We’ve all been there—you’re tidying up the bathroom, or maybe even the kitchen, and boom, you spot it: mold.
The unwelcome guest nobody invited. It creeps into your grout, your shower, or even that forgotten corner in the basement. And just when you think you’ve got it under control, it shows up again, like the world’s worst houseguest.
So, you may have heard alcohol can kill mold. But before you start raiding your cleaning supplies, let’s talk about whether alcohol truly kills mold and what cleans mold.
Mold: The Annoying Neighbor of Household Problems
Mold is like that neighbor who refuses to trim their hedges—it keeps coming back no matter how many hints you drop.
Mold doesn’t just make your home look gross; it can also mess with the air quality, which can render your home unsafe. So, it’s important to get rid of it quickly. It loves moisture, so if you’ve got leaky pipes, humid spots, or poor ventilation, mold is like, “Party time!”
Alcohol: The Mold Slayer... Or Is It?
Now, about that rubbing alcohol you’ve got under the sink. Is it really the magic solution? Well, yes and no.
While alcohol can disinfect, it’s not great at eliminating mold, especially on porous surfaces like wood, drywall, or grout. It’s kind of like putting a tiny bandage on a big cut—it might help for a little bit, but it’s not fixing the actual problem.
Alcohol works best for surface cleaning, but if you’ve got mold that’s deeply embedded, it’s not going to be your best friend here.
But What About 70% Isopropyl Alcohol? Sounds Tougher, Right?
If you’re thinking, “I’ve got 70% isopropyl alcohol—that must do the trick,” hold on a second. Sure, it’s stronger, but mold isn’t really scared of it.
Mold likes to dig in deep, and isopropyl alcohol just can’t reach those hidden roots. It’s a bit like trying to mop a spill with a single tissue—it’s better than nothing, but you’re going to need more to clean up the mess.
Vinegar vs. Alcohol: Who Wins in the Mold Battle?
Now, here’s where vinegar steps in.
If alcohol is like a dab of perfume, vinegar is like your go-to cleaning product. It’s acidic and can damage mold at its core, making it a solid option for smaller mold outbreaks.
And hey, it’s eco-friendly too! But before you get too excited, vinegar isn’t a miracle worker for big mold problems. For more extensive areas, you’ll want something with a bit more kick—a professional mold remover.
Alcohol and Vinegar Mix: A Mold-Busting Super Combo?
Mixing alcohol and vinegar to kill mold? Sounds like a great idea, right? Not really. You won’t get some mold-busting superhero out of it. Vinegar on its own is effective for small jobs, but adding alcohol into the mix doesn’t really enhance it. You’re better off sticking with vinegar alone.
Bleach: The Mold Monster Slayer?
What about bleach? Ah yes, the old reliable.
Bleach can indeed kill mold on non-porous surfaces like tiles or glass. But when it comes to porous materials like wood or drywall, bleach is just scratching the surface. Literally. It kills the top layer of mold, but the roots beneath are still hanging out, ready to make a comeback.
Plus, bleach can leave behind some unsightly stains, so unless you’re into the “tie-dye mold removal” look, proceed with caution.
A Quick PSA: NEVER MIX ALCOHOL & BLEACH
One quick note—NEVER EVER MIX ALCOHOL AND BLEACH. That’s not a cleaning solution—it’s a recipe for TOXIC FUMES. Seriously, don’t try this at home.
So, What Actually Gets Rid of Mold?
If you’re serious about banishing mold for good, it’s time to break out the heavy-duty stuff.
Professional-grade mold removers are designed to penetrate those deep mold roots and get into all the places alcohol or vinegar can’t reach, and helps you get rid of mold without bleach (or destroying your counter surface). These products are so important in your DIY mold killing solution.
Some popular options include mold remover sprays and mold killer spray products available at most home improvement stores, such as:
And if your mold problem is spread over a big area (think more than 10 square feet), it’s probably best to call in a pro. They’ve got the tools and the know-how to fix the problem without leaving you with a bigger mess.
So Now, How Do I Clean Up Mold?
While we strongly recommend hiring a professional mold cleaning service for serious infestations, we understand that some of you are determined to tackle this challenge yourself.
Just a quick heads-up: if you’re facing a real infestation over 10 square feet, it’s best to call in the pros—don’t take any chances!
However, if it’s a manageable situation and you’re ready to roll up your sleeves, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a handy list of materials you’ll need, along with a step-by-step process to clean mold yourself effectively.
Mold Cleaning Supplies (Since You Have No Choice But To Clean Mold Yourself)
Before you tackle that mold, you’ll need to arm yourself with the right cleaning supplies. Don’t worry, it’s not a total scavenger hunt!
Here’s a list of crucial materials you’ll need to battle the mold head-on:
- Protective Gear: Safety first, folks! Mold can be harmful, so make sure to wear gloves, a face mask, and goggles. You don’t want to breathe in or touch any mold spores.
- Scrub Brush: A good, sturdy scrub brush will be your best friend for loosening up mold from surfaces.
- Microfiber Cloths or Disposable Rags: Use these to wipe down surfaces after scrubbing. Microfiber is highly absorbent, and disposable rags can be thrown away after use.
- Bucket and Warm Water: You’ll need some good old-fashioned warm water to help rinse away mold residue as you scrub.
- Dish Soap or All-Purpose Cleaner: Regular dish soap works wonders for cleaning non-porous surfaces before you break out the heavy-duty stuff.
