Killing Mold on Wood

Mold is a type of fungus which thrives in dark, humid places. Mold feeds on organic material and requires oxygen for its survival. Moist surfaces serve as an ideal habitat for mold. It can virtually grow on anything, from bathroom tiles to carpet to wooden furniture. Depending upon the surface upon which the mold grows, the methods of mold remediation also differ. Mold poses severe health risks to humans and pets. Symptoms of black mold poisoning range from allergies to permanent immune suppression. Hence, killing mold becomes imperative.

How to Kill Mold on Wood Furniture

Cleaning mold from wood surface may not be same as killing mold from other surfaces. The common cleaning agent such as chlorine bleach which are otherwise very effective against mold, are useless when mold grows on wood. Black mold removal with bleach is not possible because bleach can only remove mold from non-porous surfaces. Wood being a highly porous surface cannot be completely freed from mold. In that case, you have to resort to other mold removal products and services. Interestingly, getting rid of mold on wood is pretty simple.

Vacuuming and Sanding
Black mold on wood can be removed using vacuum cleaners with HEPA filters. In fact, it is the easiest way of mold remediation in homes. These vacuum cleaners are capable of removing even small particulate pollutant, including mold spores. Vacuuming can easily take care of all the loose mold growth on the surface. If you can still see some traces of mold, which are difficult to vacuum, then you might have to wash the surface with detergent and water. The detailed procedure is explained below. Alternatively, gently sanding the surface is also an option you have. However, do not forget to wear dust protective goggles, gloves and other safety apparel while sanding the surface. Similarly, do not let children and pets anywhere near the area you are working. The dust and toxic black mold spores that fly off while sanding can cause serious health hazards.

Washing
Washing the surface with an unscented detergent is effective in killing black mold on wood. Before washing, clear off the loose mold with brush or a scrubber. Then soak a sponge in detergent solution and wipe the surface thoroughly. Repeat the procedure until all the visible traces of mold are removed. Rinse the surface with clean water. Then wipe the surface with a dry wash cloth to make it dry. Remember, it is very important to have the surface properly dried, else it will make your mold problem worse.

One can also use mold removal products available in the market. However, make sure they are intended for killing mold on wood. Also, follow the instructions on the label very carefully. Some of these products may give out toxic fumes, which can be hazardous to children and pets.

How to Prevent Growth of Mold on Wood

If you have mold on wood, it will most likely come back again unless you find the root cause of the problem and address it. If you have lot of humidity in your house, you have very high chances of mold growth everywhere. Reduce humidity in your home by using a dehumidifier. Besides, make sure you have proper ventilation and air circulation in your home. Exposing moldy surfaces to sunlight is the natural way of killing mold. Most importantly, check all the plumbing lines in and around your house and make sure there are no leakages. Always keep your house clean and dry. Inhibiting favorable conditions for mold growth is the only way of controlling mold growth in homes.

If you have repetitive mold growth in house or if the growth is excessive, it is best to rely on professional services who can take care of the issue.