Organic Remedies for Killing Mold

Mold growth can lead to stubborn stains on upholstery and hard surfaces in your home. Mold is an especially dangerous household irritant because it can cause allergy symptoms and headaches when people are exposed to it. You can call in a team of professional cleaners to remove the mold or you can troubleshoot the problem on your own. Chlorine bleach is an effective mold killer, but you can start with more gentle mold-killing solutions.

Vinegar

The Martha Stewart website suggests using plain white vinegar to kill mold organically. You can use the vinegar straight or dilute it with water if you prefer to start gently. Vinegar works best to remove mold from non-porous surfaces. If you have clothing that has mold on it, you can add vinegar to the water in your washing machine to remove mold stains from the fabric.

Boric Acid

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Boric acid is a naturally occurring acid that works well to kill mold, according to the Martha Stewart website. You can use boric acid to remove stubborn mold and mildew. Apply boric acid powder along with water to hard surfaces that have mold growth and use a scrub brush to work the boric acid into the mold.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil has natural fungicidal properties, making the essential oil an effective anti-mold treatment. Mix 2 tsp. tea tree oil with 2 cups water in a spray bottle and spray the solution anywhere you want to kill mold.

Sun

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The sun's rays provide a wholly natural way to kill mold spores. The Louisiana State University website recommends setting rugs and upholstery that have mold on them outside in the sun to kill the mold 1. After leaving the fabric in the sun, you can scrub it with warm, soapy water, then leave the material outside to dry completely before brining it back into your home.

Denatured Alcohol

To remove mold from delicate leather garments, Louisiana State University suggests using denatured alcohol, which is a form of ethanol you can purchase at home supply and hardware stores 1. Mix 1 cup denatured alcohol with 1 cup plain water and spray the mixture on leather, then wipe away the dead mold.

Hydrogen Peroxide

If your tile or grout becomes infested with mold, the Martha Stewart website suggests using hydrogen peroxide to kill the mold organically. Combine 1/2 cup hydrogen peroxide with 1 cup water in a spray bottle. Spray the mixture on your grout and tile and let it dry. Wipe the peroxide away with a wet cloth.