How to Kill & Clean Mold With Bleach

According to the Connecticut Department of Public Health, mold must have a damp environment, organic food source and temperate temperatures to survive. In fact, mold can germinate after a flood in 12 hours. Homeowners can come back after a floor or water leak to find mold growth covering wood, papers, ceiling tiles, insulation and wall boards. It is imperative to clean mold to prevent health problems for home occupants. Respiratory problems, headaches, nausea and memory loss all can be attributed to mold in the home.

Garbage bag
Household cleaner
Paper towels
Bucket
Bleach
Sponge
Dehumidifier
Fan
HEPA vacuum
Detergent
Washer
Goggles
Mask
Gloves

Instructions

- 1
  Remove everything from the room even if it is not around the visible mold growth. Mold spores can travel through the home's air circulation and get on any organic material in the home. Throw away papers, carpet padding, drywall or insulation that has mold growth.
- 2
  Clean the mold growth with a regular household product that does not contain ammonia. Wipe down furniture, walls, counter tops, pantries and sub flooring with cleaner and paper towels.
- 3
  Mix together one part bleach with nine parts water. Dip a sponge in the mixture and clean off all areas of mold growth and non-porous materials such as metals, glass and plastic objects. Allow the bleach to dry without wiping up.
- 4
  Place a dehumidifier in the room. Open the windows if it is not humid outside and place fans in the window. Give the bleach six to ten hours to dry.
- 5
  Rent a HEPA vacuum from your local HEPA vacuum rental center. Check out the link in resources for one in your area. Fill the vacuum with the recommended cleaner and spend one minute per one square inch of carpeting. Dump the liquid after cleaning in an outside drain.

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