How to Remove Mold on Bathroom Walls Before Painting
Because of the high humidity from showering, the bathroom is the most common place in the house to find mold. If you are getting ready to paint your bathroom, all mold must be removed; it is a health hazard, carrying allergens and germs that can easily spread to humans. Mold will also prevent the paint from binding effectively with the wall itself. Before painting, take the time to thoroughly remove all mold from your bathroom walls. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Protective gloves
- Water
- Bleach or vinegar
- Spray bottle
- Scrub brush or sponge
- Soap
Instructions
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Put on your protective gloves. Mix one part bleach to three parts water in a spray bottle. Bleach is the most effective agent for killing mold. Remember that bleach will stain clothing and is harmful if ingested, so take precautions when working with bleach. For an alternative, vinegar will also kill mold, but it requires more time and is not as thorough. Do not mix vinegar with water if you choose to use this alternative; pour undiluted white vinegar into the spray bottle.
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Spray your cleaning mixture onto the affected areas of your bathroom walls. Allow time for the cleaner to react with the mold, generally at least 10 minutes. Scrub away the mold with a scrub brush or sponge. Reapply the cleaner and repeat scrubbing as necessary until all mold is gone.
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Rinse the wall thoroughly with clean water to remove any residual chemicals. Remember that the bleach will slide down the wall once it has been sprayed on, so be sure to rinse the entire wall with the clean water, not just the areas you scrubbed. Use mild detergent such as dish soap to help remove the bleach, as well as any dirt remaining on the wall.
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Tips & Warnings
Remember that mold grows in moist, humid areas. Killing mold once will not prevent it from returning. Increase ventilation by opening a door or window or using an exhaust fan to avoid mold growth on your bathroom walls. Some paints include anti-mildew agents to prevent mold from growing on the wall beneath the paint. If you have consistent problems with mold on the bathroom walls, consider using this type of product when you paint the walls.
Always wear protective gloves when working with chemicals such as bleach.
