How To Clean Mould Off Walls
Mould is a problem that many homeowners regularly face, especially in areas with high humidity. Australia is no exception. Mould can also cause health problems if left untreated, not to mention that it’s just plain unsightly. Luckily, mould removal can be done in just a few steps.
In this article, we’ll guide you through a step-by-step process to effectively get rid of mould from your walls. We’ll also detail what you need and give you some mould prevention tips, as well as ways to help prevent mould from returning.
However, if your mould infestation is severe, consider a professional mould cleaning service, such as Absolute Mould Removal‘s affordable mould removal in Perth.
Items You Need to Clean Mould off Walls
Before you start your mould removal process, gather the necessary items you will need for the task. To start, make sure you have the following safety gear, often referred to as personal protective equipment (PPE).| Gloves | Face mask | Eye protection | Protective clothing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wear protective gloves made of nitrile, rubber, or latex to prevent skin irritation or allergies from direct contact with the mould or cleaning solutions. | Use an N95 respirator or a simple face mask to avoid inhaling mould spores. Breathing in mould spores can lead to respiratory issues. | Wear goggles to prevent mould particles or cleaning solutions from entering your eyes. | Wear old, long-sleeved shirts and pants to cover your skin during the cleaning process. Remove these clothes immediately after cleaning and wash them separately. |
| Mould-cleaning solution | Many homeowners have successfully removed mould with natural products and remedies. However, you may need to purchase a commercial mould remover for stubborn fungus. (See Step 2 below for more on mould-cleaning solutions.) |
| Soft-bristled brush or sponge | Use a soft, non-abrasive brush or sponge to clean the mould off walls without damaging the paint or wall surface. Microfibre cloths can also be used. |
| Bucket | Have a large bucket or container ready to hold your cleaning solution and a separate container for rinsing your sponge or brush. |
| Plastic sheeting | Cover large areas or furniture with plastic sheeting to prevent cross-contamination. Plastic sheeting will also protect unaffected areas from the cleaning solution. |
| Fans/dehumidifiers | Good ventilation and moisture control are essential during and after the cleaning process. Use fans or dehumidifiers to speed up drying time and minimise the chance of mould regrowth. |
Steps to Clean Mould off Walls
Prepare the Area
Remove furniture, carpets, and decorations from the room to prevent damage or cross-contamination during the cleaning process. Cover any remaining items with plastic sheeting or tarps to protect them from splashes of cleaning solution. Open windows and doors for proper ventilation.Prepare Your Cleaning Solution
The most commonly used natural mould-cleaning options include borax, vinegar, bicarbonate of soda (baking soda), and tea tree oil. These natural products are easily accessible, eco-friendly, and cost-effective.Natural options How to use Borax Mix a tablespoon of borax with a cup of water. Apply to the affected area. Let it sit for 3 and 5 minutes. Vinegar Apply undiluted white vinegar to the affected area. Let it sit and work into the mould for an hour. Bicarbonate of soda / baking soda Mix one teaspoon of bicarb with ± 300 ml water. Apply to the affected area. Let it sit for 3 and 5 minutes. Tea tree oil Mix 5 ml of tea tree oil with a cup of water. Let it sit and work into the mould for an hour. You may need to use professional or commercial products on older, extensive, or severe mould infestations, or you may need to enlist the services of mould remediation experts who can ensure total mould removal and prevention of future issues. It’s also worth noting that natural mould-removing products may not work on black mould. Below are some examples of worthwhile and popular professional mould-cleaning products.
Professional products How to use Concrobium Mould Control Spray Spray onto the affected wall, let it dry, and then remove any mould residue with a microfibre cloth or soft brush. Ajax Professional Mould Remover Spray onto the mouldy area, let it sit and work for 5 minutes. Then wipe the surface with water. Selleys Rapid Mould Killer Spray onto the affected area, leave it to work for 3 minutes, then wipe or scrub off with a soft-bristled brush. Put on Your PPE
Never forget: safety first. Before starting the cleaning process, put on your gloves, face mask, eye protection, and protective clothing to reduce the risk of exposure to mould spores and cleaning agents.Apply the Mould-Cleaning Solution
Dip your soft-bristled brush or sponge into the solution, and gently scrub the mouldy area using a circular motion. Take care not to soak the wall too much, as excessive moisture can damage it and promote further mould growth. Follow the instructions, depending on your chosen mould cleaner.Remember to read all product labels carefully and follow all safety precautions.
