The topics of how to get rid of mold, how to kill mold, how to clean mold, and how to remediate mold are controversial and loaded. There is SO MUCH INFORMATION on the internet about the methods you can use to get rid of mold. Sadly, a lot of it is flat out wrong. Some of it is even dangerous.
Its hard to know who and what information to trust which is why over time, this site will be fully loaded with information about how to properly, effectively, and safely remove mold as well as when you should just walk away. We will even discuss that pesky “how to kill black mold” myth.
Although all of my posts about removing mold are at the bottom of this page, one of the most important pieces of advice I can give you right now has to do with using bleach on mold. NEVER use bleach on mold. If a professional tells you to use bleach or wants to use bleach, run. If you are reading information on a website and they mention cleaning mold with bleach… run.
You see, bleach does two things when it comes mold. It bleaches it so you can’t see it. However, the mold is still there. Beyond that, and even scarier, mycotoxins (the evil spawn of mold) go into fight or flight mode when they come in contact with bleach. This means they begin reproducing like wildfire. You DO NOT want mycotoxins reproducing.
Also keep in mind that there are a lot of terms used related to mold removal. Mold abatement, mold mitigation, mold removal, and mold remediation, are interchangeable terms that essentially mean fixing a mold problem in a structure.
Read on for more information about mold removal or click a heading below to jump straight to that section.
- Is DIY Mold Removal A Good Idea?
- When Should You Hire A Professional Remediation Company To Remove Mold?
- Types Of Mold Cleaning Products
- What Household Items and Furniture Can Be Cleaned and What Should You Throw Away?
- Ready to learn more about how to clean surface mold, general mold removal tips, and even some mold remediation advice? Check out all of the posts about how to get rid of mold here.
Is DIY Mold Removal A Good Idea?
Do you have any health issues? Don’t do it.
Is the mold contaminated area small? If so, then maybe DIY mold removal is a good idea.
Is the mold contaminated area over 100 square feet? Don’t do it.
Do you fully understand HOW to properly contain the moldy area and seal off the rest of your house? No? Don’t do it. Yes? Maybe do it.
In my humble, experienced opinion, DIY mold removal is very rarely a good idea. Unless you really, really know what you are doing and are potentially up against, mold remediation should typically be left to the experts. There are just too many things that can go wrong. The last thing you want to do is unintentionally cause a bigger issue or send mold spores flying into other parts of your home.
I remediated a small area of my home once and what should have been a very cut and dry process turned into quite the mess. While I definitely knew what I was doing, I won’t do it again. There is a reason that there are mold remediation professionals out there.

When Should You Hire A Professional Remediation Company To Remove Mold?
If you read the section above, you know that I am a proponent of leaving mold remediation to the professionals. At the very least, get a consultation and see what they have to say. There are a LOT of companies out there so make sure you read reviews and ask them a lot of questions. If you aren’t comfortable with their responses, remediation plan, or pricing, then keep interviewing companies until you find one that is a good fit for your situation and budget. You don’t want to take too long to hire a company however. Time if of the essence with mold.
Every mold damage scenario is different, and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate a “typical” remediation process:
- Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
- Mold Containment
- Air Filtration
- Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
- Cleaning Contents and Belongings
- Restoration
If a professional mold remediation company does not include any one of these steps, DO NOT HIRE THEM.
You can read my post on what Every Homeowner Needs To Know Before They Hire A Remediation Company here.

Types Of Mold Cleaning Products
Do an internet search for products that remove mold, mold cleaning products, or any variation of those two and you will get an endless list of products guaranteed to kill mold.
Here’s the deal. You don’t want to clean mold. You don’t want to just kill mold. You want to remove mold and remediate the entire home and everything in it. Typically that means you need to remove whatever the mold is growing on be that a wall, flooring, window frame, etc… There are some instances where there is a little surface mold that can be “cleaned” but most mold events require some sort of removal process followed by remediation.
When you look for a reputable product to kill mold or remove mold, you also want something that deactivates or neutralizes mycotoxins. This is VERY important seeing that mycotoxins are more dangerous than the mold itself.
You don’t need harsh chemicals to remove mold. There are a handful of non-toxic, environmentally safe, kid safe, pet safe products out there. A couple of these also tackle mycotoxins. There are sprays, concentrated solutions for a fogger, candles, foams, and mists. Each one works slightly differently. You can find some of my product recommendations here. You can also check out my comprehensive mold remover product guide.

What about things like vinegar, essential oils, ammonia, and good old fashioned sunshine?
Don’t get me started. These all have their place but in my personal experience and rigorous testing, they are NOT capable of performing miracles on mold and they certainly do not touch mycotoxins.
Don’t worry – this is just the tip of the iceberg. Remember, at the end of this page are all my posts related to removing mold including various cleaning product reviews and recommendations.
