Some of the best tips for getting rid of mold include using a vinegar solution, reducing moisture in the air, and decorating with a mildew resistant paint. Damp clothes, which can release a lot of moisture, should be allowed to dry completely before being stored. Other tips include increasing air circulation and using dehumidifiers.
The first step in getting rid of mold is to clean any existing patches on the walls, ceiling, window frames, or shower curtain. A mixture of vinegar and water is effective for this because it contains a type of acid that chemically reacts with mold and kills it. Along with professional cleaning products, baking soda is also sometimes useful for this purpose. Some types of mold can be dangerous to inhale, so the sooner the walls are cleaned the better.
Mold needs both moisture and a source of food in order to flourish. Condensation in the air is common in many homes and can often be seen as moisture on window frames. Ventilating the windows, either by installing a permanent vent or leaving the windows open a small amount, is important when getting rid of mold. This is sometimes difficult during the cold winter months, however.
If possible, a home that has a problem getting rid of mold should be painted with a mildew-resistant paint. This product is specifically designed to stop mold from settling and growing and can be a good choice for walls and ceilings. Paint made for this purpose can be bought at most home retailers. It is also possible to create mold-resistant paint by adding substances such as aspirin and copper.
Damp clothes are a major source of moisture in the air. Instead of putting wet or damp cloths into a laundry basket, they should be left to dry in a well-ventilated room. The clothes should ideally dry outside, although this may not always be practical in apartments or a house without a garden.
Some other tips for getting rid of mold include using fans to circulate air within the home and placing dehumidifiers in damp rooms to reduce condensation. Keeping areas that are prone to mold as clean as possible is also important. Prevention is generally the best way to get rid of the problem because mold can reproduce and spread quickly. Left alone, mold is at best unsightly and at worst a health hazard, so it needs to be dealt with as soon as possible.
