How to Remove Mold From Metal
Mold is a common problem anywhere conditions (warmth and moisture) are sufficient for its growth. It can occur after flooding or simply from excessive humidity and improper ventilation. Mold grows on many surfaces, including metal. Fortunately, since metal is not porous, removing mold from metal is not difficult, and metal items can usually be salvaged, even after a flood. The sooner you remove the mold, the fewer the chances it will spread to contaminate other, less durable items. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Protective gloves N95 dust mask Soap Clean bucket Sponge Safety glasses Bleach Towel
Instructions
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Ventilate the area in which you will be cleaning the metal. Put on gloves and a protective mask.
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Fill a 2-gallon bucket with warm water and detergent. Either laundry detergent or dish detergent will work.
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Use a sponge to scrub visible mold from the metal's surface. For large areas of mold, rinse the sponge often in the warm, soapy water.
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Pour the contents of the bucket down a drain and put on your safety glasses. Rinse out the bucket and refill it with 1 gallon of water and 11/2 cups of household bleach.
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Wipe down the metal with the bleach solution. Let the solution remain on the metal for 15 minutes; this will kill remaining mold spores on the metal. Rinse it off with clean water and then dry the item with a towel.
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Tips & Warnings
Mold spores can attach to your clothing and hair during cleaning. Wear disposable clothing (some home improvement stores carry disposable jumpsuits), or launder the clothing and shower soon after cleaning up mold. If possible, clean the items outdoors and allow the metal to dry in the sunlight. Sunlight prohibits mold growth. If mold is difficult to remove with a soft sponge, use a synthetic (nylon) scouring pad. Avoid scrubbing too hard, however, or you will scratch the metal.
Mold can cause allergic reactions. Always ventilate the area and wear protective gloves and a mask when cleaning up mold. Bleach might damage some metal surfaces or finishes. Choose a mold remover/cleaner safe for metal; you can usually find these at home improvement stores.
