How to Clean Mold Caused by Stagnant Water

Tip buckets outside that might have filled with water.

Stagnant water provides a needed moisture source for mold spores. Tip buckets and open containers after rainstorms to prevent excess moisture. When mold spores grow rampantly, they can decay walls, carpets, furniture, even cement mortar. Mold has a wide range of colors--from black and dark green to white. It can also appear powdery or slimy. Clean the mold as soon as you notice it to prevent damage to your home.

Things You'll Need

• Paper towels
• Bleach
• Water
• Bucket
• Face mask
• Scrubbing brush

Instructions

1. Remove the stagnant water and dry the entire area thoroughly with paper towels.

2. Mix 1 cup of bleach with 1 gallon of warm water in a bucket.

3. Don the face mask and apply the bleach water to the mold growth. As mold spores are microscopic, you need to clean the area surrounding the mold as well.

4. Let the bleach water sit for at least 20 minutes to give it time to loosen the mold growth.

5. Scrub the bleach water into the mold growth with a scrubbing brush. Scrub until the mold growth is gone.

6. Rinse the area with clear water.

7. Dry the area completely.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep bleach away from children and never mix it with ammonia.

• Do not attempt to clean mold if you have asthma or respiratory issues.

• Wear a face mask to prevent breathing in harmful mold spores.

References

• CDC: Protect Yourself From Mold
• EPA: Mold Resources