How to Kill Mold

Killing mold is a dirty job, but the right tools can help you wipe it out for good. Check out these tips for using the best cleaners to solve your fungus problem.

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By: Caroline Shannon-Karasik

Don't worry, you're not alone on this one: Almost every homeowner has to brush up on how to kill mold at some point in order to maintain the upkeep of his or her living space.

The best method for killing mold is to nix it before it becomes hard to manage. Tiny black spots on the surface of flooring, walls or tile are the first sign of a type of mold better known as mildew. Clean up this type of mold with a scrub brush and a common household mildew spray.

If the infestation is large, then special precautions will be necessary. Be sure to protect yourself by wearing gloves, a facemask and eye protection. If the mold has infested an area that lies beneath a carpet, then begin by removing and discarding the carpet. Clean up the area using a wet-dry vacuum and then treat it with a biocide and disinfectant, like MoldSTAT or OxB biocide. Make any necessary repairs to the once-infected area and then allow it to completely dry. You may want to speed up the process by using a fan.

If harsh chemicals aren't the name of your game and the infestation is small, then consider a natural mold and mildew killer. Many people have found success by filling a spray bottle with tea tree oil or vinegar and spraying the area in order to kick mold to the curb.

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