Can I Use Bleach for Mold Removal?

Is the old advice about using bleach for mold removal a myth or helpful homeowner advice? Unfortunately, the old wives tale has persisted for so long because bleach will appear to remove some surface mold, however, it only masks the mold you can see and does not treat an underlying mold problem. And because bleach contains water, it actually can feed the mold and most certainly come back soon.  SMART Environmental provides professional mold removal in both residential and commercial environments in the Kansas City area. 

Healthline.com explains that, “Bleach is commonly marketed as a solution for eliminating mold, but it only works against mold on nonporous surfaces, like tiles and sinks. It doesn’t work on porous surfaces, such as wood or drywall.”

If you are using bleach on nonporous surfaces like glass, tiles, sinks or bathtubs, you will have relative success with a 1:1 solution of bleach and water. However, trying to tackle a mold problem on wood or drywall, which is where many homeowners encounter mold, will need a professional application or removal plan. 

The EPA also warns, “Dead mold may still cause allergic reactions in some people, so it is not enough to simply kill the mold, it must also be removed.” 

In order to properly address a mold problem, we need to remove all of the mold spores and their source of moisture. A professional mold removal plan will include sterilizing the area, removing any existing mold and adding a prevention agent, such as an antimicrobial or sealant to make the treated areas more resistant to water damage, condensation or future mold build-up. 

If you need residential or commercial mold remediation or mold removal in Kansas City for your home or business, SMART Environmental Services can help. Call (913) 355-5303 today to schedule a consultation with our team of experts or contact us online. SMART Environmental is A+ rated by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and is here to serve Kansas City for asbestos, lead, meth/fentanyl and environmental clean-up services. 

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