How to Get Rid of Black Mold Infestation

Wear gloves when using bleach to clean mold.

While there’s no way to eliminate all mold in our homes, take measures to make the environment less hospitable for black mold. Black mold can trigger allergic reactions in mold-sensitive people, who can develop hay fever-like symptoms. It can also cause asthma-like attacks for those with mold allergies. Clean any mold outbreak in your home to limit your family’s exposure to black mold and develop a plan to make your environment unwelcoming for mold.

Things You'll Need

• Dehumidifier
• Bleach
• Spray bottle
• Sponge
• Scrub brushes

Instructions

1. Reduce the humidity in your home by using fans or purchasing a dehumidifier. Maintain indoor relative humidity at between 30 and 50 percent. Mold thrives in damp, humid environments.

2. Check all sinks and drain areas around the home for leaks and standing water. Repair any leaks and redirect drains away from the home.

3. Increase ventilation and air movement in the house. When showering or bathing, run vent fans and open a window, if possible, to remove moisture from the air. Check all vented appliances to ensure that the warm air they produce is being vented outside the home.

4. Clean existing mold with a simple solution. Dilute 1/2 cup of chlorine bleach in 1 gallon of water. Pour into a spray bottle as needed.

5. Spray on surfaces with black mold. Allow the mixture to penetrate for 10 to 15 minutes then wipe off with a damp sponge and dry completely. Use a scrub brush or toothbrush to clean tough stains or to reach into tight corners and small places.

References

• EPA: A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture, and Your Home
• CDC: Facts about Stachybotrys chartarum and Other Molds