- Distilled White Vinegar (Optional): If you’re looking for a natural solution, vinegar is a solid mold-fighting option for light areas of growth. Pour some in a spray bottle and let it sit on the moldy areas.
- Baking Soda (Optional): Need a little extra scrubbing power? Baking soda helps remove stubborn mold and neutralizes odors.
- Mold Remover Sprays: This is where the big guns come in. Concrobium Mold Control and RMR-86 Mold Remover are top-tier choices that’ll zap away mold. Both are strong, effective, and designed to target those stubborn patches of mold that laugh at soap and water.
- HEPA Vacuum Cleaner or Any Vacuum: Once you’ve cleaned the area, use a HEPA-filter vacuum to remove any lingering mold spores from the air and surrounding surfaces. Mold spores are like glitter—once they’re out, they get everywhere, and the vacuum will help keep your space spore-free. But it’s good to vacuum the area BEFORE you clean it with any solutions.
With these supplies at the ready, you’re fully equipped to handle any mold cleanup like a pro. Just be sure to follow the cleaning steps mentioned earlier to keep that mold from staging a comeback.
Step-By-Step Process on Properly Cleaning Mold
Cleaning up mold might seem daunting, and well… again, we recommend hiring professionals for any “mold stuff”, but with the right materials and a clear process, you can handle it like a pro!
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this task effectively & safely:
- Gather Your Mold Cleaning Supplies:
Before you embark on this mold-busting adventure, make sure you have all the necessary supplies ready. - Prepare the Area:
Start by removing any furniture or items near the moldy area. This not only protects your belongings but also gives you a clear space to work. Open windows to ensure proper ventilation—mold removal can be a bit smelly! - Vacuum the Area:
Use your HEPA vacuum cleaner to remove loose mold spores and debris from the affected area. This step is crucial as it helps minimize the spread of spores during cleaning. - Apply the Mold:
Shake your mold remover spray and generously apply it to the affected areas. Follow the instructions on the label for the best results. Let it sit for the recommended time to allow it to penetrate the mold. - (OPTIONAL) – Use Distilled White Vinegar:
If you prefer a natural option, spray distilled white vinegar directly onto the moldy area. Let it sit for about an hour. The acidity helps break down mold and disinfect the surface. - Scrub Away the Mold:
Once the mold remover or vinegar has had its moment to work its magic, take your scrub brush or sponge and start scrubbing the moldy surfaces. Use firm pressure, but be gentle enough not to damage the material underneath. - (OPTIONAL) – Baking Soda Application:
For an extra boost, you can mix baking soda with water to form a paste and apply it to the affected areas after scrubbing. This will help absorb odors and further scrub away any remaining mold. - Rinse the Area:
After scrubbing, rinse the area with clean water to remove any remaining mold spores and cleaning solution. A bucket can be handy here for easier management. - Dry Thoroughly:
Use cloth towels or rags to dry the cleaned area completely. Mold loves moisture, so ensuring the space is dry is crucial in preventing a comeback. - Dispose of Materials Safely:
Once you’re done, dispose of any used cleaning materials safely. Seal them in a plastic bag and throw them away to avoid spreading mold spores elsewhere. - Monitor the Area:
Keep an eye on the cleaned area over the next few days. If you see any signs of mold returning, it might be time to rethink your strategy or consider really calling in the professionals.
Quick Recap for Your Mold Battle Plan:
- Rubbing alcohol and isopropyl alcohol? They’re fine for minor surface jobs but not deep cleaning.
- Vinegar? A more powerful option for small mold outbreaks and safe for the environment.
- Bleach? Works on non-porous surfaces but won’t cut it for porous ones.
- Never mix alcohol and bleach unless you like breathing toxic air.
- For bigger mold problems, bring in the professionals—they’ve got this under control.
The Bottom Line
So, can alcohol really help you tackle that mold situation? Not really.
It’s more of a surface-level cleaner. If you want to make sure that mold is really gone, reach for the vinegar or, better yet, a commercial-grade mold remover.
And if things get out of hand, don’t hesitate to call in the experts. Mold is a serious issue, and it’s always better to handle it sooner rather than later. Your home will thank you.
Get Rid Of Mold FAQ
Can Alcohol Kill Mold on Surfaces?
Sure, alcohol can help clean up minor surface mold, but it’s not going to take care of the roots. It’s like sweeping dust under the rug—it’s still there, just out of sight.
Is Alcohol or Vinegar Better to Kill Mold?
Vinegar is more effective for small mold outbreaks, especially since it’s acidic. It’s a better alternative than alcohol for most small jobs. But if the mold is serious, vinegar won’t cut it.
Can Bleach Handle Mold?
Yes, but only on hard, non-porous surfaces. For things like wood or drywall, bleach will only address surface mold and won’t fix the root problem. Also, you also need to be aware that bleach can damage certain surfaces. So always be cautious.
What’s the Best Way to Remove Mold from Wood?
The best way is to use a professional mold remover, especially the examples listed above. You can also try vinegar for smaller spots, but mold can be tricky on wood, so don’t be afraid to bring in the pros if needed.
Can Hydrogen Peroxide Remove Mold?
Yes! Hydrogen peroxide can be a good alternative to bleach and is less harsh. Just be sure to test it on an area first to make sure it doesn’t discolor your surfaces.
What's the Best Mold Killer Overall?
There are a few great commercial mold removers available, such as the example brands listed in the content above. Just make sure to follow the instructions carefully and, for larger infestations, call in a professional to handle it safely.
