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Homemade Remedies for Mold Removal

Mold occurs in places that are warm and moist. It is a fungus that thrives in humid conditions. If left untreated and not removed from the home, mold can become toxic, causing serious health problems such as allergies, immune deficiency, respiratory infections, body irritations, mental impairment, irritable bowel syndrome, chronic fatigue, congestion, mood swings and headaches. If you can smell the mold, it is a likely sign that air ducts and ventilation are contaminated by mold.

  1. Mold is a Fungus

    • Mold is a fungus like mushrooms that breaks down other organic compounds and uses them for food. Mold will produce spores that travel to other locations and start feeding and releasing additional spores. Soon, the contamination is widespread. It is very important to look for other areas of mold, especially in ventilation systems and air ducts. If the air ducts are contaminated or there is an area of the home that has a leak and is prone to moisture, it is vital that these things are replaced in the home to prevent serious health risks associated with mold.

    Killing and Removing the Mold

    • For small areas of contamination, boric acid will kill the fungus. Use a bit of boric acid mixed with warm water and while wearing rubber gloves, scrub the entire moldy area and then go out of the area by two or three inches in order to kill any mold that may have begun to grow, but is not yet visible.

      Another way to get rid of mold in the home is to fill a bucket with hot soapy water, and some form of anti-bacterial agent such as dish soap, 409 or Lime-A-Way. Scrub all around the mold-covered area in order to kill the fungus and prevent future contamination from developing.

      Other substances that can be used are bleach or a bleaching agent. Bleach can kill a number of germs, bacteria and viruses when used appropriately. Wear rubber gloves and a set of clothes that can be ruined in case bleach gets spilled on them. Mix the bleach with hot water and use a sponge or a scrubbing brush to scrub the moldy area. Let sit for an hour and scrub the surface again with hot water and soap.

    When to Make the Call

    • If the mold has spread in excess of 10 square feet, it is necessary to use rubber gloves, a face mask and protective eye gear. It might also be necessary to call in a professional to help deal with the mold and suggest preventative maintenance measures to avoid a large contamination again.

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