Vinegar: A Powerful and Eco-Friendly Mold Killer
Mold, a type of fungus, can quickly colonize areas with high humidity or plumbing leaks. It can cause health problems for some people, especially those with asthma or allergies. Fortunately, vinegar is an effective and non-toxic solution for killing mold.
How Vinegar Kills Mold
Vinegar contains acetic acid, which has antifungal properties. When vinegar is applied to mold, the acetic acid penetrates the mold’s cell walls and disrupts its metabolism, ultimately killing the mold spores.
Choosing the Right Vinegar for Mold Removal
For effective mold removal, vinegar with an acetic acid level of at least 4% is recommended. Distilled white vinegar typically contains around 5% acetic acid, while cleaning vinegar contains about 6%.
Steps for Removing Mold with Vinegar
Materials:
- Distilled white vinegar or cleaning vinegar
- Spray bottle
- Nylon-bristled scrub brush
- Sponge
- Bucket
- Oxygen-based bleach (optional)
Instructions:
- Protect Yourself: Wear gloves, an N-95 mask, and eye protection to avoid exposure to mold spores.
- Ventilate the Area: Open windows and doors to improve air circulation and reduce the risk of inhaling mold spores.
- Apply the Vinegar: Pour undiluted vinegar into a spray bottle and label it. Spray the moldy surface liberally and allow it to sit for at least one hour.
- Rinse the Surface: Dip a sponge in clean water and wipe down the surface to remove the vinegar. For vertical surfaces, start at the top and work downward to avoid drips.
- Inspect for Discoloration: If the mold has left stains on grout or other finishes, use oxygen-based bleach to remove them. Mix one-half cup of bleach in two quarts of warm water and apply it to the discolored areas. Allow it to work for 30 minutes, then rinse with clean water.
- Dry the Surface: Allow the freshly cleaned surfaces to air-dry completely.
Tips for Using Vinegar on Different Surfaces
- Stone: Avoid using vinegar on stone surfaces such as marble, granite, and limestone, as the acid in vinegar can damage the sealant and dissolve calcium carbonate.
- Wood: Vinegar can damage the protective finish on wooden surfaces.
- Electronic Screens: Never use vinegar on touch screens, as it can interfere with the anti-glare filter and touch responsiveness.
- Metals: Avoid using vinegar on aluminum, copper, and stainless steel.
- Porous Surfaces: Vinegar is less effective on porous surfaces such as ceiling tiles and carpets.
Other Uses of Vinegar for Mold Control
- Treating Mold on Clothes: Mix one cup of vinegar with the hottest water recommended on the care label and add it to the washer load. For stubborn stains, soak the clothes in a solution of oxygen bleach and water for at least eight hours.
- Cleaning Leather: Wipe down the surface of leather clothes, shoes, and purses with distilled white vinegar. After removing the mold, use a leather soap and conditioner.
- Preventing Mold Growth: Keep surfaces clean and free of moisture to inhibit mold growth. Use a dehumidifier to reduce humidity levels in your home.
When to Call a Professional
If the mold colony covers an area larger than 10 square feet, it’s best to contact a professional mold removal company. They can test and identify the type of mold present and recommend the appropriate treatment.