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What Kills Mold?

Mold is poisonous and can be dangerous to your health, even if you are not allergic to it. Mild symptoms can include, headache, sneezing, itching, skin irritation and watery eyes. More advanced symptoms include chronic respiratory and sinus infections, lasting fatigue, vomiting and diarrhea. Prolonged mold exposure has even been linked to cancer, brain damage and death. It is important to know what causes mold to grow and how mold spores can be killed.

  1. Causes

    • Mold can grow anywhere; all it needs is moisture. This is why, most commonly, you will find mold spores in damp places such as crawl spaces, basements, bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms. These are all moisture-rich areas and provide the perfect environment for mold spores to reproduce. Although everyone is exposed to mold every day in the environment, both outside and inside, too much exposure can be harmful to your health.

    Common Killing Methods

    • Since mold spores need moisture to grow, the most common method for killing mold is to remove the moisture. Once mold is present, it is essential to kill the spores. This is often done using a common household cleaner, bleach. Mix 1/2 cup of bleach per 1 gallon of water. Using gloves and ventilation, apply to the surface where mold is growing. Scrub the area with a sponge or mop and dry thoroughly.

    Alternative Methods

    • Although effective, bleach is a harsh chemical and must be used with caution. The most widely used alternative method for killing mold is to use vinegar. This common household staple is cheap and effective. Spray a straight 5 percent solution of vinegar -- do not dilute with water -- on the affected area and let sit or scrub with a sponge; the sour smell of the vinegar will dissipate within a few hours. Tea tree oil and grapefruit extract are more expensive alternatives to bleach.

    Considerations, Prevention

    • The best method for avoiding the negative effects of mold are to prevent it. The best way to do this is by keeping your home dry and well ventilated. For example, use exhaust fans when cooking and showering -- fans should vent to the outdoors. If you think that mold may be causing you or your family to be ill, get your home tested right away and take the necessary precautions to mold-proof your home.

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