So You Have Black Mold: Utilize White Vinegar

Toronto property owners are finding those nasty black or green mold stains now the air moisture is higher due to Autumn weather. This doesn’t usually mean a suggestion of a lazy housekeeping. In every property, miscellaneous parts break over time and sometimes it takes a while to see it. These cracks are a home for those molds and until they happen to smell or the stain becomes evident then the mold continues its relentless breeding. For some house, mold is an ongoing issue in areas like kitchens or bathrooms due to the increased dampness and humidity in these areas. Whether the mold is seasonal or year round the answer to the issue is definitely the same.

Do you use professionals or try the DIY method?

Of course it is your choice to use a professional company to deal with the issue for you, but before you dole out for them have a go out some of our eco-friendly solutions. Having said that, should you determine that the area affected by mold is rather big (ie over 10 sq ft or so), calling a expert would be a good idea.

Protection comes first

A few molds can be harmful to people such as black mold. A mask to take care of your breathing and hefty, thick rubber gloves are the basic items you need before starting any cleaning. Most hardware stores stock tests kits, whereby you can send off a sample for analysis, which should put your mind at rest about which breed of mold you are dealing with. Allergies and respiratory issues can be aggravated by mold treatments, so buying and using this kit would be a good idea.

Eco-Friendly Cleaners

The one detergent that stands number one in both affordability and eco-friendliness, and one you most likely have at hand already—white vinegar. Flexibility is another reason why vinegar is number one, it removes lime scale, drives away ants (as mentioned in our first instalment of Toronto homeowner's guide), but it also kills the fungi and bacteria that causes this unsightly mold. Distilled white vinegar is a 100% degradable detergent that can compete with all those expensive anti-fungal sprays on the market, without emptying your purse.

Extermination and Thwarting

Getting rid of mold for a long time is hardly a one-time venture. The expanse the mold has developed must be thoroughly cleaned. Then it is necessary to make the environment in your property less mold-friendly. To avoid mold spores becoming airborne, where possible wet the area before you attempt to clean it. Dry the space thoroughly.

If the surface is porous such as paper or fabric then these goods are extremely tough if not impossible to rid of mold. You are better off changing such items. To prevent mold reappearing is a fairly easy thing to do. Mold loves hot and humid environments, so it is necessary to repair any possible water leaks and to control the relative humidity in your home (a hygrometer will help you with that). Airing rooms regularly is a very easy step and one that doesn't cost you any effort. If the humidity goes above 60% then mold will come back and continue to breed. In summery weather humidity rises, so invest in a decent air conditioner, if it has filters, as these are a breeding ground for mold, make sure they are regularly cleaned. When it is chilly and damp you need an item to take the moisture out of the air, such as a dehumidifier. Best of luck, and here's to a mold free property.