Natural Ways to Remove Mold
- Vinegar is an inexpensive, natural option when it comes to killing mold. Place white distilled vinegar in a spray bottle and cover the mold-ridden area. Allow it to sit on the surface for several hours to ensure that all of the mold is killed. You can also mix a cup of vinegar with a couple of ounces of borax to create a spray and allow the mixture to sit on the area for approximately 30 to 60 minutes before wiping it off. If you prefer a thicker consistency for your mold remover, combine two parts baking soda with one part of a vinegar and water solution to create a paste that can be applied directly to mold. Once it dries, scrub off the paste to remove the mold.
- Tea tree oil is an extremely effective natural substance for removing mold and has antimicrobial properties, which increases its cleaning power. It can work on a variety of surfaces as well, ranging from ceilings to shower curtains. However, tea tree oil does have a strong scent so if you are sensitive to smells, it might not be the best option. Mix 1 to 2 tsp. of the oil with 2 cups of water to create a solution that can be placed in a spray bottle. Apply the mixture to the moldy area and allow it to dry. For maximum effectiveness, the tea tree oil solution should not be rinsed.
- If you have hydrogen peroxide in your medicine cabinet, it can do double duty as an effective mold remover. Mix a half cup with 1 cup of warm water and cover the affected areas. Allow the mixture to dry without rinsing it away. Hydrogen peroxide is an especially useful option when dealing with mold that forms on more delicate surfaces, such as fabric or wallpaper.
- If the scent of tea tree oil is too strong for you, grapefruit seed extract is a suitable alternative for removing mold because it has no scent. Combine approximately 20 drops of the extract with 2 cups of warm water and fill a spray bottle. Apply the mixture to the affected areas and allow it to dry without rinsing. If you have another type of citrus seed extract on hand, you can substitute it for the grapefruit extract.