How to Kill Mold with Vinegar & Water
Household mold is one of the most prominent dangers found in homes. It has been linked to asthma, allergies, respiratory infections and may even be a contributing cause for some cancers, according to the Center for Disease Control and the American Allergy and Asthma Association. Finding and removing mold is an essential step to making your home a healthier place to live. Fortunately, killing mold with vinegar and water is both easy and effective. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Check for areas with mold. Look under the sinks, around the showers and bathtubs, in basements, under carpets and any other potentially damp area that doesn't get much light. Wear rubber gloves and a face mask for protection while looking for and getting rid of mold.
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Spray mold with straight, non-diluted vinegar that you've poured into a spray bottle. Leave the vinegar on the mold overnight, allowing it to soak in and kill the mold. Be sure to use enough vinegar to fully cover the moldy area.
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After the vinegar has worked overnight on the mold, spray more vinegar on the area and wipe it off with a paper towel. If some of the mold will not come off, use a sponge to scrub at the mold until the area is clean. Use clean paper towels to pat the area dry. Throw out the sponge if you use one.
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Prevent mold from returning by discovering what caused the mold to grow initially. Use dehumidifiers and fans to prevent mold growth in basements and other damp areas. Check sinks for leaks. Turn on the overhead fan or open a window when taking a shower. Keep the spray bottle of vinegar under the kitchen sink and regularly spray a small amount in previous problem areas to keep mold from coming back.
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Tips & Warnings
Heating the vinegar before use (be careful of burns) can help to remove stubborn mold.