Best Product To Clean Mold And Mildew. Which Is Best For You?

Helen Skeates
Helen Skeates
36 min read

You’ll be terrified the first time you discover mold lurking in a damp, dark place. You are aware of the detrimental effects it can have on your health. And you know how much mold cleanup may cost. But don’t freak out. Remove the fungus on your own, if you can.

Protective gear and a good mold remover are usually all you’ll need for most mold removals. Your home’s façade, bathroom wall, or even under the kitchen sink are all potential candidates for do-it-yourself projects.

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Mold Remover

Consider the sort of material the mold is adhered to before donning your rubber gloves and spraying off a disgusting, moldy surface. The best mold remover and technique may differ depending on the substance.

Location of Mold

Mold might be difficult to remove, however there are molds that are much easier to remove. If mold grows on your clothes, such as your curtains, you can typically remove it by washing them in a mold-removal solution. However, removing mold from beneath a kitchen cabinet may be more challenging.

Organic surfaces provide breeding grounds for mold, which consumes and degrades the organic material. It can feed on the paper face if it has access to drywall, such as beneath a sink cabinet. The removal of the cabinets, drywall, and insulation, and the treatment of the mold in the cavity beneath them may necessitate more time or work.

CLR® Mold & Mildew Clear | Remover for Use on Walls, Tile, Grout, & Countertops

When it comes to your home’s siding, a little elbow grease can be all that’s necessary. To clean the siding, all you need to do is saturate it with mold remover and scrub it with a brush.

Mold Type

When it comes to mold, it doesn’t always matter what sort you have. All of the common kinds of mold can be removed with the majority of mold removers. If you have a problem with a harmful mold, you may need to call a professional.

In particular, black mold can pose a major threat. Stachybotrys, the bacterium’s official name, is particularly dangerous to the lungs. To thrive, it needs a steady supply of water. It can swiftly spread from there. It has a mildew-like odor and a slimy appearance. When it comes to black mold, it may be in your best interest to bring in the experts.

Cleaning Time

The time it takes the best mold removers to accomplish their job varies from one product to the next. Some require only a single application, while others require regular maintenance. Reapplying after 15 minutes is required by certain others. Regardless of how you apply the mold killer, it immediately begins to kill the fungus.

In the case of a soapy detergent, you might not let the solution sit at all before getting down to business. In order for the mold killer to penetrate the surface, these detergents need to be brushed into the fabric.

Application

The application of a mold killer can be accomplished in a number of ways. Making the appropriate decision for your mold problem can mean the difference between a successful and unsuccessful outcome. Spray bottles are available for several products. Mold infestations that just require a single application or treatment can benefit greatly from these products.

In certain cases, mold killers come in concentrated form that you mix yourself. As a result, you’re able to fine-tune the strength of the effect between applications. You can use a brush, a sponge, or a mop to apply these. Alternatively, you can fill a spray bottle with the solution.

Various outdoor-oriented products can be attached to the hose’s nozzle. Using a high-volume spray, these mold assassins can be applied to surfaces like driveways, decks, and siding.

Ease of Use

Mold is an unpleasant substance, and removing it can be difficult. You can, however, select a product that is simple to use. Spray solutions are the most common and easiest-to-use items. Shots are fired by merely pointing the bottle at the problem.

An attachment that pumps solution via your hose’s stream is much easier to utilize while treating the exterior of your home. As opposed to spraying, you may cover more ground in less time using this method.

Depending on the nature of your mold problem, you may be better off using treatments that you spray and then forget about. When working in small spaces, such as behind a toilet or under a sink cabinet, this can be a great advantage

Our Top Picks

As soon as you’ve determined what to look for in a mold remover, you’re ready to get started on the remediation process. If you’re looking to rid your home of mold, the following is a list of the top mold removers you may employ.

Mold killers, on the other hand, won’t function for long if you don’t fix the condition that brought on the mold in the first place. Even if you remove the mold-affected item, the moisture source can reappear in as little as two days.

