Mold is a common problem in homes as it grows in areas with high moisture such as window sills or leaky roofs. Mold can also grow on cardboard, tiles, wooden products, carpets, insulations, wallpapers – basically anywhere – making it a nuisance for homeowners, not to mention a potential health hazard. Fortunately, there are several ways to keep mold at bay, and one of the easiest ways is by using an anti-mold spray.
The best anti-mold sprays remove existing mold, eliminate mold stains, and prevent mold from recurring. Before buying an anti-mold spray, it is important to know your specific needs.
Read on to learn more about anti-mold sprays, the best anti-mold sprays on the market, different types of mold, health issues caused by mold, and how to prevent mold in your home or office.
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Does Anti-Mold Spray Work?
Yes, anti-mold sprays work to eliminate mold, remove stains from surfaces, prevent mold from recurring, and eliminate any odors associated with mold and/or mildew. The best way to ensure that anti-mold spray works is to do some research and choose the product that is best suited for you and your specific needs.
Here are a few things to consider to ensure that anti-mold spray will work best for you:
- Surface. If you have mold in a specific area, let’s say a wooden surface, it is best to choose a spray that not only removes mold but restores the wood. But if you have noticed mold in multiple areas and on different surfaces in your home, a multi-surface spray is best suited to treat each area that requires attention.
- Easy Application. Some anti-mold sprays need to be mixed with water before application, some have an extended hose to spray larger areas, and others come in a classic spray bottle. Consider your specific location and then choose which application is most advantageous for you.
- Scent Remover. No one likes a strong chemical smell, but not all anti-mold sprays leave a citrus scent. Consider the lingering aroma before purchasing an anti-mold spray. These sprays are formulated for indoor use, so they do not pose any danger or health risk, but it is a preference that you should consider before deciding on a product.
- Stains/Stripes. Most products will advertise that their spray does not leave stains or stripes. Although this is most likely true, it is not a bad idea to err on the side of caution when getting rid of mold on a large surface. Test a small area to ensure that the spray does not leave any stains or streaks.
Precautions in Cleaning and Removal
While anti-mold sprays ensure quick and easy removal and prevention of mold, it is important to remember that you are still exposed to mold and there are health risks involved. If you have allergies, asthma, or other similar health issues, you may want to reconsider removing the mold yourself.
If you intend to remove mold from your home, it is important to take some precautions as exposure to mold can cause a number of irritations:
- Wear a respiratory protection – meaning nose and mouth – when handling and/or cleaning moldy areas.
- Wear clothing that protects your skin and can either be washed or discarded when you are finished.
- Use gloves and eye protection.
- Be sure to read and follow all instructions on the bottles before starting the cleaning and mold removal process.
How Does Anti-Mold Spray Work?
Anti-mold spray is a simple and effective method to remove mold and mold stains. These sprays also prevent the recurrence of mold after application and eliminate odors caused by mold and/or mildew.
Most anti-mold sprays are versatile and can be used on a variety of surfaces. That’s great if you have noticed mold in multiple different places in your home. Many of these sprays are designed for indoor use, which means they do not cause any health or allergic problems during use. However, it is important to read and follow the instructions before application.
Many anti-mold sprays are bleach-based formulas that leave surfaces cleaner than ever and act within seconds after application. Simply rinse away mold and stains after spraying. If you have purchased an anti-mold spray specifically for outdoor use, many of these sprays also work in rain and do not require any additional step after application.
The Best Anti-Mold Sprays on the Market
Which anti-mold spray you choose ultimately depends on your specific needs and personal preferences. Whether you need a mold spray for specific areas in the house or for larger outdoor areas, there is definitely an anti-mold spray for you. Here is a list of the best anti-mold sprays on the market:
1. RMR-86 Instant Mold and Mildew Stain Remover
This anti-mold spray is easy to use, simply spray and wipe, no scrubbing required. RMR-86 works on a variety of surfaces including, but not limited to, wood, concrete, drywall, siding, tiles, fiberglass, and vinyl. This formula is bleach-based, can cover 200-400 square feet per gallon, and can be used indoors or outdoors.
