How to Kill Black Mold

Person cleaning black mold in the corner of a window.

Recently, you discovered that water damage led to mold growth in your home. Maybe the basement flooded or the attic had a roof leak. Mold spores, which are part of the natural environment, quickly sprout in the right conditions. Black mold, in particular, can be worrisome. Do you know how to kill black mold? Most importantly, should you try to do so yourself in the first place?

What is Black Mold?

Of the family stachybotryaceae, this fungus prefers growth substrates that are high in cellulose. Paper, gypsum, and fabrics are typical growth environments. The fungus, like other molds, prefers consistent moisture and an overall humid setting.

While there is much hype about mycotoxins, it is important to note that black mold is not the only fungus that releases them. Although experts do not know the exact mechanism, there is a chance that this mold can cause a number of health problems. Examples include respiratory illnesses, neurological issues, and more.

What Not To Do

The internet is full of home remedies for black mold. Recipes advocate anything from household bleach to essential oils. Here are few tips of what not to do.

  • Do not tackle the problem if you have allergic reactions. If you are one of the individuals who is affected by the mycotoxins, the exposure to spores and fungal bits and pieces is not a good idea. Have someone else handle the problem.
  • Do not mix cleaners. Never mix household bleach with another detergent. No matter what some internet recipes claim, doing so can create deadly gases.
  • Do not try to clean porous surfaces. Drywall and wood are porous. The corner of your window and the porcelain bathroom fixtures are not. You can have good results when cleaning the non-porous surfaces.
  • Do not try to clean up large chunks of mold. Should you uncover a patch that is larger than a small section, it is best to call in the professionals for remediation.
  • Do not forget protective gear. Eye protection, gloves, and air filtration are just some of the things you should have on hand.

How to Kill Black Mold Effectively

Start by locating the leak or moisture problem that caused the fungus to grow in the first place. Until you tackle this issue, mold growth will be a recurring event. Next, throw out mold-infested items. Unless you are willing to spend a lot of money on having carpeting rehabbed, it is cheaper to throw it out and replace it.

Focus on the non-porous areas. You can clean these up if the mold growth is not too widespread. You may have to repeat the process several times. However, remember that neither ammonia nor bleach will penetrate porous materials. It takes professional-grade cleaners and equipment to kill the fungus there.

If you tried to treat these areas with bleach or commercial bathroom mold removers, you probably noticed that the fungus keeps coming back. It is because these chemicals do not penetrate to the root of the problem. To get there, Healthy Air USA can help. Contact us today for more tips on how to kill black mold and to get help with the big areas.

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