How to Get Rid of Mold & Mildew: Expert-Backed Tips

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Remove mold from walls, fabrics, and other surfaces
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If you smell musty odors or see unsightly spots growing on walls or furniture, you might be dealing with mold or mildew. While it’s really common to encounter mold, it can cause a lot of trouble if you leave it untreated. Luckily, it’s easy to treat with commercial mold cleaners or natural solutions. For this article, we interviewed mold inspector Mike Kapur to teach you how to remove mold from different surfaces and prevent it from coming back. Plus, learn when to hire a pro and get answers to other common questions about mold and mildew.

How to Kill Mold and Mildew

  1. Put on goggles, an N-95 mask, and rubber gloves to protect yourself.
  2. Choose your preferred cleaner, such as bleach, vinegar, or ammonia.
  3. Spray the cleaner onto the mold and let it sit per your cleaner’s instructions.
  4. Scrub the moldy area with a brush or cloth.
  5. Rinse the area if necessary and allow it to dry completely.
Section 1 of 7:

How to Remove Mold & Mildew

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  1. Prolonged exposure to mold can cause health problems, so make sure you’re protected. Get safety goggles that completely cover your eyes and are tight to your skin so the spores don’t cause eye irritation. Since the spores can damage your respiratory system, fit an N-95 respirator over your mouth and nose and make sure it sits tightly against your skin. Finally, wear some rubber gloves so you don’t get any mold on your skin. [1]
    • Protective gear also helps protect you from fumes created by the cleaning supplies you use.
  2. For the best results, purchase a commercial mold cleaner and follow its instructions to remove the mold. However, it’s also possible to make your own mold-cleaning solution with household ingredients, such as common cleaners or natural products. [2] Here are a few ways you can make your own cleaning solution:
    • Undiluted white vinegar : Use undiluted white vinegar by itself for a natural solution. This is best used for hard surfaces in kitchens and bathrooms. Apply it directly to the mold and let it sit for an hour before wiping it away with a cloth.
    • Bleach: For something stronger, mix one cup of bleach in a gallon of water. Apply it to the surface, and don’t rinse it off.
    • Ammonia: Mix a 50/50 solution of ammonia and water and spray it on the surface. Let it sit for 2-3 hours, then rinse and repeat if necessary.
    • Hydrogen peroxide: Apply 3% hydrogen peroxide to hard surfaces and let it sit for 10 minutes. Then, scrub it off with a cloth or brush and wipe the surface clean with a dry rag. Repeat as necessary.
    • Baking soda solution : Mix 2 parts baking soda, 1 part white vinegar, and 1 part water in a spray bottle. Apply it directly to the mold and let it sit for 10 minutes before scrubbing with a brush or cloth.
    • Warning: Never mix ammonia with bleach or other all-purpose cleaners, as this will create toxic fumes. [3]
    • See which mold-removal methods other wikiHow readers think are effective in our "How do I safely kill mold?" forum .
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  3. Apply your cleaner to the moldy area (usually using a spray bottle) and let it sit for as long as necessary per its instructions. Use a brush to work the solution into hard surfaces and a cloth to clean porous surfaces, like drywall, so you don’t damage it. Repeat as necessary until the mold has been removed, and allow the area to dry completely. [4]
    • Reader Poll: We asked 19 just like you a simple question: what's the best chemical solution for cleaning white mold? Their options were…
      • Bleach and water
      • Borax and water
      • Baking soda and water
      • 3% hydrogen peroxide
      • Undiluted, distilled white vinegar

        …And 12 readers agreed that undiluted, distilled white vinegar is the best way to remove white mold for good. That means that 63% of real people just like you swear by that DIY method. The more you know!
  4. Mold spores easily spread through the air, so it’s important to remove anything that touched the mold or mildew after you’ve cleaned your surface. Clean any tools you used with soap and hot water or rubbing alcohol, and soak any brushes in a bleach solution for an hour. Seal any used rags, gloves, and other moldy materials in a garbage bag and throw them away outside. [5]
    • Wash the clothes you were wearing immediately. Use hot water, and don’t wash any other items with them.
    • Make sure all your tools, brushes, and clothes are completely dry before storing them.
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Section 2 of 7:

