To get rid of black mold effectively, follow these steps using common household cleaners and safety precautions:
Preparation and Safety
- Identify and fix the source of moisture causing mold growth (leaks, humidity, etc.).
- Ventilate the area by opening windows and doors but seal off doorways to prevent spore spread.
- Wear protective gear: rubber gloves, eye protection, a face mask or respirator, and old clothes.
- Turn off HVAC systems to avoid spreading spores
Cleaning Methods
Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda Paste
- Mix 1 part hydrogen peroxide (3%-10%) with 2 parts baking soda to form a paste.
- Apply the paste to moldy areas and let it sit for 30 minutes.
- Scrub with a nylon-bristled brush, rinse with water, and dry thoroughly.
- Repeat if necessary
Vinegar
- Spray undiluted distilled white vinegar directly on the mold.
- Let it sit for at least an hour without rinsing.
- Scrub and rinse if needed.
- Vinegar kills mold but works slower and may leave discoloration
Bleach Solution (Use with Caution)
- Mix 1 cup bleach with 1 gallon of water.
- Apply with a sponge or mop to moldy surfaces.
- Let it sit for 15 minutes, then scrub and rinse.
- Bleach is effective but produces harmful fumes and can irritate skin and lungs, so use only in well-ventilated areas and avoid mixing with other chemicals
Other Natural Options
- Tea tree oil: Mix 2 teaspoons with 2 cups water, spray, and let sit.
- Borax: Mix half a cup with water to form a paste, apply, scrub, and rinse.
- Baking soda solution: Mix 1 teaspoon with 2 cups water, spray, scrub, rinse, then spray again and let dry
After Cleaning
- Dry the cleaned area thoroughly using fans or dehumidifiers to prevent mold return.
- Dispose of contaminated cleaning materials safely.
- Wash clothing worn during cleanup in hot water to kill spores
Notes
- Never mix cleaning chemicals like bleach and hydrogen peroxide as it can create dangerous gases.
- For porous materials heavily infested with mold (carpet, ceiling tiles), removal and replacement may be necessary
This approach combines effective mold removal with safety and prevention of recurrence. If mold covers a large area or health symptoms develop, professional remediation may be required.
