How to Paint Over Moldy Bathroom Walls

Mold growth is often a problem in bathrooms because of the presence of wet, warm conditions in which mold and mildew thrive. The fungi that collectively comprise mold can stain painted surfaces permanently. Paint won't kill mold and mildew, and mold stains will bleed through new paint if the fungus is not removed first. Proper surface preparation, a special primer coat and mold-resistant new paint are keys to painting over mold-prone bathroom walls.

Cleaning pails
Liquid detergent
Fan
Clean rags and lint-free cloths
Bleach
Stain-blocking primer
Paintbrushes
Mold-resistant paint

Instructions

- 1
  Scrub your moldy bathroom walls with 1 gallon of warm water mixed with ¼ cup liquid detergent. Rinse with clear water and a clean rag. Run a fan to speed drying while you wipe the walls dry with a lint-free cloth.
- 2
  Prepare a bleach solution of three parts water to one part bleach in a clean pail. Wash the walls with this mixture. Allow them to quickly air dry, aided by a fan. Some mold or mildew stains may be visible even after bleaching.
- 3
  Apply a coat of stain-blocking and mold/mildew-covering primer. Allow the primer to dry completely. Apply a second coat of primer if you can see any stains after the first coat.
- 4
  Paint your bathroom walls with a paint that is specially formulated for surfaces that are susceptible to mold and mildew. Read paint cans carefully to ensure you are buying the appropriate paint.

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