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Mold Cleaning Tips

• Mold spores remain allergenic and toxic even when dead.
• Porous materials (e.g., carpet, sheetrock) from which microbial growth cannot be adequately cleaned must be removed from the building.
• Boric acid (borax) or hydrogen peroxide is very effective at killing molds. They do not have an odor and are recommended for people with chemical sensitivities. However, small minorities of people have reported sensitivities to boric acid.
• Vacuuming may temporarily increase exposure to mold spores. The spores can pass through ordinary vacuum bags and remain suspended in the air for hours or days. Central vacuums that vent outside are recommended, or vacuums fitted with HEPA filters and micro-filtration vacuum bags to help minimize this exposure.
• Carpet cleaning should be performed by trained professionals that utilize hot water extraction. Ensure that the cleaned carpets dry out in less than 24 hours. Chemical cleaning methods can leave a residue that attracts soil and other contaminants.
• A HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) air cleaner, with or without a charcoal filter, can be utilized in addition to source removal and ventilation to remove unwanted airborne contaminants. Relying on an air cleaner alone to solve a significant mold problem is insufficient.