Basement Mold Removal Products

Mold removal products will loosen mold from infested items in your basement.bottles of cleaning product. bleach. disinfectant. image by L. Shat from Fotolia.com

Mold is a fungus that eats organic matter in nature. When mold spores, tiny microscopic mold cells, get into your home, they can settle on your walls, carpets or furniture and destroy them. Mold needs moisture to survive and it tends to grow in parts of your home with poor ventilation. This is why mold often grows in basements. If you live in a humid climate, it is likely that you will have to remove mold from your basement as some point. Mold removal products tend to not kill the mold, but instead they dislodge it from the walls and allow you to throw them away.

Detergent

If the mold has just begun to grow, you can use a simple detergent and water solution to remove it from your walls and carpets. You can use liquid or powder dishwasher or laundry detergent. To use the solution, dip a brush in the solution and scrub the walls or carpets with it. Then use a paper towel to soak up the solution and the removed mold growth. This method is best used in homes with small children or pets who may be sensitive to harsh chemicals. Always dry the items as much as possible to prevent the mold from growing back.

Borax is a natural cleanser that homeowners often use to clean toilets and sinks. You can mix borax with water to remove mold from basement walls or furniture. It is especially useful in basement bathrooms. Mix 1 cup of borax with 1 gallon of water. Dip a brush in the solution and scrub the item with it until the mold has been completely removed. Wipe up the mold with paper towels. Do not rinse the area with water, as the borax residue will help prevent mold from growing back in that area. Allow the area to dry completely.

Bleach-based products loosen the mold's grip on the wall or furniture. This allows you to scrub the mold and throw it away. To use bleach-based products, spray it on the wall and let it sit for at least 15 minutes or until the mold has been loosened. If the mold growth is very advanced this could take several hours. When the mold is loosened, scrub it with a brush and wipe it up with paper towels. Always work in a well-ventilated area when cleaning with mold and use a dust mask to prevent the mold spores from going into your lungs. Bleach-based products should not be used on carpets, rugs or fabric. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, bleach-based products should only be used as a last resort if all other products are unable to remove the mold.