Another option is to use apple cider vinegar. This type of vinegar has antibacterial properties, meaning that it removes any other growths that could form in the area.
The downside to using vinegar on fabric is that it will bleach it. Vinegar can also damage the materials, so they don’t last as long as they should.
Pull Out the Tea Tree Oil
As mentioned, tea tree oil is an excellent option for DIY mold removal. It can be used on its own, directly onto the mold patches. It doesn’t matter if your material is solid or fabric, the essential oil will get deep into fibers and particles.
Tea tree oil is full of antifungal properties. While removing the spores that you can see, it will kill off every spore within the area. It can prevent new fungal patches showing up, leading to new problems.
You can apply a little tea tree oil to your skirting boards, along your windowsills and around your bath and sinks. The oil will help to prevent future spores from forming. Do this once a month or so to get the best results.
Use Ethanol on Mold Prone Areas
Ethanol is a highly effective option to get rid of all types of pests, not just mold. It smothers the fungus and any bacteria, preventing future growths.
This isn’t just a way to remove mold but a way to prevent it coming back in the future. Continue to spray diluted ethanol on mold prone areas. Do this once a week to help get into layers and particles and prevent the perfect breeding ground. This is especially beneficial in bathrooms and bedrooms. Avoid anywhere with fire, like around your gas hobs!
If you can’t get ethanol, you can create your own alcohol spray. Pour some vodka into a spray bottle and use directly on the areas. A spray bottle should last you a few months, depending on the size of your mold problem.
Use Citrus Extract
Grapefruit extract is especially beneficial for removing mold from the home, but any type of citrus extract will help. Citrus fruits are full of acid that break down bacteria and fungi, getting rid of the pests completely. You’re left with a fresh scent, which is better than using some of the options above.
This is one of the safest options when you have kids in the house. There is nothing damaging about any citrus extract and your kids can even help get rid of the problem if you’d like. With all the other treatments, you will need to keep children and pets away from the area as the treatments can be irritating for young lungs.
Dilute the extract in some water and apply to a spray bottle. Use regularly to avoid mold coming back at a later date.
Invest in a Dehumidifier
It’s time to get rid of the reason for mold growing in your home: the moisture in your home. While humidifiers are good for the skin and can help you get a better night’s sleep, too much moisture will create a breeding ground for mold spores. This is more commonly an issue in a bathroom, where the moisture from the hot shower can’t escape.
Use an extractor fan while showering and place a dehumidifier in the bathroom. Turn this on after your shower to remove the problem completely from your home.
You can still use a humidifier in your bedroom. If this is the space where you suffer the most mold, you’ll want to reconsider the use of the humidifier until the reason for the mold is fixed—usually something to do with moisture in the walls!
Remove Mold and Prevent It Coming Back
The above home remedies for mold removal won’t just get rid of the mold spores. You remove the chances of the problem coming back. These are prevention remedies that are healthy and natural. There’s no need to worry about the toxins used in the chemicals that kill off the mold spores.
The first set of treatments will have acidic and strong smells to them. You and everyone else will know that you’re using them. While they’re effective, you’ll need to consider if they’re suitable for your children and pets and for the room that you’re using them in. Citrus extract and dehumidifiers will help to eliminate strong scents and health risks.