How to Clean Mold off Walls

If you have a mold problem in your house, then you can suspect your house to have a moisture problem. Mold, as you must be aware of, is a kind of fungus that grows on plants, fibers, and places which can provide a moist or damp environment. These organisms do not need sunlight to survive. At home, bathroom tiles, ceilings, attics, leather goods, basements, areas under faucets, sinks, carpets, rags, are common places that are home for mold. Mold on walls is not only an unsightly issue, but is a major health concern. In most homes, mold growth is one of the main reason for causing all kinds of allergic reactions and other health problems.

Mold Exposure Health Effects

There can be a multitude of mold allergy symptoms. These symptoms tend to be the worst when caused by black mold, also known as toxic black mold. The common side effects that are observed include:

• Cough
• Sneezing
• Skin rashes
• Watery eyes
• Burning eyes
• Hives
• Breathing problems
• Poor concentration
• Depression
• Lethargy
• Low interest in activities
• Low libido
• Sleepiness or drowsiness
• Vision problems
• Hair loss
• Hot flashes
• Worsened asthma symptoms
• Poor appetite
• Irritability
• Choking feeling
• Abnormal taste in the mouth
• Muscle aches
• Itching
• Aggravated sinus infection symptoms

Getting Rid of Mold from Walls

The most important technique that you should know about how to get rid of mold is to find out what is fueling them. Find out places in your house that have water leaks. Once you cut off the moisture supply, consider that you have dealt with half the problem. To keep the moisture level low in the house, make use of dehumidifier, air conditioner or electric fans.

• You may have been thinking that vinegar only makes food taste great. The fact is, this stuff is no less effective than mold removal products that are available on the market. You have to drench the moldy wall with it. For this, you can make use of a spray bottle. Water would not be necessary. Simply squirt some of it on the area, and leave it for an hour or so. In the mean time, prepare a soapy solution using a strong detergent. After an hour, using a water hose, wash the wall with plenty of water. Do not use the water with full force, as it may dislodge the mold colonies to spread somewhere else. Now, soak a brush in the soapy water, and scrub the surface to clean off the mold stain. Rinse with clean water. Once it is gone, rub the surface using a clean rag and make it dry. Always wear disposable gloves, and mask.
• Another method is using tea tree oil with water. Just like in case of vinegar, spray the solution on the affected surface, and wait for an hour. Then using a brush, scrub the area until it is cleaned. Rinse with clean water, and dry with a clean rag. If necessary, use two rags.
• One important aspect to keep in mind about getting rid of mold on walls, is about attending to all places in the house that may have a mold growth. As I said, mold spores spread from one place to another. One of these places, which most people tend to overlook is the carpet. If you have a mold infestation in your house, sprinkle some baking powder on the carpet and let it stay for sometime. Vacuum it thoroughly, and if possible keep it under the sun for sometime.

To conclude, washing mold off walls should be done immediately as soon as you suspect mold growth, and on a regular basis, to prevent any recurrences. And if you feel your efforts are not paying off, then you may think of getting help from a professional.