10 Things to Know About
Using Clove Oil for Mould Removal

 Here are 10 things to know about using clove oil for mould removal.

1. Antifungal

    
   Clove oil is a natural fungicide as it contains a compound called eugenol, which has powerful antifungal and antimicrobial properties. Eugenol works by disrupting the cell membranes of mould spores, causing them to break down and die. In this way, clove oil can effectively kill mould and prevent its growth. Moreover, clove oil helps to inhibit mould regrowth, providing long-lasting protection against fungi and mould.

2. Eco-friendly

    
   Unlike many chemical-based mould removal products, using clove oil to kill mould is an environmentally friendly and biodegradable choice, as it is derived from natural sources and doesn’t release harmful chemicals into the air or water. However, it can be dangerous if ingested, so keep it away from children and pets. 

3. You’ll need PPE

    
   Clove oil can be a great natural alternative to bleach and other chemical-based mould removal products, however, that does not mean you should throw caution to the wind. To protect your skin, eyes and lungs while dealing with clove oil, you must wear personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves, goggles, and an N95 face mask. Clove oil can irritate the skin and cause allergic reactions or respiratory problems in people who are sensitive to it. 

4. Cost-effective 

    
   Clove oil offers a cost-effective solution that is widely accessible and affordable. It can be purchased easily at health stores, pharmacies, and online retailers. While pure clove oil can be relatively expensive, a little goes a long way, making it a cost-effective option for mould removal. For example, mix a ¼ teaspoon of clove oil with two cups of water for mould removal, and this mixture should last for a few months. 

5. Multiple uses

    
   In addition to its antifungal properties, clove oil also has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. Moreover, clove oil can be effective against different types of mould, including black mould and mildew. This multipurpose essential oil can also for other cleaning purposes, such as disinfecting surfaces and eliminating odours. Clove oil can even be used as a natural insect repellent. 

6. Dilution and timing are key

    
   Clove oil must always be diluted, as it can be potent and may irritate the skin and mucous membranes. Pure clove oil can also damage surfaces, so it’s best to use with caution. You can dilute clove oil with carrier oils like coconut or jojoba oil, but for cleaning purposes, we recommend diluting with water. 

   When it comes to timing, clove oil does take longer to work. Whereas commercial mould cleaning products usually need a few minutes to work, clove oil needs to stay on surfaces for at least an hour. Some surfaces may even benefit from leaving the clove oil to work overnight for up to 24 hours. This extra time allows the clove oil to penetrate the mould and break down its structure. Clove oil also requires repeated applications and diligent scrubbing to fully eradicate the mould. 

7. Clove oil on porous surfaces

    
   Clove oil may not be suitable for all porous surfaces, such as drywall, as it may penetrate too deeply and cause damage; however, it can be used on leather. Clove oil can also cause discolouration on certain materials, so it’s important to test it on a small, inconspicuous area first. 

8. Clove oil on non-porous surfaces

    
   Clove oil can be used as a mould remover on a variety of non-porous, hard surfaces, including painted walls, tiles, glass, vinyl, ceramic, plastic, fabrics, and kitchen and bathroom surfaces. However, clove oil can leave behind a yellowish stain on some surfaces, so it’s always a good idea to test it on a small area first to ensure it doesn’t cause any damage or stains. Notably, clove oil should not be used on marble or polymarble, as it will damage these surfaces. 

9. Safety precautions

    
   Clove oil should not be used during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or by individuals with certain medical conditions. According to Healthline, clove oil should never be ingested as this can result in breathing problems, irritation in the airways and stomach, as well as diarrhoea. It’s highly unlikely that you’ll ingest any clove oil when cleaning mould, but children and pets may accidentally consume it, so it’s best to keep clove oil far away from these vulnerable loved ones. 

   Because of clove oil’s strong, distinct aroma, it’s important to make sure that the area is very well-ventilated. Some people may also find this scent overpowering and unpleasant. Open doors and windows and use fans to help disperse any strong odours and fumes. 

   Remember to wear your PPE, and protect your eyes! When applying or handling clove oil, be careful to avoid contact with your eyes. If contact occurs, rinse your eyes thoroughly with clean water. Some sources also suggest rinsing your eyes with clean water for at least 10 minutes. If the irritation persists, seek medical attention from a healthcare professional as soon as possible. 

   It’s also important to note that clove oil should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain its potency and quality.

10. Easy application 

     
    Using clove oil for mould removal is simple. Basically, all you need to do is dilute it, apply it to the affected area using a spray bottle or cloth, and let it sit for at least an hour before wiping it away.