10 Things to Know About
Using Eucalyptus Oil for Mould Removal
What is Eucalyptus Oil?
Eucalyptus essential oil is a natural oil derived from the leaves of eucalyptus trees. Native to Australia, it has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties, and it is also effective for mould removal. Eucalyptus oil has a strong, refreshing scent and contains compounds (cineole and eucalyptol) with antifungal and antibacterial properties that can effectively kill mould spores. It is an excellent choice for combating mould and mildew in your home.
If you have severe mould infestations in your home, you will likely require professional services, such as Absolute Mould Removal’s cost-effective mould cleaning service in Perth.
Eucalyptus Oil Benefits
Using eucalyptus oil for mould removal offers several advantages over conventional and chemical-based mould cleaners. Here’s a summary of the benefits of using eucalyptus oil for mould removal:
Benefit | Eucalyptus oil | Benefit | Eucalyptus oil |
Natural | ✅ | Affordable and readily available | ✅ |
Effective against mould | ✅ | Environmentally friendly | ✅ |
Pleasant aroma | ✅ | Additional health benefits | ✅ |
Versatile | ✅ | Easy to use | ✅ |
Top 10 things you need to know about using one of the best essential oils for mould removal
Natural and Non-Toxic
Eucalyptus essential oil is a natural, non-toxic alternative to harsh chemical cleaning products. If used correctly, it is safe to use around children and pets. Unlike chemical-based cleaners, eucalyptus oil has a refreshing aroma that can purify the air, leaving your home smelling clean and fresh. Moreover, eucalyptus oil not only eliminates existing mould but also helps prevent its growth in damp areas.Eco-Friendly
By using eucalyptus oil, you are choosing a more sustainable and eco-friendly option for mould removal. As a natural mould removal product, eucalyptus oil is biodegradable, environmentally friendly, and safe to use indoors.Affordable
Eucalyptus oil is an inexpensive mould removal solution compared to commercial cleaners. When using essential oils, you only need to add a few drops to a cup of water to use it as a mould cleaning solution. This means a 50 ml bottle of eucalyptus oil will likely make around 2.5 litres of mould cleaning solution.Multipurpose
There are numerous uses for eucalyptus oil. It can be used on a variety of surfaces, including walls, floors, and furniture, and it is also effective in preventing mould growth in bathrooms and kitchens. In addition to mould removal, eucalyptus oil can also be used for aromatherapy purposes, and it can provide respiratory benefits, opening up airways and relieving congestion. It can also be used as a disinfectant, fabric and air freshener, and insect repellent.Readily Available
Eucalyptus oil can be easily purchased online or in health food stores. Many supermarkets also stock many well-known and commonly used essential oils, so don’t forget to check your local store the next time you go shopping.Eucalyptus Oil on Non-Porous Surfaces
Eucalyptus oil can be used on various non-porous surfaces, including walls, ceilings, tiles, glass, kitchen and bathroom surfaces, ceramics, stainless steel, grout, plastic, and certain fabrics. It is important to patch-test it on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it does not cause any damage or staining.Eucalyptus Oil on Porous Surfaces
Eucalyptus oil cannot sufficiently penetrate porous materials to kill the mould below the surface, so we advise against using eucalyptus oil on drywall, wallpaper, carpet, and unsealed wood.Safety Precautions and PPE
While eucalyptus oil is generally safe, if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional before using eucalyptus oil.Proper ventilation during mould removal
Proper ventilation is crucial when using eucalyptus oil for mould removal. The oil’s strong scent can be overpowering when used in enclosed spaces. You should open windows and use fans to increase airflow during the mould removal process. Ensure that the room is well-ventilated to prevent any potential respiratory irritations.
Storage
Store eucalyptus oil in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat. This will help maintain its potency and extend its shelf life. Eucalyptus oil is also flammable, so make sure you keep it away from any open flames.
PPE for Eucalyptus Oil
Protective measures must be taken when handling and using eucalyptus oil. You should always wear gloves, safety goggles, and a mask to minimise skin contact and inhalation of the oil’s concentrated form.
Additionally, it is important to keep the oil out of reach of children and pets, as high concentrations can be toxic when ingested.Easy to Use
Always dilute
Eucalyptus oil is potent but safe to use around humans and pets when used properly. However, it is important to dilute it (in water or a carrier oil like coconut or almond oil) before use and avoid direct contact with the skin or eyes. Mix a few drops of eucalyptus oil (about 5 ml) with one cup of water in a spray bottle for easy application. Shake well before using.
You can make a DIY eucalyptus oil cleaning solution with water only, or you can add white vinegar and a few drops of tea tree oil or a ¼ teaspoon of clove oil. Each of these is used in natural cleaning solutions as they all naturally work against mould and fungal household issues while disinfecting surfaces and inhibiting regrowth. Moreover, research has shown that essential oils not only exhibit antifungal properties, but they are also naturally antiseptic and antiviral.
How to remove mould with eucalyptus oil
- Before using eucalyptus oil, it’s important to properly clean the affected area to remove any visible mould. This will ensure that the oil can penetrate the surface and kill any remaining mould spores.
- Spray your eucalyptus oil cleaning solution onto the affected area and let it sit for at least 15 minutes. This will give the oil enough time to penetrate the mould and kill it.
- Use a scrub brush or sponge to scrub the area gently and remove any remaining mould. Be sure to wear gloves and protective eyewear to avoid direct contact with the mould.
- After scrubbing the area, wipe it down with a clean microfibre cloth or sponge. This will help remove any loosened mould and ensure a thorough clean.
- Repeat the process as needed until all the mould is removed. It may take several applications, especially for extensive mould growth. Stubborn mould may require multiple applications, so don’t get discouraged if the first attempt doesn’t entirely eliminate it.
Regularly cleaning and drying surfaces can help prevent mould growth. Using eucalyptus oil as a preventive measure can create an inhospitable environment for mould spores.
Preventing mould from growing in the first place is the most effective method of removing mould. To prevent mould from spreading, it’s essential to eliminate the conditions that allow it to thrive, such as high humidity, inadequate ventilation, condensation build-up, and leaks.
If you need professional services for mould remediation to eradicate mould from your house, don’t hesitate to contact our friendly Absolute staff on 1300 902 362 or book online.