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Mold is a phenomenon
that affects many homes and can even grow in your home without you knowing it. This is because mold develops in damp, warm and dark places that are often not visible. Once installed, mold is difficult to eliminate and if all the conditions are met, it can develop very quickly, sometimes within 24/48 hours. Therefore, if you do not treat the problem in time, risks of respiratory diseases, asthma or allergies can arise.
Check out our tips on how to get rid of mold and prevent it from reappearing, as it can not only damage your home but also cause health problems.
How to get rid of mold in your home?
Diluted bleach: Sarah Dempsey, a British cleaning expert, told the Express newspaper that households could use diluted bleach sold in stores to remove traces of mold. Nevertheless, this chemical should be avoided on certain surfaces, she added.
If you prefer to use this potentially toxic product, be sure to wear protective gloves during the action and ventilate the room sufficiently. Then let the product act and wipe it off.
White vinegar :
The other, less chemical and equally effective solution is to use a vinegar solution instead. White vinegar cleans, deodorizes and disinfects thanks to its acetic acid content. Whether on a porous or non-porous surface, vinegar can also kill 82% of mold species, including black mold.
Pour undiluted white vinegar into a spray bottle without adding water as this reduces its effectiveness. Then spray the vinegar on the moldy surface and leave it to act for an hour. Finally, rinse the infected area with water and let it dry. Although the vinegar smell disappears after just a few hours, it is possible to add a few drops of essential oils in a scent of your choice such as lavender or lemon if the smell of vinegar bothers you.
Baking Soda :
This multi-purpose product around the house can also help you eliminate black mold and absorb excess moisture in affected rooms. One of the benefits of this product is that it is safe for your family and pets.
Add ¼ tablespoon of baking soda to a spray bottle filled with water and shake until the solution is homogenous. Then spray the moldy surface with the solution, use a scrub brush to remove the mold, and rinse the surface with water to remove any product residue. Finally, spray the area again and let it dry without wiping. This will also prevent mold from returning.
For stubborn black mold, mix two parts baking soda with one part water and one part white vinegar and stir until a thick paste forms. Spread the paste generously over the affected area and let it dry. Then scrub the mold and stains and rinse with water.
Tea tree oil:
Natural essential oils can be used in much more than just aromatherapy. Tea tree oil, for example, is an antiseptic, deodorant and insect repellent. This natural fungicide can thus be used against black mold.
Mix a teaspoon of tea tree oil with a cup of water in a spray bottle and shake vigorously to mix the water with the oil. Then spray on the moldy surface, let it dry for an hour and finally wipe it with a microfiber cloth or a dry towel. Don’t forget to wear protective gloves as some people may have sensitive skin when in contact with essential oils.
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