Avoid using bleach on walls since it won’t reach mold that’s deeper than the surface.
Don’t worry about the vinegar smell. It will disappear as soon as it completely dries. If the room doesn’t get good ventilation or airflow, set up a box fan pointed at the wall and let it run for 24 hours. Vinegar kills up to 80% of mold species. [3] X Expert Source Mike KapurCertified Mold Assessor & Home Inspector, Sonic Home Inspections Expert Interview. 19 August 2020.
Don’t leave moldy drywall up since it could keep spreading inside your walls.
Immediately throw the vacuum bag away or empty the canister into a plastic bag outside.
This works best on stained or painted wood since the mold doesn’t penetrate past the surface.
If there’s still stubborn mold, take 100-grit sandpaper and rub out the affected section of wood.
Mold may be deeper in the cushions or batting of upholstered furniture, so a vacuum may not work on it’s own. You can try cleaning it further or replacing the furniture entirely.
Try moving your piece of furniture outside to clean if it’s sunny. The sunlight helps dry the piece faster and also prevents mold spores from spreading in your home. [10] X Research source
It can be really difficult to save furniture that’s moldy or water-damaged, so sometimes, replacing it is the best option.
If you’re worried about damaging the fabric, test your vacuum on a small inconspicuous area first.
If you can’t put the fabric in your machine, like if you have mold on a carpet, then instead have someone professionally shampoo or clean them. Mold can cause stains or permanent damage to fabric.
If you want to paint over an area you completely cleaned, opt for mold-resistant paint to help prevent mold growth in the future. [15] X Research source
If you have a dirt crawlspace, install a plastic cover to keep moisture from coming up from the ground. Sometimes, water can come in if your landscaping slopes toward your home. Contact a landscaping service to help correct this issue.
Avoid keeping carpet or upholstery in any room that you can’t easily ventilate since mold will form more easily.
You’ll typically find mildew in places with high humidity, such as basements, windowsills, and bathrooms.
Mold also has a pungent musty odor, so it’s easy to detect.
You should also hire a professional if the area was exposed to sewage or you can’t find the mold on your own.
Protective gear also helps protect you from fumes created by the cleaning supplies you use.
