The moment residents find that they have mould, shock quickly gives way to confusion. There being so many DIY methods that have been tried and so much incorrect information distributed freely on the internet, sooner rather than later, one is left using popular Mould Removal Myths that will equal nothing but damage.
Most of these so-called “home remedy” quick fixes will do nothing, and worse still, harm you. To help you vanquish the mould once and for all, we’re busting the top 10 mould removal myths and revealing what works, by established science and field-tested technology.
Myth 1: Bleach Kills All Mould Completely
The Truth:
Bleach will kill surface mould on hard, non-porous surfaces like glass or tiles. It won’t penetrate porous surfaces like ceiling tiles, drywall, or wood, where the mould spores are well into the inside. Bleach will bleach the stain but won’t kill the source.
What Works:
Apply mould removal special chemicals to absorbent surfaces in neat solution, such as hydrogen peroxide or white vinegar. In severe infestation, you will have to replace and dispose of infected material entirely.
Myth 2: If You Can’t See Mould, It’s Not There
The Truth:
Mould will likely be hiding in those out-of-sight areas behind walls, under carpets, in air vents, or in attics, where you can’t see. You may not always be able to see mould on a surface, but things may already be desperate.
What Works:
Seek the more dangerous signs, such as the formation of a damp smell, heightened allergic reactions, or water spots. In uncertainty, have a professional conduct a test for mould by using the application of moisture measurements and infrared tools, which will detect concealed mould.
Myth 3: A Little Mould is Harmless
The Reality:
Mould in little areas emits smells and spores into the environment and infects indoor air and causing respiratory sickness, particularly to children, the sick, or those with an impaired immune system.
What Works:
Take away the mould early in a small area. Early elimination avoids medical issues and stops additional infection.
Myth 4: Painting Over Mould Seals It Off
The Reality:
Overmoulding will not kill it in the first place. Rather, it will trap water, so the mould would still be alive underneath the paint and produce bubbling and peeling.
What Works:
Treat mould growth well first before cleaning properly. Paint later if not possible, use a single coat of mould-resistant paint after drying the surface and treating.
Myth 5: Mould Is Only a Problem in Dirty Homes
The Truth:
Mould is not a cleanliness problem. Mould is a dampness problem. The world’s cleanest home can get mould because it has too much moisture, leaks, condensation, or poor ventilation.
What Works:
Be excellent at dampness control. Inspect for leaks regularly, keep your HVAC systems in good condition, and use dehumidifiers where damp spaces are present.
Myth 6: Mould Won’t Grow in Cold Climates
The Truth:
Even though mould prefers heat, it will flourish under perfect conditions to develop when cold is the norm and there is moisture present. Cold, present moisture on windows and plumbing will be a perfect breeding ground.
What Works:
Seal cracks, insulate, and reduce indoor humidity to stop mould from developing in cold locations.
Myth 7: You Can Clean Up All Mould Yourself
The Truth
Where a spot of mold as tiny as a postage stamp may be dealt with gingerly, extensive propagation, particularly larger than 10 square feet, is the province of the professionals. Maintenance at home is only a danger of spore dispersal unless done with an attitude on the edge of being a spore fanatic.
What Works:
Choose how far and where the infestation is. For serious or chronic infestations, let professional mould remediators use good containment and HEPA filtration technology.
Myth 8: Mould Removal Is a One-Time Fix
The Truth
It will not prevent Mould from coming back by cleaning it alone. Until the cause of the problem—too much water or inadequate ventilation—has been fixed, mould will come back.
What Works:
Use cleaning mould with prevention: fix water leaks, caulk cracks, improve air circulation, and offer good ventilation where too wet.
Myth 9: Black Mould Is the Only Hazardous Type
The Truth:
While “black mould” (Stachybotrys chartarum) is its toxic claim to fame, the same allergic reaction, respiratory compromise, and skin irritation will be induced by almost any other mould.
What Works:
Treat all mould alike without discrimination based on color. Fight the temptation to use sight. Laboratory testing, perhaps, might be able to distinguish between them as types, but hand on hand day by day for practical use, scrape first out.
Myth 10: Drying Out the Area Will Automatically Kill Mould
The Truth:
Drying to stop further growth of mold is required, but at the same time, not killing spores that may already be present. Spores are dormant on surfaces for decades before water arrives to disturb them.
What Works:
Use drying and proper cleaning, and disinfection. Use antifungal chemicals to place the mold into a dormant state so it will not grow anymore in the future.
Mould myths spread because they’re a quick fix, or yes, they do work. Bleach is conveniently in your home, paint is easily applied, and out of sight, out of mind. But mould is a biological issue, not an odour or vista issue. Without process and science, it will just come back and can have unhealthy effects on your home and health as well.
Key Takeaways: What You Need to Do
- Determine how the dampness occurred and fix it.
- Check the mould growth and determine if you require a professional.
- Choose the proper product for the surface and extent of infestation.
- Open house windows to lower indoor humidity.
- Don’t read all the home remedies on the internet with a healthy dose of skepticism—treat based on fact, not rumour. Contact us for more information on Mould Removal London.
