The question of how to get rid of black mold is asked by many homeowners seeking black mold removal. Black mold can grow on anything porous, that is, anything permeable by water. Some of the most common building materials in a home that fit into this category include: wood, cement, paper, clothing, wallpaper, and ceiling tiles. Additionally, it is very common to uncover black mold growing on gypsum board, better known as ‘drywall’, which is a key component in any home construction project. If upon thorough inspection of your home you find even the smallest black mold infestation, it is important you know how to get rid of black mold, and take action immediately.
Because dampness and darkness are the primary culprits of black mold, the first step in understanding how to get rid of black mold is to begin drying your place. One of the most efficient ways is with a dehumidification unit, which can be found at most home improvement stores or even major department stores, such as Walmart. The purpose of a dehumidifier is to reduce the level of moisture or humidity inside of your home. Please note, however, that it is important to empty the water collection bucket often as mold can begin to grow in it over time. A dehumidifier is even more important while running air conditioning or heating units and visible moisture building up on window panes is present.
While using a dehumidification unit is the first step in reducing moisture and humidity in your home, repairing any water leaks in areas such as your kitchen or bathroom is very important to preventing further development and growth as well. Further, purchasing an air filtration unit can make a big impact on the overall air quality in your home as well. Air filtration units or purifies, especially those which use HEPA filters, can remove up to 99.97% of contaminants – in this case, mold spores – from the air, further preventing black mold growth before it starts. These units can make mold removal costly, however, so it is worth taking the time to find the best deal possible.
The next step in getting rid of black mold is extremely important. First, purchase disposable cleaning supplies, as well as a pair of non-porous rubber gloves and a face mask. Next, fill one 24oz spray bottle with a mixture of distilled white vinegar and detergent, and another with plain water. Note: Bleach is NOT recommended for black mold removal, as it can produce harmful toxins (toxic black mold), and is only a temporary fix. Next, spray the moldy area with the vinegar and detergent mixture, making sure the area is wet, but not drenched. Once you spray a small section, use a firm brush to scrub the black mold, and wipe with a rag when finished. Lastly, spray the area with clear water and wipe with a rag or paper towel. Dispose of all materials in a tightly sealed plastic back before discarding.
These steps can and should be repeated for any non-porous area of your home where black mold is present. If you encounter mold on other surfaces such as carpeting, furniture, or upholstery, it is best to remove the items completely, as even professional steam cleaning will fall short in removing all mold spores. Therefore, the optimal course of action for proper remediation is to get rid of the moldy materials, clean the other areas that were exposed to them, and replace them with new materials all together. While it is impossible to completely get rid of mold from your environment, having a thorough understanding of how to get rid of black mold will help you avoid the devastating damages to your home and further minimize negative effects to your health.
