How to Neutralize Mold in a Dirt Basement
Fans
Space heater
Dehumidifier
Plastic sheeting
HEPA air purifier
Bleach
Sponges
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Things You'll Need
- A dirt-floor basement can turn into a mold-infested nightmare if not properly maintained. Mold feeds on dirt, so even if the basement is constructed of durable, mold-resistant material, mold spores will always have a source of food. This presents a problem for homeowners who want to keep their basement mold free, but if you notice mold growing in your dirt-floor basement, you can neutralize the problem with a strategic approach.
Instructions
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Increase the air circulation in the basement. Mold thrives in locations with stagnant air, so if possible, open the door or window leading outside, and turn on some fans in the room. Air out the basement for several hours before proceeding.
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Remove the existing moisture. If increased air circulation does not thoroughly dry the basement, place a dehumidifier or an electric heater in the middle of the room and turn it on until the basement dries. Dryness neutralizes mold because it cannot grow without a source of moisture.
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Cover the entire basement floor in plastic sheeting, which you can purchase from home improvement stores. This will keep the water vapor (humidity) from penetrating the soil and spreading mold throughout the basement. Keep your dirt floor covered at all times to avoid recurrences.
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Turn on a HEPA air purifier to filter the live mold spores currently in the air. Run the air purifier for several hours to ensure the removal of all airborne particles. Any air purifier will filter mold spores, but a HEPA air purifier is specially designed to filter the worst kinds of airborne impurities.
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Clean any mold that has penetrated the walls or objects in your basement. Mix 1/2 to 1 cup of bleach in a gallon of water and sponge gently over mold. Scrub the walls or objects with a damp sponge to rinse and then dry them one last time.
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Tips & Warnings
If mold covers more than 10 square feet of your basement, call a professional remediator. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention considers more than 10 square feet to be a serious hazard that is not manageable without the proper training or equipment.
