How to get rid of MOLD? | DON’T use bleach!
- Identify the source of moisture. Mold needs moisture to survive, so the first step is to identify the source of the moisture and fix it. This could be a leaky pipe, a condensation problem, or a flood.
- Remove the mold. Once you’ve identified the source of moisture, you can start removing the mold. There are a few different ways to do this:
- Use a bleach solution. Mix one cup of bleach with one gallon of water. Apply the solution to the moldy area with a sponge or brush. Let the solution sit for 10 minutes, then scrub the area clean. Rinse the area with water and allow it to dry completely.
- Use a mold remover. There are a number of commercial mold removers available. Follow the instructions on the product label.
- Scrub the mold away with a brush and soapy water. This is the least effective method, but it may be sufficient for small areas of mold.
- Ventilate the area. Once you’ve removed the mold, it’s important to ventilate the area to prevent it from coming back. Open windows and doors, or use a fan to circulate the air.
- Dry the area completely. Moisture is the key to mold growth, so it’s important to make sure the area is completely dry before you’re finished. Use a fan or dehumidifier to help speed up the drying process.
- Dispose of contaminated materials properly. Any materials that were contaminated with mold should be disposed of properly. This includes clothing, furniture, and other belongings. You can bag up the contaminated materials and put them in the trash, or you can take them to a hazardous waste disposal facility.
It’s important to note that if the mold is extensive or if you have a respiratory condition, you may want to hire a professional mold remediation company to remove the mold for you.