In comparison to special products available on the market, natural methods for getting rid of mold are much safer for our families, for our pets, and for the environment since they don’t contain any chemicals.
It is important to consider all these factors when choosing a method that will work for you, because some are easier to apply than others, and some might smell differently than others.
🟢 Vinegar
When it comes to removing mold around the house, vinegar can be used in two ways. In one method, vinegar is diluted in water before applying to the affected areas, and in the second one, vinegar is applied straight from the bottle, undiluted.
Due to its strength, undiluted vinegar is more effective than diluted vinegar. Researchers have found that white vinegar can destroy up to 82% of mold spores, viruses, and bacteria. Simply spray vinegar on the affected areas, leave it on for several hours, then remove the mold by rubbing with a brush. Vinegar can also be sprayed over surfaces to prevent mold growth.
You can use essential oils to mask the smell if you can’t handle it. However, the strong smell of vinegar doesn’t persist for more than a few hours.
🧴 Tea tree oil solution
Although slightly more expensive than other natural methods to eliminate mold, applying a small amount of tea tree oil can do wonders for mold affected areas. You can make an effective solution by diluting two teaspoons of tea tree oil with two cups of water. Spray the solution on the mold spores without rinsing the affected area. Don’t worry about the astringent smell, it will disappear within a few days.
🍋 Citrus seed and water extract
This is one of the preferred methods because, unlike vinegar and tea tree oil, citrus seed extract (like grapefruit) is odorless. Add about 20 drops of extract to two cups of water and spray over the mold affected area, without rinsing the surface.
⚪ Hydrogen peroxide
For this method, spray hydrogen peroxide (3% concentration) over the mold affected area and allow it to act for 10 minutes. To remove the remaining mold spores, rub well and wipe with a damp cloth. Optionally, mix hydrogen peroxide with baking soda and vinegar to remove mold, but don’t forget to store the solution in a dark place because light reduces the substance’s effectiveness.
🧽 Baking soda
Baking soda is another effective way to remove mold naturally. It can be used with vinegar and water, or just water. Mix baking soda with vinegar and water, and spray it on the mold-affected area. Once the solution has taken effect, rub the surface thoroughly and wipe it with a damp cloth to remove mold traces. There is no smell left behind after using this natural disinfectant.