RMR-86 Instant Mold and Mildew Stain Remover Spray

The RMR-86 gets to work right away. In 15 minutes, it can eliminate most mold spots. Let the spray linger on the affected area for a few minutes before wiping it off. There is no need for scrubbing. The wet, moldy odor should be eliminated with this spray, making your home smell clean again. On most surfaces, RMR-86 is safe to use, including drywall and vinyl siding, concrete, brick, and tiles in the kitchen and bathroom. There is a 32-ounce spray bottle of this product for sale.

Pros

  • Mold is rapidly removed.
  • There’s no need to scrub.
  • Most surfaces are safe to use.

Cons

  • Perfumed aroma
  • Short life expectancy

Concrobium Mold Control Household Cleaners

Some molds thrive in wood’s pores, making it an ideal habitat for them. One application of Concrobium Mold Control Household Cleaners can solve your wood mold problem. Mold is crushed and suffocated, and it cannot return. No ammonia or organic substances are used in its production (VOCs). Even though the fumes aren’t as intense, you should still wear a mask when using it. Spray the rotting wood with a thin, even layer of the 1-gallon jug’s contents. Then, let the product to penetrate the surface and work its way into the pores. You can either reapply it or wipe it clean when it dries. No rinsing is necessary, and it may be used on a variety of surfaces, including tile and stone.

Light sanding may be necessary for stubborn spots.

Pros

  • Size of a gallon
  • Suitable for wood, tile, and stone alike
  • There is no ammonia in the air.
  • Easy to put in use

Cons

  • Stains that are particularly difficult to remove may necessitate sanding.

Wet & Forget Shower Cleaner

Basements and drywall aren’t the only places where mold can grow in the home. Even in the shower, mold can form. Using Wet & Forget Shower Cleaner, you can get rid of mold and mildew in your bathroom and prevent it from returning. Your shower, soap dishes, glass doors and other surfaces that are constantly wet should be coated once a week with Wet & Forget and left to deal with mold. An entire bathroom can be mold free for up to 12 weeks with just one half-gallon container. Allow Wet & Forget to dry before rinsing the shower the next day to get it clean.

Pros

  • Prevents the buildup of soap scum
  • All of our products are free of dyes and hazardous gases.
  • Application is as easy as spraying and rinsing.

Cons

  • Pricey

30 SECONDS Cleaners 6430S 3PA

Spray bottles and long, concrete driveways don’t go together at all. To speed up the cleanup process in a moldy environment, the hose-end sprayer from 30 Seconds’ Outdoor Cleaner is recommended. Using your garden hose, spray the entire driveway or patio with the bottle attached. After that, simply let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing it out with fresh water. No need to use a pressure washer or to scrub. Concrete walkways and driveways, fences, outdoor furniture, and siding can all benefit from 30 Seconds Outdoor Cleaner. The company claims that this product is safe to use around plants and grass if used as instructed.

Pros

  • Effortless use
  • Hose attachment is simple and quick.
  • Safe among grass and other vegetation

Cons

  • Several bottles may be needed to cover a wide area.

MOLD ARMOR CLEANER

As a rule of thumb, the side of your house that receives the least sunshine is at risk for mold and mildew growth. It is easy to remove those unsightly stains with Mold Armor Cleaner. Vinyl, aluminum, wood siding, brick, stucco, concrete, decks, and fences are all good candidates for this two-pack of one-gallon jugs. Spray the afflicted area with the solution using a spray bottle or tank sprayer. A sponge, brush or paint roller can be used to apply the wash to more stubborn stains.

Pros

  • able to work with a wide range of mediums
  • Sprays or scrubs on easily.
  • Smells great, too!

Cons

  • Clothes can be stained by bleaching chemicals.

RMR-141 Disinfectant Spray Cleaner

Mold can be difficult to eradicate from carpets. As a result, RMR-141 Disinfectant Spray Cleaner is an excellent choice. Because it doesn’t include bleach or ammonia, it won’t permanently stain your carpet after use. Viruses and bacteria are also killed by this product. On both sides spray the stained area and about 6 inches away and then let it cure for several hours or overnight if possible. The mold will be killed and the odor will be eliminated, but the stain may remain. A carpet-safe stain remover (available here) may be necessary if that’s the case.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Cleaning up messes on the go
  • Destroys bacteria
  • Removes the stink of mold.

