You can naturally remove mold in the basement, which is safe for your family, pets, and the environment. They are also cheaper than commercial chemicals.
White distilled vinegar has antifungal properties and effectively kills black mold spores. Invest in a cleaning vinegar with a higher concentration of acetic acid.
Vinegar
White vinegar is a household cleaner that cleans, deodorizes, and kills mold on porous and non-porous surfaces. It is a mildly acidic product that will not damage most surfaces and does not leave an offensive odor. A 2015 study found that full-strength white vinegar killed 82% of the mold species tested, including black mold. in a spray bottle, pour undiluted white vinegar and apply it to the mold-infected surface. Allow it to sit for an hour before wiping away and cleaning the area.
Consider several other natural options if you would prefer not to work with full-strength vinegar. Grapefruit seed extract, for example, is a powerful and safe natural mold killer with nearly no odor. It also deodorizes and disinfects. Mix a cup of water with ten drops of grapefruit seed extract and apply it to the mold-infected surface. Let it sit for an hour before wiping it away and allowing the area to air dry.
Hydrogen peroxide is another odorless option that can kill and prevent the return of mold. In a spray bottle, pour 3% hydrogen peroxide and apply it to the mold-infected area. Allow it to sit for up to 10 minutes before scrubbing the area and removing it with a clean towel.
Tea Tree Oil
A natural fungicide, tea tree oil comes from the Melaleuca alternifolia plant that grows wildly in Australia. Its oil contains terpinen-4-ol, a compound that has potent antimicrobial properties. This solution can kill mold and mildew on surfaces, including carpets, tiles, and wood floors, when mixed with hydrogen peroxide. In a spray bottle, mix one teaspoon of the oil with a cup of water, spray the solution onto the affected surface, and allow it to sit for several minutes before scrubbing it away with a hard-bristled brush.
As with vinegar, this solution can be toxic if it comes into contact with your skin, so wear gloves during application. Also, using some surfaces, such as marble or granite, may be unsafe.
Another natural option for killing mold is citrus seed extract, another fungicide. It can eliminate light mold stains and prevent future growth like vinegar. It is best suited for surfaces such as tiles and wood and can be used with the above vinegar solution to remove stubborn spots.
When using any of these natural cleaners, it is essential to ventilate the work area well. It is not healthy for you, your family, or your pets to breathe in the spores of any mold, especially black mold.
Citrus Seed Extract
Grapefruit seed extract is a natural cleaner and antifungal agent that is especially effective at killing mold. It is also a great alternative to bleach because it is odorless and less toxic. Mix water with a few drops of grapefruit seed extract in a spray bottle and apply generously to the affected area. Let it sit for about 20 to 30 minutes before rinsing.
You can purchase this product at most large pharmacies or supermarkets. It is inexpensive and easy to find, making it a good option for anyone looking to clean their home naturally. It can be used on wood surfaces as well.
Another easy way for basement mold removal is to apply lemon juice to the affected surface. The high acid concentration in lemons is a natural deodorizer, antiseptic, bleach, and stain remover. It is also effective against mildew. Pour some lemon juice over the contaminated area and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, wipe the area with a damp towel.
It is important to note that despite the benefits of these natural remedies, they should not be used as a replacement for proper mold removal and prevention. You should always address the source of the mold. A dehumidifier and regular cleaning can help prevent mold growth in the first place.
Baking Soda
You’ll find this ingredient in many natural cleaners, and it’s a potent antifungal that can kill mold. It also works as an odor absorber and is gentle enough to use in the home without damaging surfaces. To use baking soda to remove mold:
- Sprinkle a thick layer over the affected surface and scrub with a brush or sponge.
- Rinse the area and dry it with a towel.
- Repeat as needed until the affected areas are clean and free of spores.
Vinegar
Undiluted white vinegar kills surface mold on non-porous surfaces such as tiles and glass. However, it can break down these porous materials and cause damage to drywall, insulation, or concrete.
Before you get to work, prepare the area by wearing protective gear, including a mask, safety glasses, and gloves. Open windows to circulate fresh air and make sure the room is well-ventilated. Vacuum loose debris with a HEPA-filtered vacuum cleaner to reduce the number of mold spores stirred into the air during the cleaning process.
Combine equal parts water and clear ammonia in a spray bottle and apply the solution to the affected surfaces. Let it sit for about an hour before scrubbing or rinsing. You can use a scrub brush to help you reach hard-to-reach places and to remove stubborn stains.