Rinse the Wall
Use a clean, damp sponge or soft cloth to remove the excess cleaning solution and mould residue from the wall. Be sure to frequently rinse the sponge or cloth in a separate container of clean water to avoid spreading the mould.Dry the Wall
Use a dry cloth or towel to blot any remaining moisture from the wall. Leave windows and doors open, and use fans or dehumidifiers to accelerate the drying process. Drying the wall is key for mould and mildew prevention, so make sure the wall dries quickly and thoroughly.Dispose of Cleaning Materials
After you’ve cleaned the mould and dried the walls, seal the used sponges, cloths, or brushes in a plastic bag and dispose of them properly. Wash your protective clothing separately from your regular laundry. Disposing of materials correctly will stop the mould from spreading.Inspect the Wall for Any Remaining Mould
Once the wall is dry, inspect it carefully for any signs of remaining mould. If necessary, repeat the cleaning process to ensure that all traces of mould are removed.To minimise the chances of mould growing back, tackle the source of moisture and maintain a consistent indoor humidity level (between 30% and 60%). Install dehumidifiers or use exhaust fans in high-humidity areas like bathrooms and kitchens.
Expert Tips for Cleaning Mould off Walls
Here are some expert tips to help you clean mould off walls effectively and safely:
- Don’t use bleach. Bleach is often cited as a great way to get rid of mould and fungus on walls and ceilings, but bleach will not kill the mould, it will only make it lighter. Using bleach will result in mould regrowth.
- If mould has penetrated deep into your wall materials or covered a large area (more than 10 square feet), you should consult a mould remediation specialist or professional mould removal service to ensure proper removal and prevent further damage to your property.
- Test a small, inconspicuous area of the wall with your chosen cleaning solution to ensure that it will not cause any discolouration or damage to the surface before applying it to the entire mould-affected area.
- Avoid using a damp cloth to dry the wall after cleaning, as this can leave moisture behind and promote mould growth. Instead, use a clean, dry towel or cloth to absorb any remaining moisture. Remember to dispose of cleaning materials.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Mould off Walls
While cleaning mould off walls, avoiding these common mistakes will ensure a successful and safe process:
Ignoring safety precautions
Failing to wear protective gloves, a face mask, or eye protection can lead to skin irritation, respiratory issues, or eye injuries. Always adhere to safety guidelines when handling mould-infested materials and cleaning solutions.
Using a harsh scrubber
Using rough or abrasive scrubbers can damage the wall surface, paint, or wallpaper when you’re cleaning or trying to remove mould. Instead, use a soft-bristled brush or sponge to gently apply the solution and clean the surface.
Forgetting to address the source of moisture
Simply cleaning the mould off your walls is not enough, as it may return if the underlying moisture problem is not addressed. Inspect your home for signs of leaks, excess condensation, or improper ventilation, and take corrective measures to prevent future mould growth.
Skipping the drying process
Leaving walls damp after cleaning can encourage mould regrowth. Properly dry the area after cleaning and maintain good ventilation to minimise the chances of future infestations.
If your DIY attempts have not effectively removed mould in your home, you may need a professional’s service. Call our friendly and professional team on 1300 902 362 or make a booking online.
Wall Mould Removal FAQs
What is the fastest way to remove mould from walls?
Depending on the severity, follow our step-by-step guide to quickly remove mould from your walls. The only real difference in time is how long you need to let the cleaning solution sit and work into the mould. And of course, the bigger the area, the longer it will take to remove the mould.
Does vinegar kill mould on walls?
Yes. Vinegar is both effective and cheap, and it is often used as the first option for removing and treating mould.
How do you remove mould from walls without damaging paint?
To avoid damaging paint, make sure you use microfibre cloths or soft-bristled brushes, and follow our step-by-step guide. You should also read and follow all product details and instructions carefully to prevent any damage to your walls.
Is it bad to sleep in a room with mould?
You are more likely to develop health issues with your immune system if you have mould in your home. Moreover, respiratory issues such as infections, allergies, and asthma can all be caused and worsened by breathing in mould spores and/or sleeping in a damp environment.
