Have you ever tried to get rid of mold and found yourself in a dilemma? Well, it is not surprising at all since there are so many ways on how to kill mold on porous surfaces that we have discussed in this article.
However, not everything that can kill mold will also be helpful for killing it on specific surfaces. It is important to know which method works for what kind of surface if you want to do the mold killing process as quickly and efficiently as possible.
This article specializes in porous surfaces and will go through the most effective and reliable ways how to kill mold on porous surfaces.
Now, you may wonder: “what makes these methods effective for killing mold?” Well, it is because of the fact that they are able to penetrate deep into the pores, thus making them more efficient in eliminating mold spores that cannot normally be reached with other methods.
It can be said that porous surfaces are similar to sponges, where the mold spores are deeply soaked inside. Thus, it takes more effort to take them out of their hiding places.
Let us start with the basics first before proceeding on how to kill mold on porous surfaces so you will have a better idea about what you are going to learn about and how you can carry out these methods of killing mold.
class=”wp-block-heading” id=”why-does-mold-grow-on-porous-surfaces”>Why Does Mold Grow On Porous Surfaces?
Most molds are often found on porous surfaces because the materials that these surfaces are made of can provide food for them to grow.
Additionally, there is enough moisture coming from these materials as well. However, not all mold species will be able to survive on porous surfaces.
The porous surface quickly absorbs the moisture that comes from the mold’s spores and prevents them from growing into colonies.
They are also deprived of air since there are no openings on the surfaces. There are different kinds of porous materials that mold can thrive on, including wood, drywall, carpet, and even leather.
Mold may actually grow inside these surfaces if they have moisture on the inside as well. Water, on the other hand, is unable to permeate non-porous surfaces and so moisture cannot be trapped.
Mold can grow on non-porous surfaces, but porous surfaces are more appealing as living areas since to their capacity to retain water.
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Step On On How To Kill Mold On Porous Surfaces
Now that you are familiar with the basics of why does mold grows on porous surfaces, we can now proceed with the most effective and reliable ways of removing it. Below we have listed some of them.
Using Hydrogen Peroxide
When it comes to how to kill mold, hydrogen peroxide should be one of the first products you should try. It is not only found in personal hygiene products but also in household cleaning supplies as well.
The significant benefits of using hydrogen peroxide are that it does not corrode any surface – porous or non-porous – and it is also safe for the environment.
However, before proceeding with hydrogen peroxide in killing mold on a porous surface, you have to make sure that it is already dry so it will not increase the chances of causing mold to grow again.
This method works by simply applying 3% concentration hydrogen peroxide on the spot where mold is growing and then letting it stay there for around 15 to 20 minutes.
After that, simply wipe it off using a towel or any other kind of cloth material since it will be stained after this process.
Hydrogen peroxide does not only kill the mold; it also disinfects and deodorizes the area in which it was applied. It is important to note that hydrogen peroxide needs to be mixed with water in order for it to work.
However, when mixing these two liquids, you have to make sure that they are both at room temperature or below since adding hot liquid will minimize the potency of hydrogen peroxide.
When mixing these two liquids, just create a 50-50 solution and then apply it on the spot where mold is growing. However, make sure that you stay away from areas where there are open flames because hydrogen peroxide decomposes into water and oxygen when exposed to heat.
The water vapor can then ignite and explode the container causing severe damage.
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Using Tree Tea Oil
Tree tea oil is another one of the most effective ways to kill mold. Tea tree oil, which comes from steaming the leaves of the Australian tea tree, has powerful antiseptic and antimicrobial properties.
Tea tree oil works by penetrating deep into porous surfaces where it can go inside the tiny pores found there. This helps to prevent the moisture from entering these pores once it is exposed to air. The oil also acts as a natural repellant that discourages mold growth on porous surfaces.
To use tea tree oil, you should mix one part of this oil with three parts of water in a spray bottle. You can then apply this mixture directly onto the affected areas and let it stay there for at least 10 minutes. Then, simply wipe or scrub the area until the mold disappears.
You can increase the chance of killing off mold using tea tree oil by repeating this process twice a day for about one week. This will ensure that any remaining spores are entirely killed, so they will not produce new microbes later on.
Tree tea oil also has a pleasant minty smell which will not only kill mold but will also make the surrounding area more comfortable and fresh.
Since tea tree oil is very concentrated, it can be pretty expensive, especially if you want to purchase organic brands. Other than that, some people may find the strong smell of this essential oil irritating or uncomfortable.
Using Vinegar
Vinegar is another type of liquid that you can use to kill mold. It has the same antiseptic properties as hydrogen peroxide, which means it can kill mold on any surface, whether porous or not.
The major difference between vinegar and hydrogen peroxide is that the latter needs to be mixed with water before using it, while vinegar does not.
To use vinegar for killing mold, you have to pour a bit of this liquid onto the affected area so you can fill an empty spray bottle. Then, shake and spray the area in order to kill mold.
You can let it stay there for about a few minutes and then wipe it off using a towel or any other material that is suitable for cleaning this kind of surface.
You can also add some lemon juice in order to remove stains left behind by vinegar. It is quite acidic, which can erode porous surfaces if it stays on top of it for a long time.
It is, therefore, important to rinse this liquid off entirely from the surface with a dry piece of cloth when you are done.
When choosing vinegar for killing mold, make sure that you use white distilled vinegar instead of apple cider and balsamic vinegar instead of other types.
White distilled vinegar has strong acidity and a high level of alcohol that can help kill off the mold. As mentioned, vinegar has powerful acidic properties, which are not only effective in killing mold but can also hurt people’s skin.