Cons

  • It’s possible that more than one application will be needed.

Professional Disinfecting Mildew, Virus & Mold Killer

It’s difficult to deal with moldy walls. Take care of it fast and easily with a product. All the Answers You’ll Ever Need A product called Lemocide is exactly what you’re looking for. Hard surfaces, including walls, can be cleaned and disinfected using this commercial-grade detergent. In 1-gallon jars, you mix the concentrate with water to make a sprayable solution. Spray it on and wait for it to dry. You won’t have to scrape mold out of your home with this mildew, virus, and mold killer in most circumstances.

Pros

  • The long-term answer
  • There’s no need to scrub anything.
  • a program that can be used in various situations
  • Powerful enough for commercial use.

Cons

  • Color and scent are really powerful.

Oxy Solve Total Outdoor Pressure Washer Cleaner

With the help of your pressure washer, Simple Green’s Oxy Solve Total Outdoor Pressure Washer Cleaner eliminates tenacious molds. To eliminate mold and remove stains, this solution employs peroxide. It can be used on a variety of materials, including wood, composites, vinyl, metal, textiles, plastic, wicker, and even concrete, stone, brick, and asphalt. Almost any outdoor task is no match for it. Being 100 percent biodegradable, you can leave it on your boat or dock as well as in your garden. Several outdoor cleaning jobs can be completed with this 1-gallon concentration.

Pros

  • Suitable for a variety of surfaces.
  • Biodegradable to the core
  • In the garden, you can feel secure.

Cons

  • For optimal results, you’ll need a pressure washer.

RMR-141 RTU is a potent and effective compound for preventing the formation of mold and mildew. This mildew spray has been approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as a chemical agent capable of suppressing mildew growth. Is capable of killing mold, mildew, bacteria, and a wide range of other microorganisms. Cleaning, disinfecting, and deodorizing non-porous surfaces are some of its more notable capabilities.

Instant Mold & Mildew Stain Remover | Buy Now | MiracleMist

Keeping in mind that this mold remover is geared toward killing the mold and mildew fungus that may be forming on porous surfaces is a good idea. Mold stains can’t be removed, however. You may need to use a second product to eliminate the discoloration if months or years of mold and mildew buildup have left behind black or green stains.

Not only does this EPA-registered mold remover get rid of existing mold and mildew, but it also prevents new spores from forming. In addition to laminate, sealed fiberglass, acrylic, and glass, MoldArmor Rapid Clean Remediation is safe to use on a lengthy range of non-porous surfaces such as sealed granite and vinyl. This makes it ideal for moist or humid sections of the home, such as the bathroom, laundry room, or a screened porch. If you’re going to use this mold preventative indoors or out, make sure you have a good ventilation system in place.

There’s no need for a separate mold and mildew remover with this one-step sanitizer. To use, simply mist it on the affected area, wait the recommended amount of time for the application, and then wipe or rinse it away. This is a simple and effective way to deal with mold and mildew that is already in your home, while also preventing new growth.

Botanical Decon Disinfectant from Benefect is a plant-based alternative to harsh chemicals for eradicating mold and mildew. The use of mold removers that contain strong chemical agents necessitates the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as goggles or gloves, and the strong fumes they produce necessitate additional ventilation. Botanical Decon, on the other hand, is a milder alternative that contains no chemicals, colors, or other health warnings whatsoever. It’s safe to use on skin, food, and other surfaces without the need for rinsing.

Additionally, this solution has proven successful in its fight against mold and mildew. It’s a mildewstat and fungicidal product that’s registered with the EPA, and it also kills germs and viruses. A key component of the proprietary mixture is Thymol, an ingredient derived from Thyme essential oil. To further prevent mold and mildew from growing, Benefect uses chemistry techniques to develop a long-lasting surfactant system.

Mold and mildew thrive on wood, an organic material that is naturally porous. 3 Discoloration and rot caused by them can be a real nuisance for homeowners. Use EPA-registered Wet and Forget Mold Remover on exposed wood surfaces, such as decking, fencing, and outdoor furniture.