It is important to note that this is a heavy-duty cleaner and has a potent smell, so use it as directed and take the necessary precautions.
2. Mold Armor Instant Mold and Mildew Stain Remover
Mold Armor removes mold and mildew, eliminates stains caused by mold and mildew, and removes odors. No scrubbing is required, and this spray can be used on tiles, grout, tubs, toilets, fiberglass, shower doors, vinyl curtains, countertops, and sinks.
Be sure to read and follow the instructions for this product as the chemicals in this product are on the strong side. Also, make sure there is adequate ventilation as the fumes are strong.
3. Clorox Tile Mold and Mildew Remover
Clorox Tile Mold Remover kills mold and mildew and removes stains caused by both. This spray is safe for tiles, vinyl, plastic, and grout, making it ideal for bathrooms. Do not apply to fabric, wood, or paint.
The scent can be a bit strong, so make sure to have sufficient ventilation during use.
4. Concrobium Mold Control Aerosol
Concrobium eliminates mold, cleans the area, and eliminates odors caused by mold. This product does not contain bleach or ammonia. Ideal applications are drywall, concrete, wood, paneling, shingles, stone, grout, plastic, tiles, and more, making this spray ideal for homes, cars, boats, and RVs.
5. Star Brite Mold and Mildew Stain Remover and Cleaner
Star Brite Mold and Mildew Stain Remover is super easy to use, simply spray and rinse, no scrubbing required. This spray is great for awnings, wood, concrete, tiles, upholstery, and more, making it a great option for homes, boats, and RVs.
This product should not be used on wood or painted surfaces, nor is it ideal for prolonged use on metals.
6. BenzaRid
BenzaRid is a hospital grade mold killer as well as a disinfectant and virucide. This spray is odorless and can be used in any room of the house and on a variety of surfaces including countertops, tables, cabinets, furniture, car seats, and headboards, as well as the interior of the car.
7. Wet and Forget Moss, Mold, Mildew, and Algae Stain Remover
This spray is suitable for outdoor use only as it gently cleans with rain and wind over time. Wet and Forget requires no scrubbing and is great for decks, awnings, patios, cement, and other exterior surfaces.
This product requires mixing 5 parts water with 1 part Wet and Forget before use.
8. Moldex Mold Killer
Moldex removes mold from the home and is great for bathrooms, floors, furniture, and kitchen areas. This product kills and protects from mold as well as deodorizes, leaving a clean, fresh scent. With Moldex, no scrubbing is required, simply spray and wipe.
For use on acrylic, concrete, fiberglass, laminate, metal, painted plastic, porcelain, stone, tiles, vinyl, and wood.
9. Endurance BioBarrier
Endurance lives up to its name by not only killing but also preventing mold for an extended period of time. It has a 6-month warranty on frequently used surfaces like bathrooms, kitchens, floors, and more. A 2-year warranty on indoor and outdoor surfaces like wood, plastic, metal, and more. A 25-year warranty on attics, crawl spaces, and more.
Endurance requires no scrubbing, simply spray and let it air dry.
10. MMR Instant Mold Remover
MMR is a two-step solution to remove mold and mildew and disinfect. This spray is great for wood, concrete, drywall, slag blocks, and more. To use this product, spray it, let it dry, and then spray it with disinfectant or simply wipe it, no scrubbing required.
MMR can be used indoors or outdoors and can be used for large jobs or at home or in the office.
Common Types of Household Mold
Mold is a nuisance in many forms, occurring almost everywhere, spreading quickly, and causing a range of health problems. Recognizing mold helps you deal with it quickly and stop its growth before it causes further damage. Here are some common types of mold that can be found in your home. You can have your mold tested at any time to check for this.
- Acremonium. This type of mold typically grows in humidifiers, drip pans, and window seals. This is a toxic mold that can cause serious health problems. Acremonium is a powdery substance that can be pink, orange, gray, or white.
