Bleach Mix to Kill Fungus on Wood

Resolve Moisture Problem

• Before you can effectively kill, remove and clean fungus from a wood surface, you first have to resolve the moisture problem that caused the growth. This process will vary depending on your particular moisture problem. Common ways to reduce moisture buildup include increasing sunlight to indoor rooms, running a dehumidifier or fan, cracking windows to release the moisture buildup from winter furnace heating, increasing air circulation or simply wiping or mopping up moisture from the ground on both indoor and outdoor surfaces.

Safety Precautions

• Before you begin to clean the fungus from the wood, put on rubber gloves, protective eyewear and a dust mask. If you have respiratory sensitivities, you may want to wear an OSHA-approved respirator mask, especially if the fungus buildup is significant. When working indoors with fungus and bleach, always increase ventilation by opening doors and windows. Never mix bleach with any additional household cleaners, especially ammonia.

Preparing the Solution

• Prepare a chlorine bleach solution to clean the surface and kill the fungus. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a solution of 10 parts water and one part chlorine bleach is adequate for cleaning mold and fungus from surfaces, including wood.

Application

• Pour the solution into a spray bottle then apply it over the affected area. You want to wet the fungus, before you scrub, to avoid releasing harmful spores into the air. After the fungus is wet, wipe the fungus away with a rag or paper towel.

Aftercare

• After you have removed the fungus with the bleach solution, clean the area a second time with a solution of water and liquid dish washing soap. This will help remove any additional spores and prevent the wood from becoming stained. Rinse the area with a damp rag or sponge then dry off the surface thoroughly. If the area is extensive, set up a portable fan in front of it and let it run until the wood is completely dry.

Professional Help

• If you are faced with extensive mold and fungal growth on wood surfaces, then your best option is to contact a professional restoration company. Once mold penetrates deeply into the pores of wood, it can be difficult to remove with just bleach. A restoration company is familiar with the right cleaning techniques and has the cleaning supplies necessary to save the wood.