Therefore, it is important to wear proper protective clothing before using this solution, especially if you have sensitive skin. Also, make sure that the area is properly ventilated so you will avoid inhaling the strong vinegar smell.
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Using Borax
Borax is a general term for a compound known as sodium borate. It has powerful antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help kill mold on any surface making it one of the most effective ways to kill mold.
To use borax, you will have to mix a cup of borax powder with water in a spray bottle bucket and stir it well until it is dissolved. This mixture can then be sprayed or applied onto the moldy area stiff-bristled cleaning brush.
Once you are done, let it stay for a few minutes. You can then wipe or scrub the area until mold disappears completely. You can repeat this process twice a day for about one week to ensure that any remaining spores are entirely killed so they will not produce new microbes later on.
Using borax to kill mold is safe and non-toxic – it can even be used as an additive for laundry detergent as well as dishwashing liquid.
However, you should still wear protective clothing such as long sleeves and eye goggles to avoid getting the substance on your skin and in your eyes.
Also, make sure that there is proper ventilation so you will not inhale borax dust and keep away from children and pets since the substance can be harmful to them.
It is also important to remember that borax can leave stains on porous surfaces such as wood and drywall, which means you should spot test first before applying this solution.
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Using Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is a type of acid that can kill mold on any surface. It has citric acid, which makes it effective in killing microbes such as bacteria and mold.
To use this solution, you have to mix one cup of lemon juice with two cups of water. Then, soak a piece of cloth or towel into the mixture so it can be applied later on to the moldy surface.
Once you are done wiping the area, it is important to leave this solution untouched for a few minutes since lemon juice needs time in order to work its way into the porous surface.
After a few minutes, you can use a clean cloth or stiff-bristle brush dampened by plain water with soap or mild detergent to remove the solution.
Wipe the surface thoroughly before letting it dry completely. This process can be repeated twice a day for about one week to make sure mold does not grow on this area again.
Using lemon juice is safe and effective – it also has no hazardous fumes, which makes it safe to use indoors without having to worry about harming anyone inside your home.
However, you should still make sure that the area is properly ventilated so fumes will not settle on your skin and in your respiratory tract.
Using Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural compound that is commonly used as a leavening agent for baking. It also works as an alkaline agent, which means it can help fight off mold that thrives in acidic conditions.
To use this method, make a thick paste using three parts of water to one part of baking soda, or you can fill the spray bottle and add half a teaspoonful of baking soda.
Apply the mixture on the moldy surface using a stiff-bristled brush, then let it sit for about 15 minutes. Scrub the area with soap or mild detergent before rinsing it thoroughly with clean water.
You can repeat these steps mentioned above to make sure that any remaining mold has been eliminated completely. Also, make sure that the area has enough ventilation to avoid inhaling baking soda dust or other harsh fumes.
Using baking soda is safe for most surfaces – it is also non-toxic, which means there are no harmful toxic fumes that can be inhaled. However, you should avoid getting the substance into your eyes or on your skin since it can irritate them.
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Steps On Preventing Mold From Growing On Porous Surfaces
Now that you have identified the main reasons as to why mold is growing on your porous surfaces, it is now time to take steps in preventing mold from growing again.
Below we have some tips that will help you get rid of the mold on your porous surface while also making sure it does not grow on this area again.
Proeper Ventilation
Make sure that ventilation is working properly. This means that you should have windows or vents open in order to get rid of excess humidity, which can stimulate the growth of mold. If there is no natural source of fresh air, you can also install a fan for this purpose.
Avoid wetting the area too much since this can also lead to the growth of mold. The porous surface will have a hard time drying out, so it is important not to add more moisture by using humidifiers or leaving dishes in the sink overnight.
Cover and seal any damp areas such as leaky pipes and windows and look for ways to fix them quickly. Avoid using harsh chemicals when cleaning the moldy area since these products are not only bad for your health, but they can also lead to the growth of mold, especially if it contains nutrients.
Make sure that all porous surfaces are properly sealed or covered to prevent any moisture from seeping through them. This includes wallpapers and even ceiling tiles.
Keep humidity levels at a certain level in order to make sure that mold does not grow on your porous surfaces again. Mold is a fungus that thrives in damp areas – this means that if you have porous surfaces, chances are it will grow in these areas.
Reduce Room Humidity
Mold can also grow in your home if the room is too humid and warm. This happens because mold grows by using moisture and carbon dioxide, which we release during breathing.
If humidity levels are high, it will be difficult to prevent mold growth – especially on porous surfaces. However, there are ways that you can keep humidity levels low while still making sure the room is well ventilated.
Make sure that basements are properly drained since they are known for being dark, warm areas where humidity can accumulate easily. Also, avoid using carpeting in the bathroom or on the main floor – this includes under your kitchen countertops.
Open windows during the daytime when temperatures are cooler to let fresh air circulate the room and use exhaust fans more often. Use bathroom and kitchen fans when cooking or taking showers to get rid of excess humidity in these areas of your home.
Use a dehumidifier in order to reduce the humidity level of your home. You can also use other ways, including baking soda or even charcoal placed inside open containers since they can absorb moisture.
Final Words
Mold is a fungus that unfortunately can grow on most porous surfaces. Luckily, there are ways you can use to kill mold in these areas.
You should first identify the main reasons as to why mold has started to grow in your home and then take steps in preventing it from growing again by reducing humidity levels and ventilating the area more often.
However, if you have tried all of these methods and still find that mold is growing on your porous surfaces again, then the best solution for this would be to replace them since they can serve as a breeding ground for mold in your home with time.
Hopefully, after reading through this article, you will know how to kill mold on porous surfaces and how to prevent it from growing again.