Mold and mildew can begin to be treated as soon as this slow-release chemical penetrates the wood’s porous surface. There are no washing or rinsing requirements and it does not include bleach or caustic ingredients. To get the best effects from this mold remover, you’ll have to wait for a few days or perhaps weeks to see a noticeable improvement in the wood in your home. In addition, the solution is reactivated each time it rains and continues to minimize mold and mildew over time.

You can use Wet and Forget to protect the appearance of your wood after it has been cleaned of mold or mildew. You may simply reapply the solution if you notice mold or mildew re-emerging.

Infestation with mold can cause discoloration and staining of clothes. For outdoor furniture, this is especially true for materials that are exposed to wet, humid conditions. In addition to being convenient, Concrobium Mold Control Aerosol is an excellent technique to eradicate mold from a variety of fabric surfaces.

An aerosol applicator and an effective recipe create a fine mist that covers the entire surface area. When applied according to the instructions, there is no over-saturation. No need to rub or scrub it into your skin. When the product dries, the substance suffocates mold from the inside out. Because this product is EPA-registered and does not include bleach, it is a fantastic choice for treating textiles and other soft materials.

Mold and mildew thrive in bathrooms because of the moist, wet conditions, and it’s not hard to see why. However, with the help of a specialized solution like Microban 24 Bathroom Cleaner, you can defeat mold in the bathroom. This bathroom cleanser is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to removing soap scum, as it will leave hard surfaces sparkling while simultaneously killing hazardous bacteria.

It has been proven efficient against Aspergillus niger,4. This mold remover also cleans and disinfects surfaces, making it a one-step solution for keeping your bathroom free of fungus, germs, and viruses. Apply the EPA-registered Microban 24 every seven days to prevent future mold development after thoroughly cleaning any surfaces impacted by mold or mildew.

Our Verdict

The RMR-86 Instant Mold and Mildew Stain Remover Spray, which comes in a convenient spray bottle, is a powerful mold cleaning that is easy to apply and requires no effort.

How We Chose the Best Mold Removers

Our list of recommendations includes a wide array of mold-fighting solutions that can be utilized in a wide range of conditions. In order to offer customers the greatest goods in their respective categories, we made certain to include options for all sorts of mold and surfaces.

Our top options for this list were chosen based on the amount of time they would take to clean, therefore we selected a variety of products ranging from fast-acting chemicals that were simple to apply and required little or no scrubbing to more strong and involved remedies for more stubborn stains.

For those who have pets or young children—or even delicate gardens—we’ve included environmentally friendly options so that a mold problem can be solved with a gentler solution that won’t harm the health of plants, animals, or people in the treated area. Many mold removers contain harmful chemicals to do the job effectively.

How to Get Rid of Mold From Every Home Surface

Mold spores can be found in virtually any climate. One of the most important aspects of mold is that it is a fungus, and some mold varieties are incredibly useful to humans (think of penicillin).

Dangerous Mold vs. Mildew

Mildew is the most prevalent mold detected in dwellings. Mildew is a type of surface mold that thrives in warm, moist environments, such as your bathroom or in damp basements where clothes and books are stored. To begin with, mildew appears as a whitish or grayish colony. If left alone, it will darken to a brown or black color and resemble a buildup of earth. Dab the spot with a cotton swab dipped in household chlorine bleach to see if it’s covered with mildew or merely dirty. It’s mildew if the stain fades or disappears within a few minutes. There’s a good chance it’s just dirt.

The smell of mold is a sign that your home has a high concentration of the mold spores. Your home’s damp crawlspace, damp towels in the hamper, or moldy carpet padding could all be the source of the odor. To get rid of the stink, you’ll need to take immediate action.

All molds are mildew, but not all mildews are molds.. While mildew can discolor and slowly degrade surfaces, molds can cause much more serious damage to your home’s structure. It’s time to remove the mold and damaged drywall or wood quickly if you discover a black or green mold that’s fuzzy or slimy and the underside is mushy or crumbly. 1

Hiring Professionals

A mildew infestation can be treated using home cleaners if discovered early enough.

