Household mold, as well as mildew, are the most common issues that can appear in basements, particularly, when there is water damage, hydraulic rams, or other moist conditions. Even air conditioners, air ducts, and exterior walls are not water-resistant to mold infestations. Totally dependent on the type of mildew, the infestation can result in a musty smell or allergic reactions, and specific types of mold can be very risky for health. It’s extremely important to learn how to get rid of mold from basement walls and other porous surfaces. Vinegar is one of the trustworthy as well as effective cleaners that are widely or generally known for its cleansing and deodorizing properties. Due to the reason that vinegar inhibits mold growth, it is an excellent cleaning solution when it comes to getting rid of mold from basement walls and other large areas. There is no need to clean it off when you are finished.
Using Vinegar To Kill Mold In Basement Walls
Basements have a reputation for being musty, however, make sure not to ignore the smell assuming it is normal for the below-ground space. Musty smells can be a great indication of mold growth in your basement. Cleaning up the mold as well as fixing the situations that support or actively encourage mold growth can help restore your basement to a cleaner, better-smelling area.
- Regular distilled vinegar can help you kill as well as clean up mold in your basement. It works exceptionally well on hard, nonporous surfaces, however, it can be used on almost any surface, which may include wood and drywall. Remember that vinegar might damage some surfaces, including wooden floors with finishes. Never use vinegar as well as bleach on the same area, even if you wipe them betwixt applications. The interaction betwixt the two can create chlorine gas, which is toxic as well as dangerous.
- In order to use vinegar when it comes to killing the mold, spray undiluted vinegar on the surface. Allow it to sit for at least an hour. Use a scrub brush in order to clean the area. Wipe away the remnants before spraying it again using vinegar to kill any lingering mold.
Preventing Future Basement Mold
You will, in all probability, see a return of the mold if you are not able to fix the moisture issues in your basement. The steps you need to take are entirely dependent largely on the moisture source in your basement. Corrections you might need to perform include the following:
- Repairing Leaks: Fix any plumbing leaks in order to prevent moisture buildup.
- Fixing Foundation Issues: Repair cracks or leaks in your foundation in order to keep your basement dry.
- Running A Dehumidifier: If your home has high humidity overall, then using a dehumidifier in the basement will be very helpful.
- Dealing With Clutter: Take the items off the floor before cutting down on clutter. A huge number of items piled on the floor or against the walls can trap moisture as well as increase mold growth.
- Increasing Ventilation: Add exhaust fans or other sources of ventilation in the basement which will help you prevent the possible return of the mold.