Removing Mold & Mildew from Walls

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  1. To remove mold from walls , put either 3% hydrogen peroxide or a solution of 2 parts baking soda, 1 part white vinegar, and 1 part water into a spray bottle. Apply your solution directly onto the wall that has mold or mildew on it. Wait at least 10 minutes for the solution to work before scrubbing it off in circular motions with a medium-bristle brush. [6]
    • Avoid using bleach on walls since it won’t reach mold that’s deeper than the surface.
  2. Since the mold may have grown into the drywall, it will come back if you leave it untreated. Put white vinegar into a spray bottle and liberally apply it to the entire area you just cleaned. Leave the vinegar to air-dry and disinfect the area so the mold doesn’t return. Vinegar actually kills up to 80% of mold species! [7]
    • Don’t worry about the vinegar smell. It will disappear as soon as it completely dries.
    • If the room doesn’t get good ventilation or airflow, set up a box fan pointed at the wall and let it run for 24 hours.
  3. After you clean the drywall, gently push on it with your fingers. If it easily moves or feels soft, the mold may be a larger issue, and you won’t be able to fix it. Take out the drywall that’s affected and check if the wall framing has mold. Clean any other mold you find before installing a new piece of drywall . [8]
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Section 3 of 7:

Removing Mold & Mildew from Fabrics

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  1. If the affected clothing or fabrics can be washed, toss them in the washing machine and wash them with detergent and hot water. Then, hang them outside to air-dry. If they’re dry clean only, take them to the dry cleaners as soon as possible. [10]
    • Alternatively, wet the mildew-affected area of the fabric and rub a small amount of powdered laundry detergent into it. Wash it with 1/2 cup of chlorine bleach in hot water.
    • If the stains remain on the fabric, try moistening the affected area with lemon juice and salt, then rinse it thoroughly.
  2. Mix a 1:1 ratio of rubbing alcohol and water, and dip a cloth into the solution. Rub the cloth on the leather surface to remove the mildew, then allow the item to dry in a well-ventilated area. Apply a leather conditioner to protect the leather’s surface once it’s completely dry. [11]
    • Optionally add a drop of mild detergent to the mixture for extra cleaning power.
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Section 4 of 7:

Removing Mold & Mildew from Other Surfaces

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  1. To remove mold from wood , first use the hose attachment on a vacuum with a HEPA filter to vacuum up any loose spores on the wood’s surface. Mix a few drops of mild liquid dish soap with warm water in a bucket until suds form. Dip a soft-bristle brush into the mixture and gently work the soap into the wood. Work in circular movements to scrub away any mold that’s still left on the surface. This method works best on stained or painted wood since the mold doesn’t penetrate past the surface. [12]
    • Immediately throw the vacuum bag away or empty the canister into a plastic bag outside.
    • For deep mold penetration, mix equal parts vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle. Spray it over the mold and let it sit for an hour before wiping it away with a moist towel.
    • Alternatively, mix 1 tablespoon (1.73 g) of Borax with 1 cup (240 ml) of water and spread it on the mold with a soft brush. Let it dry completely on the wood.
    • If there’s still stubborn mold, take 100-grit sandpaper and rub out the affected section of wood.
  2. First, use a hose attachment on a vacuum to remove as much visible mold growth as possible. Add a few drops of mild laundry detergent or dish soap to a bucket of water. Dip a soft-bristle brush into the suds only (not the water) and gently work the suds into the moldy section of your furniture. Wipe the suds off with a clean, damp cloth and let the furniture air-dry completely. [13]
    • Try moving your piece of furniture outside to clean if it’s sunny. The sunlight helps dry the piece faster and also prevents mold spores from spreading in your home. [14]
    • If the furniture has a musty smell even after you clean it, the mold is likely deep within the cushions or fabric. You can try cleaning it again, but in many cases, the furniture will need to be replaced.
    • Empty your vacuum outside so you don’t spread the mold spores in your home again.
  3. If there is mold on your siding, deck, or other outdoor surfaces, mix a 1:10 bleach and water solution in a sprayer and liberally spray it on the affected surface. Let the solution sit for 10-20 minutes, then scrub the mold stains with a stiff-bristle brush dipped into the bleach solution. Rinse the area with a garden hose or power washer when you’re done. [15]
  4. Absorbent or porous materials, such as ceiling tiles or carpet, may need to be thrown out if they become moldy. While you can attempt to clean these surfaces, mold will likely grow in the empty spaces and crevices of the material, making it difficult or impossible to remove. [16]
    • If there’s something you want to save, it may be best to hire a professional mold remediation service. They can better determine if it’s possible to remove the mold.
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Section 5 of 7:

When to Hire a Professional

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  1. The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) says that if the moldy area is less than 10 square feet (0.93 m 2 ), you can generally handle clean-up yourself. Anything larger than that, however, is best left to the professionals, as they have the tools and equipment necessary to tackle large areas. It’s also best to hire pros if there is a lot of water damage or if the area was exposed to sewage. [17]
    • If you hire a contractor, make sure they have experience cleaning mold.
  2. Exposure to mold can sometimes cause health problems, especially for those who are immune-compromised, have respiratory issues (like asthma or COPD), or are allergic to mold. If you react negatively around mold or mildew, do not attempt to clean it yourself. Hire a professional and try to stay away from the area until the problem has been taken care of. [18]
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Section 6 of 7:

Preventing Mold & Mildew

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  1. Mold and mildew thrive in moisture, so check that you don’t have any leaks or standing water in your home. If you find any, hire a plumber to fix them for you so you don’t have to worry about mold developing again. If you have a larger problem where moisture gathers, like an unfinished basement, you may need to install waterproofing as well to keep moisture out. [19]
    • If you have a dirt crawlspace, install a plastic cover to keep moisture from coming up from the ground.
    • Sometimes, water can come in if your landscaping slopes toward your home. Contact a landscaping service to help correct this issue.
  2. Whenever you’re in a room that has high humidity (such as a bathroom, laundry room, or kitchen), run a ventilation fan or open a window to increase air circulation. Use fans, air conditioners, or dehumidifiers to get good airflow and decrease humidity levels. Because mold thrives in moist conditions, this will help prevent it from growing . [20]
    • Avoid keeping carpet or upholstery in any room that you can’t easily ventilate since mold will form more easily.
    • To help prevent mold, Kapur says, “Reduce the humidity inside the home… Mold hates any kind of air movement, so [use a] dehumidifier because it constantly takes in air and spews it out. A dehumidifier will go a long way to prevent mold issues.” [21]
  3. Mold has a much tougher time growing if you’re consistently cleaning areas where it could form. Make a routine to clean your home at least once a week. Focus on areas that have high humidity or moisture levels, especially in your laundry room, bathroom , and kitchen. Use an anti-fungal cleaner at least once a month to help kill spores. [22]
  4. If you have mold problems outside your home, like on your deck, make sure there is no standing water. Keep your gutters and downspouts clean, and ensure rainwater drains away from your house’s foundation properly. [24]
    EXPERT TIP

    Mike Kapur

    Certified Mold Assessor & Home Inspector, Sonic Home Inspections
    Mike Kapur is a home inspector and the owner of Sonic Home Inspections, a home inspection company in Westchester, New York. With over 15 years of experience in pre-inspecting properties, Mike specializes in mold, radon, asbestos, lead, water, and air quality testing as well as hazardous materials, pest, infrared, and general home inspections. Prior to founding Sonic Home Inspections, Mike worked pre-inspecting apartments. Mike holds a BS in Accounting from Queens College and is a Certified Mold Assessor in the state of New York.
    Mike Kapur
    Certified Mold Assessor & Home Inspector, Sonic Home Inspections

    Keep your exterior deck sealed to prevent mold. Mold entrenches itself on the substrate it’s going on, so if you completely seal the deck on the outside, the mold will be easier to remove. Make sure the deck isn’t shaded by a tree so there’ll be enough air circulation and sunshine to dry away moisture.