WARNING

Consider hiring a specialist if your mold problem is severe.

If the mold spreads to more than 10 square feet, it’s time to bring in a specialist. 2 It is necessary to use powerful chemicals and dispose of infected building components in order to remove huge mold colonies. Public health departments in your area can guide you through the mold testing process and provide you with the name of a mold removal professional in your area.

Products That Kill Mold

  • To kill mold and remove discoloration, use sodium hypochlorite or normal home bleach. Before applying, it should be diluted with water. 3

WARNING

Use extreme caution when working with bleach to avoid breathing in potentially harmful vapors. Bleach and ammonia should not be used together at any point in time.

  • Hydrogen peroxide (three to ten percent solution): Hydrogen peroxide kills mold and lightens stains. Bleaching effect is still present but it takes longer than chlorine bleach and there are no odors or residues to deal with.
  • One of the most effective ways to get rid of mold is to use distilled white vinegar. It’s possible to remove mold stains using vinegar, but you may need to use a household cleaning as well.
  • Each has a high pH that hinders the growth and survival of mold: Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and borax They’re both cheap, safe, and simple to mix with water. Baking soda works better than borax in removing stubborn stains, but it falls short of the power of a more powerful cleaner.

If you’re going to use any of these, don’t get rid of the cleaning solution entirely. In order to prevent future mold growth, leave a small amount of the cleanser behind.

Removing Mold From Fabric

Because mold and germs can thrive for days or weeks after a flood, cloth goods may be unsalvageable. Mildew, on the other hand, may be easily cleaned from most fabrics if found early enough.

Begin by removing the objects from your home to remove as much surface mold as possible and to avoid the spread of mold spores inside. The warmest water specified on the care label should be used, along with a disinfectant, if the fabric can be cleaned. If the stains persist, soak the garments in an oxygen bleach solution for at least eight hours. On any washable fabric, oxygen bleach can be used. 3

Once mildew has been brushed away outside, take your dry clean only clothes into a professional cleaner. Make a list of the spots on the clothing that need attention so that the cleaners know exactly where to start.

Removing Mold From Leather Shoes, Coats, Accessories, and Furniture

If you can, remove mold from leather items such as jackets, shoes, handbags, and furniture outside. Use distilled white vinegar and warm water to clean the surface, followed by a decent leather soap and water. After wiping the surface with a soft cloth, allow it to air dry fully. Apply a leather conditioner after it has been allowed to air dry completely.

Removing Mold From Books and Papers

Paper can be destroyed by mold, although books and papers can be cleaned of mold. Professional curators should be sought after for pricey books and historical documents.

Wet paper should never be treated in any way. Because of this, the mold will spread and be nearly impossible to remove. Place books in a covered container with moisture absorbent material like silica gel or cornstarch scattered between the pages to allow the paper to dry thoroughly in the sun.

When the book has dried, take it outside and carefully brush the mildew off the cover and each page using a gentle paintbrush or towel. Wax paper should be slipped under each page to protect the page behind it. Use hydrogen peroxide to dampen a clean, soft cloth before wiping down each page. Let the cloth dry completely before going on to the next page.

Removing Mold From Household Appliances

When water, heat, or food are present, mold growth can occur. This is why appliances like washing machines, refrigerators, and coffee makers need to be cleaned frequently.

At the very least, perform a hot water cycle with chlorine bleach in the washers (without any clothing in them). Check the door seals of front-load washers for any signs of mold growth that could lead to musty-smelling clothing.

Clean refrigerators and coffee machines with distilled white vinegar to prevent mold growth.

Removing Mold From Tile and Grout

Mold thrives in a moist and soiled environment like the bathroom. Commercial cleaners are available, but chlorine bleach and water are equally as effective and considerably less expensive.

