How to Get Rid of Toxic Mold
Toxic mold poses a serious health risk for those who live in houses contaminated by it. While the mold itself is usually not toxic, the spores that it releases can sicken or kill people. If toxic mold is discovered in your home, then you must act quickly to have it cleaned. Fortunately, you will not need to hire outside cleaners to fix the majority of toxic mold problems.
Items Needed:
- Respirator
- Goggles
- Gloves
- Bleach
- Water
- Sponge
- Equip your respirator, gloves and goggles. If the mold comes into contact with your eyes, skin or lungs, it may cause serious infection. These infections can spread very quickly. Always wear protective equipment when cleaning toxic mold.
- Mix a cup and a half of bleach for every gallon of water to create your cleaning solution. Bleach is the best detergent for mold. The bleach will rupture the cell membranes of the mold, and this will kill it quickly. However, if the cleaning solution is too strong, then it can damage the materials you are cleaning.
- Use the sponge to apply the cleaning solution to the molded surface. Apply the cleaning solution generously and evenly across the contaminated surface. Allow the solution to sit for 20 minutes before wiping off any excess. You want the cleaning solution to soak into the molded material. This is the only way to kill mold that is below the surface.
- Apply a second coat of the cleaning solution. If you miss any of the mold, then it will quickly return. A second coat will kill any mold that you missed. Allow the area to dry before placing any items that could reduce the areas ventilation.