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How do I Remove Bathroom Mold?

Susan Grindstaff
Susan Grindstaff

There are many commercial products that can be used to remove bathroom mold, however, you can easily mix your own solutions using products you probably already have on hand. Vinegar works well in removing mold, as does bleach and ammonia. You should use caution when using bleach or ammonia, because if used improperly, both can be dangerous. In addition, you should never mix the two, as the fumes can be toxic.

Your bathroom may be home to various types of mold, but the most common mold that thrives in bathrooms is generally black mold. Black mold can pose health risks, and its presence should not be ignored. In addition to health risks, if left unchecked, mold can spread and eventually infect wood supports, which in turn could cause expensive structural damage to your home. It is a good idea to check your bathroom for mold on a regular basis and to deal with it right away.

Bathrooms should be examined for mold on a routine basis.
Bathrooms should be examined for mold on a routine basis.

One relatively easy way to remove bathroom mold is by using bleach mixed with water. A quarter cup of bleach to a half gallon of water is what is generally recommended. You can add a bit of dish detergent to the mix as well, though it is not considered a necessary component. Spray or wipe the mixture directly on the mold and allow it to sit for about half an hour, and then, using paper towels or a disposable sponge, just wipe the area clean. When using bleach, make sure you wear a mask or keep the room well ventilated.

Bleach, which is effective in removing mold, should be used with caution.
Bleach, which is effective in removing mold, should be used with caution.

Ammonia works very much like bleach and will kill most bathroom mold. The ammonia should not be used on its own, but mixed with water and baking soda. A general rule of thumb is to use equal amounts of ammonia and water mixed with a handful of baking soda. As with bleach, ammonia fumes can be harmful, so be sure you have plenty of air circulating in the room. Ammonia is not as powerful as bleach, so some additional scrubbing may be necessary.

A disposable sponge can be used to clean bathroom mold.
A disposable sponge can be used to clean bathroom mold.

Using vinegar to kill bathroom mold is considered a good environmentally friendly alternative to bleach and ammonia. It is believed to kill more than 80% of all types of mold. You can pour straight vinegar directly onto the mold, or you can mix it with other cleaning solutions. Another good thing about using vinegar to kill bathroom mold is that it works as a natural deterrent to mold buildup. If you leave the cleaned area saturated with vinegar until it dries, it will discourage new mold growth.

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    • Bathrooms should be examined for mold on a routine basis.
      By: david hughes
      Bathrooms should be examined for mold on a routine basis.
    • Bleach, which is effective in removing mold, should be used with caution.
      By: design56
      Bleach, which is effective in removing mold, should be used with caution.
    • A disposable sponge can be used to clean bathroom mold.
      By: rck
      A disposable sponge can be used to clean bathroom mold.