If you have mold in your home, all you need to do is combine 1 part bleach to 16 parts water (a one cup of bleach to one gallon of water). Before scrubbing or withdrawing, let the solution sit on the moldy area for at least 15 minutes. Make sure to leave the windows open as you clean to ensure that they are completely dry. 3

Removing Mold From Interior Walls, Flooring, and Carpet

Fuzzy and black mold is a sign of something more serious than merely an eyesore. To inspect for structural damage, the space should be opened up. Wear eye and ear protection, as well as a respirator. Every piece of construction waste should be sealed in heavy-duty plastic bags before being hauled away for proper disposal. Make any necessary repairs after allowing the affected area to completely dry out.

To help the bleach and water solution stick to porous surfaces like wood and drywall for mold removal, a detergent should be added. Dishwasher detergent, bleach, and water in a ratio of one part to ten parts. Use a sponge or mop to apply, being careful not to over-saturate the areas being treated. Allow the solution to dry naturally before rinsing it off. 4

Any carpet that has mold or a musty odor should be thrown out. Wearing a face mask, cut the carpet and pad into small pieces. To assist prevent the transmission of mold spores through the air, mist the materials and subflooring with water. To dispose of the carpet, wrap it tightly in heavy plastic. Before installing new flooring, thoroughly clean the area with a wet/dry vacuum.

Removing Mold From Exterior Home Surfaces

Despite its effectiveness in cleaning siding, concrete, brick, and stone from various materials (including chlorine bleach), chlorine bleach can harm plants and lawns. Any plants that could be damaged should have heavy plastic sheeting placed over them. 3

One gallon of water and one cup of chlorine bleach. You can use a garden sprayer, a power washer, or even your hands to clean with this solution. Make sure you’re wearing safety glasses, gloves, clothes, and a respirator at all times. Any fabric exposed to the bleach solution will lose its color.

Allow the bleach and water solution to work for several minutes on the moldy spots. Make a new location if the mold clears up. If stains persist, thoroughly scrub the affected area before re-applying a bleach/water solution. Allow the garment to dry naturally.

Clear any adjacent vegetation with a hose and water.

FAQs

The greatest mold removers are out there if you still have questions regarding which one is the best. There is a great deal to learn. The following is a list of frequently asked questions and their answers. Contact the manufacturer if you can’t find an answer here.

What does mold smell like?

Molds can have no odor at all. Instead, black mold has an earthy, mildewy aroma that is reminiscent of soil.

What does black mold look like?

Patchy and greenish-black in hue, black mold has a spotty appearance and can also appear brown or gray.

11 Best Shower Cleaners For Mold And Mildew (2022)

Does mold come back after cleaning?

Mold will reappear if you don’t get rid of the source of the moisture. If you simply bleach the surface of drywall, you won’t eradicate the mold’s roots that are buried deep in the substance. Within a day or two, the mold may rebloom.

What are the effects of mold?

Mold can harm your house and your health in a number of ways. It has the ability to disintegrate materials like wood and drywall. Respiratory issues, cold-like symptoms, eye irritation, and skin irritation are all possible side effects.

How do mold removers work?

Mold-removal products operate by destroying the mold’s spores (or roots), not by just killing the mold itself. Most recipes ask you to wait at least 15 minutes after applying the product. During this time, the product is removing mold spores at the root and cleansing and sanitizing the treated surface at the same time, Most mold removers also leave behind an antibacterial covering that prevents further mold growth. 5

Are mold removers safe?

It is safe for homeowners to use mold removers as long as they follow the manufacturer’s guidelines exactly. But it is crucial to follow any ventilation or personal protection instructions, such as wearing a mask while applying mold remover. Applying the product without gloves can cause skin irritation, so be sure to follow the instructions carefully.

When should I call a professional?

There are some varieties of mold, such as “black mold” (also known as Stachybotrys chartarum), that may require a professional to remove, even if safety measures are taken. drywall, gypsum board, and wood are all porous substrates that can support the growth of this slimy, green-black mold. Toxic spores can cause respiratory issues and disease if inhaled. 6

If your efforts to clean and eradicate the mold are unsuccessful or the problem quickly reappears, you may want to seek mold remediation services. In order to prevent the mold from returning, it’s best to consult with an expert who can assist you determine what kind of mold you’re dealing with.

Helen Skeates

Helen Skeates

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