How to Clean Mould Off Walls Safely and Effectively

Nobody wants to see black or green spots spreading across their walls. Mould is not just ugly to look at. It can make you sick and damage your home. But don't worry. Getting rid of it is possible when you know the right steps.

What Causes Mould to Grow?

Mould loves moisture. It grows in damp places where air doesn't move much. Your bathroom, kitchen, and basement are common spots. Leaky pipes make things worse. So does poor ventilation.

When water stays on surfaces too long, mould spores find a home. These tiny spores float in the air everywhere. They only need water and something to feed on. Your walls give them both.

Safe Steps to Clean Mould Off Walls

Let us go through the process of removing it properly. Follow these simple steps to make your home fresh and safe again.

Step 1: Prepare Your Cleaning Area

Safety is the first step in any mould cleaning process. Mould spores can spread through the air while cleaning, so wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and a mask. Open windows and doors to improve ventilation and prevent breathing in any particles.

Move furniture away from the wall and cover nearby items to protect them from cleaning solutions. It is also a good idea to keep children and pets away during the cleaning process.

Step 2: Choose the Right Cleaning Solution

There are several safe and effective ways to clean mould off walls. Here are a few options:

• White Vinegar: Mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Vinegar kills mould and helps prevent it from coming back.

• Baking Soda: Mix one teaspoon of baking soda with two cups of water. Spray it on the wall, scrub gently, and wipe clean.

• Hydrogen Peroxide: Use a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution. Spray it on the affected area, wait ten minutes, then scrub and rinse.

• Commercial Cleaners: If the mould problem is large, use special mould cleaning products available in stores. Make sure to read the label before using them.

Avoid using bleach unless necessary. While bleach can remove mould stains, it may not kill mould spores on porous surfaces and can produce harmful fumes.

Step 3: Scrub the Affected Area

Spray your chosen cleaning solution directly onto the mouldy area. Allow it to sit for about 10 to 15 minutes so it can break down the mould. Then, use a soft brush or cloth to scrub gently. Avoid using a hard brush as it might damage your paint or wall surface.

Once the mould is removed, wipe the area with a clean, damp cloth. Rinse and repeat if any mould remains.

Step 4: Dry the Area Thoroughly

Moisture is mould’s best friend. After cleaning, dry the wall completely using a clean towel, cloth, or fan. If moisture remains, mould can start to grow again.

You can also use a dehumidifier to reduce humidity levels and prevent mould from reappearing.

Step 5: Clean Mould Off Walls Before Painting

If you plan to paint over a wall that has mould, make sure the wall is completely clean and dry first. Cleaning mould off walls before painting ensures that the new paint will stick properly and prevents mould from growing underneath it.

Apply a mould-resistant primer before painting for extra protection. This helps keep your walls fresh and clean for longer.

Additional Tips for Preventing Mould Growth

Once you have cleaned the mould, it is important to take preventive steps to stop it from coming back. Here are some simple yet effective tips:

1. Keep rooms ventilated – Open windows often and use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens.

2. Control humidity – Use dehumidifiers or air conditioners to keep humidity levels below 60%.

3. Fix leaks quickly – Repair dripping taps, leaky roofs, or damaged pipes immediately.

4. Clean regularly – Regular cleaning can help reduce overall moisture and dust buildup.

5. Use anti-mould paint – In high-humidity areas like bathrooms, use special paints that prevent mould growth.

By following these tips, you can maintain a mould-free home and keep your indoor air fresh and healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Mould

Many people make small mistakes that can lead to mould coming back again. Here are a few to avoid:

• Using the wrong cleaner: Not all cleaners kill mould spores. Always use effective solutions like vinegar or hydrogen peroxide.

• Skipping the drying step: Moisture left behind after cleaning can make mould return quickly.

• Painting over mould: Never paint over mould without cleaning it first. It will keep growing underneath the paint.

• Ignoring the source: Cleaning helps temporarily, but fixing leaks and improving ventilation prevents future problems.

Avoiding these mistakes can save you time and ensure that your cleaning lasts longer.

When to Call a Professional

Sometimes mould growth covers a large area or keeps returning even after cleaning. In such cases, it may be best to contact professional cleaners. Experts have advanced tools and safe methods to remove mould completely and prevent it from spreading.

If you notice black mould, which is toxic, or if you have health issues due to mould exposure, professional help is strongly recommended.

Conclusion

Mould can make your home look untidy and unhealthy, but it is possible to remove it safely with the right steps. Identify the cause, use safe cleaning solutions, and always keep the area dry to prevent it from coming back.

If you need help or prefer a professional touch, contact Femme Propre, your trusted cleaning company, for reliable mould cleaning and home care services.