3 All-Natural Mold Control Methods All Homeowners Should Know
Many homeowners seem to think they have a solid grasp of their home’s potential causes of mold. However, mold grows more easily than most people think, and being proactive is the best way to keep your home dry and mold free. Furthermore, homeowners shouldn’t feel as though they need to use harsh chemicals to alleviate any potential mold issues. There are plenty of all-natural remedies that are typically better for the health of humans and the Earth itself. Here are just a few all-natural mold control techniques all homeowners should be familiar with.
Essential Oils
Essential oils have been growing in popularity due to their variety of widespread uses. In fact, Environmental Protection says that there are at least two essential oils that can assist with removing mold: Grapefruit seed extract and tea tree oil. Grapefruit seed extract can be used by adding 20 drops to two cups of water, applying the solution thoroughly to the affected area with a spray bottle, and letting the area air dry. Similarly, tea tree oil naturally has anti-microbial properties and can be used by adding one teaspoon to two cups of water and applying the same way.
Both of these oils can help to remove any area of mold in a quick, affordable, and nontoxic way. However, they do have a minor disadvantage in their strong odors, which can linger for a few days. Keep this in mind when using any essential oil solution.
Commercial and All-Natural Mold Cleaning Solvents
If you’d rather leave the mold-cleaning solvents to the professionals, you’ll be happy to know that there are numerous products on the market designed to kill mold without harmful chemicals.
“These products are typically biodegradable, pH neutral, contain no harsh chemicals, and no toxic pesticides that can be harmful to humans and animals,” writes Carl Bennett. “Examples include: Naturally Clean Mold and Mildew Remover by ChemFree Solution, and MoldOff.”
Aside from convenience, another benefit of these all-natural commercial solutions are their ease of use. Unlike other DIY solutions, most commercial agents require no scrubbing at all and are therefore less labor intensive. They could, however, be a bit costly for areas that are more widespread.
Water Damage Prevention
Finally, it’s important to keep in mind that the best way to prevent mold is to prevent water damage altogether. Over 98% of homes with basements will experience some type of water damage. Preventing water damage should start with outdoor maintenance, such as cleaning your home’s gutters. Most homeowners don’t realize it, but each gallon of rain water weighs eight pounds, which means a home with clogged and overflowing gutters will likely be holding weight in the thousands of pounds. On top of keeping your home’s gutters clean, make sure downspout extensions are directed at least 1.8 meters away from your home’s foundation walls and that the water doesn’t flow towards your neighbor’s home. Downspout extensions should also be directed away from your house towards the road, back yard or back lane.
Ultimately, about 20% of all insurance claims related to water damage of some kind, including those related to mold. Avoiding water damage in the first place is a foolproof method for maintaining a mold-free home, but if you do have a mold problem, it’s important to remember that there are plenty of viable all-natural solutions that don’t involve toxins.