Does Vinegar Kill Mold?

Vinegar is known to kill more than 80% of mold species. However, this cleaning process can be quite slow, resulting in some discoloration left behind. Cleaning vinegar or distilled white vinegar work best for mold removal. Let’s take a look at a step-by-step breakdown of this cleaning process.

Can Vinegar Kill Mold?

Vinegar ultimately penetrates deeper into mold than bleach does. Bleach can undoubtedly eliminate some mold that it can reach. It may also only work on non-porous surfaces like glass and tile, though.

Bleach is ineffective when applied to porous surfaces, such as wood, fabrics, and drywall. Vinegar is better overall than bleach when it comes to mold, mildew, and fungus removal.

How To Use Vinegar To Kill Mold

It’s best to use either cleaning vinegar or distilled white for this cleaning process. Apply the vinegar to remove mold from your bathroom, refrigerator interior, gaskets, kitchen appliances, and more.

Have the following equipment/materials on hand for this task:

• Cleaning vinegar or distilled white vinegar.
• Powdered oxygen bleach.
• N-95 mask.
• Rubber gloves.
• Spray bottle.
• Sponge.
• Bucket.
• Protection for your eyes.
• Nylon-bristled scrub brush.

Step 1. Protect Yourself

• Rubber gloves, N-95 mask, and eye protection should be worn at all times.
• It’s best to wear old clothes that can be thrown into the washer right after the task.

Step 2. Ventilate The Area

• Open any nearby doors and windows.
• Turn on bathroom or kitchen exhaust fans.
• This will help you ventilate the area before cleaning.

Step 3. Apply The Vinegar

• Pour the undiluted vinegar into your spray bottle.
• Make sure to label it immediately.
• Let the vinegar sit on the surface for at least one hour before moving on.

Step 4. Rinse Surface

• Dip your sponge in clean water now.
• Wipe down the surface.
• Frequently rinse the sponge during this step.
• Start at the top, working downwards as you scrub.
• Wring the sponge for porous surfaces.

Step 5. Start Scrubbing

• If anything is left discolored, use oxygen-based bleach in order to remove stains.
• This does not kill mold spores, but it will remove stains.
• Mix 1/2 cup of powdered bleach into a bucket containing 2 quarts of warm water.
• Dissolve the powder by stirring the solution well.
• Apply this solution to any discolored areas with the help of a nylon-bristled scrub brush or sponge.
• Allow the solution to work for at least 30 minutes before rinsing it with clean water.

Step 6. Final Spray

• Spray the vinegar one last time on the area that featured mold.
• Let the freshly cleaned surfaces air-dry.

Native Environmental LLC Provides Industrial Cleaning In Phoenix, Arizona