Bleach is well known for its ability to kill mold. It is often the go-to when you need to wipe some mold off the edge of the sink or off the basement floor. However, bleach does have its downsides. It has quite a smell that some people find really off-putting. It can also cause respiratory irritation. For this reason, some people would rather not use bleach for mold removal. So what are some alternatives?
Borax
Borax is a common laundry additive. It is very alkaline, and this makes it a good mold killer. However, when mixed with water, it does not give off toxic or irritating fumes like bleach does. Borax also kills algae, which is good because, in many moist areas, both mold and algae tend to grow. Mix some borax into warm water. You can apply the mixture to the moldy surface and then leave it behind without rinsing. The little bit of borax left behind will help keep mold from growing back if more spores happen to land on that surface in the coming days.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is well known for its anti-fungal properties. It is often used to treat athlete's foot and ringworm. Mold is also a fungus, and as such, tea tree oil can kill it. You won't, however, want to use tea tree oil on just any surface. It is an oil, so it will penetrate materials like wood and drywall. You don't, therefore, want to use it anywhere porous. It works well on the edges of sinks, around drains, and on plastic containers.
Ammonia
If you have mold on a porous surface, such as drywall, then ammonia is a good solution to try. This chemical is harsh and should never be mixed with bleach. It works because it is very alkaline, and it disrupts the coating on the outer layer of mold particles, killing them. If you use ammonia on a porous surface, apply it and then let it sit for a few hours while you vacate the space. This will ensure you don't have to breathe in the fumes as the ammonia does its work.
If you do not want to use bleach to clean up mold for whatever reason, then there are alternatives. Consider the options above, and reach out to a mold removal company if you need any additional info.
To learn more, contact a mold remediation company.
Share5 August 2020
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