What Household Items and Furniture Can Be Cleaned and What Should You Throw Away?
Cleaning and saving items exposed to mold is a very touchy subject. The memories associated with various possessions are often more difficult to throw out than the item itself. In addition, financial limitation may make it seem impossible to get rid of many household items.
When you bring any item that has been exposed to mold into a new environment (or a remediated one) there is always the chance of cross contamination no matter how well you cleaned it or what you cleaned it with. It is virtually impossible to get rid of every mold spore and mycotoxin. Having said there, there are a few general rules about what is safer to clean and keep, what should be thrown out, and what items are not advisable to clean and keep but can possibly be saved.

Non-Porous Items
These items are generally safe to properly clean and keep. Non-Porous means that the material does not have the ability to absorb a contaminate such as mold. It doesn’t mean that mold spores can’t get trapped in nooks and crannies though. You have to be very thorough cleaning these items.
What non-porous items can you clean and keep?
- Metal furniture
- Glass Furniture
- Dishes, Serving Bowls/Platter, Decorative Plates that are made of coated ceramic, glass, metal, china, porcelain, or glazed clay
- Glassware
- Silverware
- Metal cooking utensils
- Pots and Pans with the exception of cast iron
- Baking sheets and bakeware
- Silicone cooking utensils and bakeware
- Non-wood cutting boards
- Anything made of glass
- Metal framed glass mirrors
- Any brass or metal instruments
- Eye glasses
- Metal jewelry
- DVDs and CDs without covers or cases
- Essential oil bottles
- Legos
- Scissors
- Bicycles (best kept outdoors though)
Porous Items That *Might” Be Safe
Porous items in general are able to absorb contaminates around them. Mold spores and mycotoxins can either take up permanent residence in these items OR use them as food. While this list of porous items has the potential to be properly cleaned and kept, there is a risk involved especially if anyone is experiencing health issues.
What porous items can you clean and maybe keep?
- Oven/Stove
- Cell Phones
- Landline Phones
- Clothing
- Towels
- Bed linens
- Kitchen appliances without a motor
- Irons
- Weights and barbells
- Exercise equipment without a motor
- Curling irons / flat irons
- Leather furniture
- Leather clothing
- Leather purses, briefcases, and belts
- Office chairs
- Hard suitcases
Hazardous Porous Items
Unfortunately, there are a lot of items that are too hazardous and cannot be cleaned under any circumstance. They should not be given away or sold either. These items must be disposed of safely.
What porous items are too risky to attempt to clean and keep and should be thrown away?
- Anything made of wood or particle board
- Anything made of rubber
- Anything made of cork
- Anything made of foam
- Anything made of cork
- Anything made of hemp
- Anything made of wool
- Anything made of fur
- Anything made of cardboard or paper
- Anything made of cloth that cannot be put in a washing machine on high heat
- Lamps
- Washers and dryers
- Televisions
- Video Game Consoles
- DVD Players
- Radios
- Other electronics
- Kitchen appliances with a motor
- Wooden cutting boards
- Ironing boards
- Books and magazines
- Hair Dryers
- Electric shavers or hair clippers
- Pens, pencils, and other small office supplies
- Cloth suitcases
- Pianos
- Wooden instruments
- Stringed instruments
- Area rugs
- Mattresses
- Couches (non-leather)
- Pillows
- Pet beds
- Antiques
- Stuffed animals
- Baskets
- Wall art / paintings
- Candles
- Silk plants
- Pictures (photos)
- Sewing and craft supplies including yarn
- Sewing machine
- Vacuums
- Dehumidifiers
- Space Heaters
- Window AC units
Ready to learn more about how to clean surface mold, general mold removal tips, and even some mold remediation advice? Check out all of the posts about how to get rid of mold here.
Let's Remove Some Mold!
Does Bleach Kill Mold?
Does bleach kill mold? Everything you need to know about killing black mold with bleach, spraying bleach on mold, & if cleaning mold with bleach makes mold worse.
Essential Oils For Mold
What is the best essential oil to kill mold? Learn more about essential oils for mold including which ones work, how to use them, & diffusing essential oils for mold.
Does Vinegar Kill Mold?
How does vinegar get rid of black mold? Glad you asked. If you've been asking yourself "does vinegar kill mold" then this guide is for you!
Does Ammonia Kill Mold?
Does ammonia kill mold? Removing mold with ammonia is potentially dangerous. The guide to ammonia and toxic mold will walk you through everything you must know.
Does Borax Kill Mold?
Does borax kill mold and is it safe? Find out how to remove mold with borax as well as whether you can mix it with vinegar.
Does Hydrogen Peroxide Kill Mold?
