Basement Mold Control: Expert Tips on Removal and Prevention

How To Remove Basement Mold Growth?

Mold does not look good - but also, they are unhealthy. No doubt - homeowners want to get rid of them and never want them to gather in the home. Here are some simple ways to remove mold and ensure they don’t come back.

Here are certain materials and ingredients that can help remove mold easily -

• Hydrogen Peroxide
• Baking Soda
• Vinegar
• Bleach
• Soap

All these materials are effective in mold removal. Also, they will help stop mold spores from spreading throughout your house. Moreover, be sure you use fans or open windows to ventilate the area.

The first thing you need to do is - identify and eliminate any mold-damaged objects. Any materials that are afflicted with mold should be carefully removed with a pry bar so as not to harm adjacent regions. After those items have been discarded - it's time to deal with the mold on surfaces.

Mold can be successfully removed at home using a number of different methods. Here are a few choices -

1. Bleach

Bleach can kill molds instantly. However, the problem with bleach is - it’s not useful for porous surfaces, such as - wood and tiles. 

Mix one part bleach with ten parts water to get a solution. Because bleach can damage your skin and lungs, always wear gloves and a mask when working with it. Use a brush or sponge to gently scrub the afflicted areas, then give them a good rinse with water.

Pro Tip: Never mix bleach with ammonia - as it will result in the release of toxic chlorine gas. 

2. Vinegar

It is the safest way to kill molds in your basement. But ensure not to clean wood or stones (marble, granite, limestone countertops) with vinegar. Also, you might need to scrub the stains and discoloration that molds might leave behind. 

In a spray bottle, combine equal parts water and white vinegar. Spray the solution of 6% acetic acid and 94% water to the moldy areas. Leave them for approximately an hour. Use a brush or sponge to clean the mold off, and rinse the area with water. 

You may also make a solution of baking soda and vinegar to get rid of the mold and mildew effectively. 

Note: Vinegar does not kill 100% of mold. So, it is advisable to test on a small surface. 

3. Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a powerful cleaner and fungicide. It is best for removing mold from concrete and brick walls. CDC (Centers For Disease Control And Prevention) says that it has the potential to kill bacteria, viruses, fungi, and even mold spores - due to its antimicrobial properties. 

Pour 3% hydrogen peroxide into a spray bottle, spray it on the surface and let it sit for up to 30 minutes. Scrub with a bristle brush to remove mold from the pores. Then, rinse and dry thoroughly to prevent regrowth. 

Pro Tip: You can use warm water to remove any cling-on mold spores, after scrubbing with hydrogen peroxide solution. 

4. Baking Soda

Baking soda is used to control fungi and is one natural cleaning agent that is available easily in every household. Its potency has proven to be effective in killing molds and mildew from any surface. Also, it neutralizes the odor and can remove any dirt, grime, or stain left by molds.

To make a paste, mix one part baking soda with two parts water. Let the moldy surfaces sit for at least fifteen minutes after applying this mixture. After the mold has had a chance to grow, use a brush or sponge to scrub it off and then rinse the area with water.

5. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is a potent and natural ingredient for killing mold. It is the healthy way to kil molds and also leaves your basement smelling good. Also, it is environment and pet-friendly. Also, it is favored by environmentally friendly advocates - and opted over bleach and other corrosive solutions. 

Blend 1 tsp of tea tree oil with 1 cup of water - spray and leave it. There’s no need to rinse, as you are using only one part of tea tree oil, and most of the solution is just water. If you have visible mold, scrub it with a sponge or rag soaked in the solution and leave it to prevent regrowth. 

Note: Use caution when handling pets, as they can be toxic.

6. Borax

Borax has cleaning and deodorizing properties - which are also effective in killing molds. Before you use borax, vacuum the surface with a HEPA-certified vacuum. This minimizes the number of spores that become airborne. 

Mix borax with water to create a cleaning solution. Spray on the moldy surface and leave it for at least 20-30 minutes. Scrub it off with a bristle brush and then rinse it thoroughly to prevent any growth in the future. 

7. Get Professional Help

Black mold, or Stachybotrys chartarum, can be harmful if inhaled in large amounts. While some cleaners can remove it, severe infestations require professional help, possibly including fumigation. Professional mold remediation can help you easily remove mold spores and roots, preventing regrowth. 

Professionals advise using dehumidifiers and waterproofing paint to help prevent future issues. Also, severely mold-damaged materials like carpeting or drywall usually need replacement to fully resolve the problem.

Pro Tip: Thoroughly check your basement for leaks, moisture accumulation, or inadequate ventilation, and fix any issues to stop mold from growing there in the future.