How to Remove Mold & Mildew Odors

Mold and mildew has a distinctive musty smell that can irritate respiratory systems, exacerbate allergies and promote a general aura of unpleasantness in the home. To remove mold and mildew odors, the only effective method is to eliminate it at its source. Once mold and mildew has been cleaned up, it is equally important to control the environment in order to prevent future accumulation.

Things You'll Need

• White distilled vinegar
• Spray bottle
• Sponge
• Baking soda
• Rag
• Humidity sensor
• Dehumidifier

Instructions

Locating Mold and Mildew

1. Locate the mildew or mold buildup by checking common areas conducive to mold growth. High humidity in dark, cool areas with poor air flow are prime areas for mildew and mold to accumulate.

2. Check in the bathroom. Look above the shower head, behind and around toilets, along bathroom caulking and within the exhaust fan (may require a screwdriver to remove).

3. Look in the basement. Check along walls, in window sills, in crawl spaces, in closets, near drains and appliances and other areas that may be exposed to moisture.

4. Search common areas in other rooms. Look beneath carpets, rugs and floorboards. Move furniture away from the wall and check along the baseboards. Remove air vents and check the insides of the ducts. Look for discoloration in walls or ceiling tiles, as these often hide mold.

Cleaning Mold and Mildew

1. Fill a spray bottle with white distilled vinegar.

2. Spray the area with vinegar, covering it completely.

3. Let stand for 10 to 15 minutes.

4. Scrub mold with a wet sponge sprinkled with baking soda.

5. Wipe away residue and debris with a wet rag. Discard rag.

Preventing Mold and Mildew

1. Install a humidity sensor. Check to make sure your relative humidity level stays below 55 percent.

2. Utilize one or more dehumidifiers. In rooms with high humidity, run a dehumidifier.

3. Waterproof basement bricks and seal windows. You can purchase sealant for bricks and windows at the hardware store.

4. Ventilate crawl spaces, attics and other areas with low air flow. You may need to install a fan in your attic to draw moist air out of your home.

References

• InspectAPedia: Mold Information Center

Resources

• The Cleaning Frenzy Mold Removal Task Force