Q&A for How to Clean Black Mold

It does, but ammonia isn't necessarily the safest or most efficient choice out there. There are specialized cleaners, like concrobium, which do a much better job at killing mold.

You theoretically could, but I genuinely wouldn't recommend it. Black mold is especially dangerous, and it's much better to leave this one to the professionals if you can.

The color will clue you in. Black mold is literally black, although it may appear to be a slightly different color depending on how much light you shine on it.

It depends on how small it is. If it is only about a foot square or so, then probably not. Keep in mind, however, that if you see a little bit in an obvious place, there's probably a lot more you don't see.

You don't clean moldy drywall. Remove it and replace it with new, mold resistant drywall. Don't risk your health trying to save a few bucks. You don't want respiratory problems down the road.

Get a picture of it and take it to your local board of health and have them investigate it. They'll let your landlord know if it's black mold or not. If it is black mold, he may have to pay to get it fixed.

If you're part of it, yes. As long as the tenants are doing their jobs, the landlord is fully responsible.

You may want to consider hiring a licenced contractor to repair the damage. There may be a lot involved with the job, that could be too much for a untrained person to handle on their own.

The moisture and warmth provide a perfect environment for bacteria and plants to live in--especially if it's not regularly cleaned. The dirt and grime provide plenty of food for the mold to live off of.

Pets are also affected by black mold. If you have black mold, look out for these symptoms in your pet: lethargy, rashes, nosebleeds, runny nose or nosebleeds and joint pain. Take your pet to see a veterinarian if you think it is experiencing problems from black mold.

I would wet it down with one of the solutions mentioned to keep the mold from being airborne.

Most times, it stems from improperly maintained plumbing, or not cleaning the area at all.

Yes it is, it can be deadly to children and adults. I suggest you remove the children from the mold-infected area and either clean it yourself or call a professional to clean it.

It very well could. You can soak the bottle in bleach and boiling water, or just toss the nail polish out and buy new bottles.

It should be fine if it is dry. Consider using a dehumidifier in your cellar to keep the whole house free of excessive moisture. Mold needs moisture to grow.

You should do your research, by looking at different companies online. You can check the reviews from people that have used it before, and read about how reputable the companies are before you use them.

My state environmental department said washing in bleach and drying completely in the sunshine will kill the mold.

No, you cannot.

Yes. Skin irritation from spores is very common, and can be from either irritant contact dermatitis or allergic contact dermatitis. Use over-the-counter emollients to treat itchy and affected skin in order to soothe inflammation. Seek medical assistance if the irritation is severe or persistent, as hydrocortisone cream or similar may be required.

While black mold will not stay in your son's lungs, there is a chance your son has suffered long-term respiratory damage due to the heavy exposure of mold in the past; which may lead to him developing issues with asthma in the future. Black mold can't stay inside the body, but heavy exposure can lead to problems. See your doctor if you have any concerns.