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Section 7 of 7:

Removing Mold & Mildew FAQs

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  1. Kapur says, “All mildew is mold. Not all mold is mildew.” [25] Mildew is usually white or gray and has a dry or powdery texture. It doesn’t penetrate deep into materials, so it’s easier to clean than mold. Other types of mold typically look slimy or fuzzy and can be different colors, like green, red, blue, or black. These molds penetrate deeper into materials and can be more dangerous, as exposure can lead to headaches, skin irritation, and respiratory issues if left untreated. [26]
  2. Mold and mildew grow when mold spores land on wet surfaces. It frequently grows in moist and poorly-ventilated areas, such as windowsills, bathrooms, and crawl spaces. This is why it’s important to keep all areas of your home clean and moisture-free, as this will prevent mold from growing. [28]
  3. If the mold covers less than 10 square feet (0.93 m 2 ), you can usually clean it yourself with a commercial mold cleaner or household materials. If the area is larger than 10 square feet (0.93 m 2 ), the mold will be too difficult to remove on your own, and it’s recommended that you hire a mold specialist or professional cleaner. If you’re immune-compromised or allergic to mold, it’s best to hire a professional regardless of how large the area is. [29]
    • If you clean the mold yourself, make sure to wear the appropriate PPE, such as gloves, a mask, and protective eyewear.
    • You should also hire a professional if the area was exposed to sewage or if you can’t find the mold on your own.
  4. No, mold and mildew can keep growing under the paint. Always treat the mold completely before refinishing the surface you found it on. Since the paint traps the mold underneath, it could still grow in your walls or cause the paint to peel. [30]
  5. Mold spores are always present in the air, so mold is always present to some degree. However, large moldy spots can be permanently removed with natural or chemical cleaners. Kapur says many household products kill mold: “You can use vinegar; you can use diluted bleach; you can pretty much use any household cleaners that have moldicide in them.” [32] Keep the area moisture-free to prevent future mold growth.
    • Do not mix any chemicals or cleaners together unless you know it is safe to do so.
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How Do You Remove Mold From A Wall?


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  • Question
    Is bleach or vinegar better to kill mold?
    Mike Kapur
    Certified Mold Assessor & Home Inspector, Sonic Home Inspections
    Mike Kapur is a home inspector and the owner of Sonic Home Inspections, a home inspection company in Westchester, New York. With over 15 years of experience in pre-inspecting properties, Mike specializes in mold, radon, asbestos, lead, water, and air quality testing as well as hazardous materials, pest, infrared, and general home inspections. Prior to founding Sonic Home Inspections, Mike worked pre-inspecting apartments. Mike holds a BS in Accounting from Queens College and is a Certified Mold Assessor in the state of New York.
    Mike Kapur
    Certified Mold Assessor & Home Inspector, Sonic Home Inspections
    Expert Answer
    Both work just as well to clean mold, so spray some on and try scrubbing the mold away.
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    I have small amount of mold on a wood ceiling. How can I remove it?
    Community Answer
    Mix up some baking soda with water and make a paste. Apply the paste directly to the mold and let it sit for a little before you scrub it off.
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    Can mold grow on carpet?
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    Yes. If you spill a drink, even if it's water, dry it as much as possible or mold could grow.
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      • If you’re unsure how to clean an item or if it’s expensive or of sentimental value, consult a specialist before proceeding. [33]
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      Warnings

      • Avoid cleaning mold or going in areas with mold damage if you have asthma or a weakened immune system since you’re more likely to get sick. [34]
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      • Always wear protective gear when you’re working with mold so you don’t breathe in spores or get sick. [35]
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      References