- Aspergillus. Aspergillus is a common household mold that can cause a range of allergic reactions. There are hundreds of species of this mold, and varieties come in a range of colors.
- Stachybotrys. Stachybotrys is most commonly known as “black mold.” This mold has a very slimy texture and typically grows on wood, cardboard, paper, and/or hay. Black mold can cause many health problems, including chest tightness, nosebleeds, fever, and headaches.
- Alternaria. This mold is the most common form of mold and can grow anywhere there is moisture, such as showers, tubs, and sinks. Alternaria has a velvety texture with dark green or brown hairs and spreads very quickly. Alternaria is allergenic, which means it can cause a range of upper respiratory symptoms.
- Cladosporium. Cladosporium is an allergenic mold that typically grows indoors on fabrics and carpets. This form has a suede-like texture and is olive green or brown in color. It should not be touched with bare hands as it can cause skin irritation.
- Mucor. Mucor is an allergenic mold that grows in thick patches and has a white or gray color. This type of mold typically grows near AC and HVAC systems. Mucor can cause severe asthma and flu-like symptoms and can lead to fungal infections.
- Aureobasidium. This type of mold is typically found behind wallpapers or on painted wood surfaces. Aureobasidium can initially be pink, brown, or black and then turns dark brown as it develops. This mold can cause a range of infections, including eye, skin, and nail infections, so avoid touching this mold with bare hands.
Health Issues Related to Mold
There are many health issues associated with prolonged exposure to mold. Health problems can range from flu-like symptoms to heart diseases and can occur in anyone, regardless of whether they are otherwise healthy or have a weakened immune system due to pre-existing conditions.
Symptoms of mold sensitivity include chest and nasal congestion, coughing, sneezing, wheezing, sore throat, watery, dry, or inflamed eyes, skin irritation, and/or headaches.
Some people may suffer from respiratory illnesses when exposed to mold, even those who are otherwise healthy. These symptoms include coughing, wheezing, and/or shortness of breath.
Certain types of mold are considered toxic. Prolonged exposure can lead, among other things, to severe illnesses such as lung scarring, cancer, blood disorders, liver and kidney diseases, as well as digestive and cardiovascular diseases.
People with a weakened immune system or pre-existing conditions are at higher risk of developing severe lung diseases when exposed to mold.
It is important to get rid of mold as soon as possible and prevent future growth. If you or someone near you exposed to mold has started to develop symptoms, it is important to see a doctor. If you are addressing mold at a workplace, you should consider closing during this process to ensure the health and safety of employees.
Ways to Keep Mold at Bay
If you have dealt with mold in your home or office, you want nothing more than to keep it away forever. Here are a few tips to help keep mold at bay:
- Immediately dry any wet areas. Mold cannot grow without moisture, so dry it immediately, regardless of where there is moisture or condensation. Even seemingly minor things like storing wet clothes in the washing machine should be avoided as mold spreads very quickly.
- Identify problem areas in your home. Do a quick check and note any areas where there is condensation, leaks, or even flooding, and then start fixing these issues. It may be an annoying duty and may cost a little upfront, but it’s better than letting mold spread and dealing with larger household or health problems that may arise later.
- Ventilation. Mold can easily be prevented by providing adequate ventilation in rooms with high humidity, such as bathrooms, kitchens, or laundry rooms. You can do this by using dehumidifiers, opening a window, or running a fan.
- Keep water away. If the ground around your house does not have a slope, it can be an invitation for water to seep into a crawl space or basement.
- Improve air circulation in your home. By keeping furniture away from walls and opening doors, you allow for air circulation and limit mold growth. It is especially important to ventilate dark areas.
Final Thoughts
Anti-mold spray is a simple and effective way to get rid of mold, prevent future growth, and eliminate mold-related odors.
Before purchasing, it is important to consider for which surface you need the spray and which application works best for you, depending on the scent of the spray and whether it leaves any stains or streaks on the area. Also, be sure to take the necessary precautions before starting to spray and clean the area.
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