If you don’t have a spray bottle, mix up the water and dish soap in a clean bucket. [2] X Research source If you prefer, you can use a commercial cleanser designed to kill mold instead. These cleansers, which are typically made with ammonia, are available at most home improvement stores. [3] X Expert Source Mike KapurCertified Mold Assessor & Home Inspector, Sonic Home Inspections Expert Interview. 19 August 2020. However, be careful and test the cleanser in an inconspicuous spot first to make sure it doesn’t damage the painted or stained surface.

As you work, sop up excess moisture with a sponge or cloth. Try not to saturate the area with water, as excess moisture can enable new mold growth. Only spray on enough to lightly dampen the surface so you can scrub the mold away.

Any lingering moisture could cause the mold to come back, so dry the area as thoroughly as you can. If possible, turn on a dehumidifier or aim a fan at the cleaned surface to help speed up the drying process. [6] X Trustworthy Source United States Environmental Protection Agency Independent U. S. government agency responsible for promoting safe environmental practices Go to source

Don’t worry about the smell of the vinegar. This will disappear as it dries.

If you still see dark staining on the surface, it’s probably dirt. Try going over it again with soapy water and a scrub brush. Fortunately, bleach won’t damage most painted or stained surfaces, although it will damage wallpaper. If you’re worried, test the diluted bleach mixture in an inconspicuous spot before spraying it on the mold.

Always use bleach in a well-ventilated area. If you’re indoors, open the doors and windows to let in fresh air. Never mix bleach with other detergents or cleaning solutions, especially cleansers that contain ammonia! When bleach mixes with ammonia, it creates extremely toxic fumes.

To speed up the drying process, aim a fan at the surface. [12] X Trustworthy Source United States Environmental Protection Agency Independent U. S. government agency responsible for promoting safe environmental practices Go to source Don’t wipe or rinse away the bleach so that it has a chance to soak in and kill mold beneath the surface of the wood.

Mix 1 teaspoon (8 g) of borax powder with 1 cup (240 mL) of water. Scrub the area with this mixture, then let it air dry without rinsing or wiping away the borax. Use a fan to speed the drying process. Use an ammonia-based commercial mold and mildew cleaner, which may do a better job killing mold below the surface of the wood. [14] X Expert Source Mike KapurCertified Mold Assessor & Home Inspector, Sonic Home Inspections Expert Interview. 19 August 2020. Or, make a solution of 1 part ammonia to 4 parts water. [15] X Research source Thoroughly rinse and dry the surface when you’re done, or follow the instructions on the cleanser packaging.

Wear a respirator mask and safety goggles to protect your lungs and eyes from spores that come loose during the sanding process. When you’re done, vacuum the area to pick up the mold-contaminated sawdust. Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter, and dispose of the vacuumed material outdoors in a sealed plastic bag. [18] X Research source

If you are unsure about whether you can clean the mold yourself, contact a professional to be on the safe side. To find a mold remediation pro, do a search using terms like “mold removal near me” or “mold remediation services in my area. ”[20] X Expert Source Mike KapurCertified Mold Assessor & Home Inspector, Sonic Home Inspections Expert Interview. 19 August 2020.

If you are going to be using bleach, wear gloves made of a bleach-resistant material, like natural rubber, neoprene, or polyurethane. Put on old clothes that you don’t mind getting damaged, or cover up with a protective layer, like an apron or an old button-up shirt. [22] X Research source Exposure to mold can cause health problems such as coughing and skin, eye, or throat irritation. [23] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source Wearing proper protective gear will help keep you safe.

Make note of any strong musty or earthy smells. It’s often possible to smell black mold before you see it. Check for mold that is black, dark green, grey, or brown. While wearing gloves and a respirator mask, rub the mold with a paper towel to get a sense of its texture. While other molds are often powdery or fuzzy, mature black mold is usually slimy and wet.

Vacuuming will minimize the quantity of spores you stir up during the cleaning process. Use the soft brush attachment on the vacuum cleaner when cleaning surfaces such as furniture, cabinets, or wood paneling. Ensure that you vacuum all drawers, panels, and crevices. [27] X Research source Make sure that you are outside when you empty the vacuum cleaner canister or bag. Tip the contents into a plastic bag and tie it up tightly. Dispose of the bag right away in an outdoor trash container.

Check the wood in the area for mold again after 3 days. If you notice it returning, either clean the area again or contact a professional.

Vacuuming the area afterward again is necessary because it is likely that mold spores have been stirred up during the cleaning process. Always wear a respirator mask and goggles when you’re disposing of the vacuumed-up mold. When you’re done, throw away the HEPA filter and replace it with a new one. Put the filter in a sealed plastic bag and throw it away outside.

A fungicidal paint or sealant will stop any hidden, existing mold from growing through and it will also prevent future mold growth on top of the seal.

This is especially important for wood in areas that have a lot of moisture, such as kitchens and bathrooms.