So you've discovered some mold in your home. What now? Before you start cleaning with a vengeance, you need to determine the cause of the mold. Too much moisture? A water leak? Flooding? If you clean the mold without fixing the source of the mold, it is very likely that it will return. Its probably a good idea to have a mold inspection to determine the cause if you are not sure what it is. Once you've determined the cause, you can start the mold removal process. You can either clean the mold yourself or you can schedule a mold remediation with a professional company. The main benefit of doing it yourself is that you will save a lot of money on the mold removal cost, and you can have just as successful results with visible mold. If you suspect there is mold inside your walls or ceiling, you will need to hire a professional to clean it.
What do you need?
- Plastic sheets to cover doorways and windows
- A mask to cover your nose and mouth
- 2 spray bottles
- Paper towels
- Plastic garbage bags
- General household cleaner
- Latex gloves
- 1 bucket
How do you do it?
- Mix water and household cleaner in the bucket (following specific manufacturer's instructions), and put in one of the spray bottles.
- Put warm tap water in the other spray bottle.
- Seal off the room from the rest of the house with the plastic sheets and keep children and pets away from the room.
- Put on your mask and gloves.
- Spray visible mold with the cleaner solution, working from top to bottom.
- Remove the mold with paper towels, changing them frequently and placing them in the garbage bags.
- Spray area with tap water and wipe with paper towel.
- Repeat until all mold is gone.
- Tightly tie the garbage bag and dispose of it.
For sentimental or hard-to-clean items, you should probably consider having a professional complete the mold removal process.
What can you do to prevent future mold?
- If a water leak occurs, you must act quickly. All wet items need to be dried within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
- Clean and repair gutters on a regular basis.
- Invest in one or two dehumidifiers to keep the humidity low in your house.
- If you see condensation on your windows, quickly reduce the humidity in your home.
- Increase air temperature.
- Increase airflow in your home by using fans or opening doors and windows.
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Cover cold surfaces with insulation.