      1. ↑ https://health.mo.gov/living/environment/indoorair/mold.php
      2. ↑ https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/mould-removal-at-home
      3. ↑ https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/mould-removal-at-home
      4. ↑ https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/mould-removal-at-home
      5. ↑ https://doh.wa.gov/sites/default/files/legacy/Documents/4300//Mold.pdf
      6. ↑ https://www.thisoldhouse.com/walls/22215480/remove-mold-on-drywall
      7. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/mold-on-the-walls/
      8. ↑ https://www.fema.gov/pdf/rebuild/recover/fema_mold_brochure_english.pdf
      9. ↑ Mike Kapur. Certified Mold Assessor & Home Inspector, Sonic Home Inspections. Expert Interview. 19 August 2020.
      1. ↑ https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/cleaning-mold-from-household-items
      2. ↑ https://www.lovetoknow.com/home/cleaning/how-remove-mold-from-leather-simple-ways
      3. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-remove-mold-from-wood/
      4. ↑ https://www.doh.wa.gov/Portals/1/Documents/4300/Mold.pdf
      5. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-kill-mold/
      6. ↑ https://todayshomeowner.com/cleaning/guides/how-to-remove-mold-from-concrete-patio/
      7. ↑ https://health.mo.gov/living/environment/indoorair/mold.php
      8. ↑ https://www.epa.gov/mold/mold-cleanup-your-home
      9. ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/mold-health/media/Homeowners_and_Renters_Guide.pdf
      10. ↑ https://www.epa.gov/mold/what-are-main-ways-control-moisture-your-home
      11. ↑ https://www.epa.gov/mold/ten-things-you-should-know-about-mold
      12. ↑ Mike Kapur. Certified Mold Assessor & Home Inspector, Sonic Home Inspections. Expert Interview. 19 August 2020.
      13. ↑ https://doh.wa.gov/sites/default/files/legacy/Documents/4300//Mold.pdf
      14. ↑ Mike Kapur. Certified Mold Assessor & Home Inspector, Sonic Home Inspections. Expert Interview. 19 August 2020.
      15. ↑ https://www.chicagotribune.com/2008/11/14/stubborn-mold-still-on-deck/
      16. ↑ Mike Kapur. Certified Mold Assessor & Home Inspector, Sonic Home Inspections. Expert Interview. 19 August 2020.
      17. ↑ https://doh.wa.gov/sites/default/files/legacy/Documents/4300//Mold.pdf
      18. ↑ Mike Kapur. Certified Mold Assessor & Home Inspector, Sonic Home Inspections. Expert Interview. 19 August 2020.
      19. ↑ https://doh.wa.gov/sites/default/files/legacy/Documents/4300//Mold.pdf
      20. ↑ https://www.doh.wa.gov/Portals/1/Documents/4300/Mold.pdf
      21. ↑ https://www.doh.wa.gov/Portals/1/Documents/4300/Mold.pdf
      22. ↑ Mike Kapur. Certified Mold Assessor & Home Inspector, Sonic Home Inspections. Expert Interview. 19 August 2020.
      23. ↑ Mike Kapur. Certified Mold Assessor & Home Inspector, Sonic Home Inspections. Expert Interview. 19 August 2020.
      24. ↑ https://health.mo.gov/living/environment/indoorair/mold.php
      25. ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/mold-health/communication-resources/what-to-wear.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/mold/What-to-Wear.html
      26. ↑ https://health.mo.gov/living/environment/indoorair/mold.php

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To remove mold and mildew from porous materials, like wood, put baking soda directly on the affected area. Let the baking soda penetrate the surface, then wipe it away. For non-porous materials, like tile, try using undiluted white or apple cider vinegar, instead. Just wash the affected area with the vinegar, then dry it completely. Dealing with stubborn mold or mildew on non-porous surfaces? Mix 1 cup of bleach with 1 gallon of warm water and use a brush to scrub the mold and mildew away. For more tips on removing mold and mildew, including from books or clothes, scroll down!

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