If you spot black mold growing in your home, it’s important to act quickly. This fungus grows rapidly and sends out mold spores into the air, which can lead to respiratory problems for those who are sensitive. It can also cause rashes and other skin issues. Fortunately, you can take steps to eliminate eliminating black mold by using natural cleaning solutions and following safe cleanup procedures.
To get started, change into a pair of thick clothes you don’t mind getting ruined and put on rubber gloves. Then, grab a pair of goggles or a mask to protect yourself from breathing in the toxic spores. It’s also a good idea to hang plastic sheeting around the affected area to keep spores from spreading to other parts of the house. You may also want to invest in a HEPA air filtration system at your local tool rental shop, which will trap the spores and make them easier to wipe away.
A natural cleaning solution that works well on black mold is white distilled vinegar. It’s cheap and effective, and it kills mold spores as well as cleans the surface it’s applied to. You can either pour undiluted vinegar directly onto the problem zone or spray it on a towel and scrub at the mold stains. Make sure the vinegar has a chance to dry before you rinse and wipe it clean.
If the mold stains remain, you can try using bleach to scrub the area. However, you should first test your sensitivity to bleach. Wear a face mask and rubber gloves to protect yourself from the harsh fumes, and follow the instructions on the product label for proper application. Bleach is a strong chemical and can damage some surfaces, including wood.
Bleach can also irritate the skin and eyes. If you’re concerned about your health, consider a blood test to see if you are allergic to black mold. During this test, a healthcare provider will use a thin needle to draw a small amount of blood from your arm. The sample will then be sent to a laboratory, where it will be tested for antibodies.
If a blood test indicates that you are not allergic to black mold, the next step is to find the source of the fungus and fix it. Leaky pipes and cracks in the foundation of your home can let moisture and humidity into your walls, which can lead to black mold growth.
If you don’t fix the underlying issue, black mold will return and can spread quickly. It’s best to call in a professional mold remediation company for permanent removal once you’ve cleared the problem areas in your home.