Does hydrogen peroxide kill mold? Do you use 35 hydrogen peroxide for mold removal? What to know about how to get rid of black mold with hydrogen peroxide.
Does Alcohol Kill Mold?
Alcohol as a mold killer? Wait what? Does alcohol kill mold? Come find out in this post about mold removal with rubbing alcohol.
The Best Mold Removal Spray + DIY Mold Spray
Mold removal spray, mold killer spray, mold prevention spray...what’s the best mold spray these days? Is DIY mold spray effective? Let’s learn more now!
Does Ozone Kill Mold and Is It Safe?
Does ozone kill mold? Does ozone kill mycotoxins? How does an ozone generator work and are ozone machines safe? Check out this guide to ozone and mold.
How To Properly Set Up Mold Containment Before DIY Mold Remediation
Mold containment is one of the most important steps in the mold remediation process. Learn how to properly set up mold containment before DIY mold remediation.
How To Prevent Attic Mold + Attic Mold Tips
What causes attic mold and does attic mold spread into the house? Learn how
to prevent attic mold and remove attic mold in this comprehensive guide. Mold in the attic can cause a huge amount of damage so don’t wait!
10 Ways To Prevent Crawl Space Mold + Crawlspace Mold Removal
Do you have mold in your crawl space? Crawl space mold is a huge issue and my tips and tricks to prevent it are a must read! Also learn how to get rid of mold in crawl spaces like a pro.
Your Guide To HVAC Mold & Mold In Air Ducts
Do you have mold in your HVAC or air ducts? Mold in window AC? Learn what to do about AC mold including how to prevent it, what causes it, & how to remove it.
What Kills Mold On Wood?
What kills mold on wood? Whether it is wood furniture, wooden decor, wood stubs, or wood flooring, this guide to mold on wood and how to remove it leaves no stone unturned.
How To Remove Mold From Leather The Easy Way
Can you remove mold from leather? Why does mold grow on leather? Learn everything you need to know about mold on leather + how to prevent mold on leather jackets, purses, boots, & shoes.
The 7 Best HEPA Vacuums For Mold
Does a HEPA filter remove mold spores? Can you vacuum mold spores? Learn more about the 6 best HEPA vacuums for mold for every budget.
The Best Mold Control Fogger + Mold Fogging Tips
Can you fumigate for mold? Is there a fogger for mold? Learn about the 4 best mold control foggers + mold fogging tips like how to use a mold control fogger.
Black Mold In The Shower? Here’s How To Remove It!
This guide has everything you need to know about black mold in the shower including how to clean shower mold and how to prevent shower mold.
The Best Way To Clean Mold In A Washing Machine
Why does my washing machine have mold & is it dangerous? Learn the best way to clean mold in a washing machine & how to prevent mold in front load washing machines.
Toilet Mold – What It Is, How To Remove It, and How To Prevent It
Why is mold growing in my toilet, is toilet mold dangerous, & how do I get rid of black mold in my toilet? Grab this complete guide to toilet mold.
How To Get Mold Out Of Carpet
Carpet mold? If you need to know how to get mold out of carpet then read this. I look at how to clean mold from carpet and what kills mold and mildew in carpet.
How To Remove Mold From Books
Can you save that beloved book collection after mold invades your home? What about "old musty books?" Can they be salvaged? All this and more in this guide on how to remove mold from books.
Your Guide To The Best Laundry Detergent To Remove Mold
Not all laundry detergent can remove mold. There are a few important ingredients that a good mold removing detergent must have. Check out my top picks for the best laundry detergent to remove mold.
How To Get Mold Out Of Clothes and Fabrics
Wondering how to get the mildew smell out of clothes or how to remove mold from fabric? Come learn how to get mold out of clothes and fabric plus tons more!
The 7 Best Mold and Mildew Resistant Towels + How To Remove The Mildew Smell
Looking for mold and mildew resistant bath towels? Need to remove the mildew smell from towels and other linens? Check my method out here!
How Do You Get Rid Of Mold In A Car?
Do you have mold in your car? You want to remove it ASAP. If you have been wondering how do you get rid of mold in a car you have come to the right place!
How To Clean Mold On Dishes
Can you wash mold off dishes? How do you clean moldy dishes without bleach? Can you clean moldy dishes at all? This and more in my guide to moldy dishes.
Pets and Mold – How To Test For and Treat Mold On Animal Fur
Pet hair is a huge source of mold cross contamination and one people don't think much about. Learn how to test for a treat mold on animal fur.
EC3 Mold Solution & Other EC3 Products - Do They Really Work and How?
Micro Balance EC3 products kill mold and mycotoxins without harmful chemicals. Learn about EC3 mold solution concentrate, EC3 Laundry Additive, and EC3 candles.
Endurance BioBarrier Cleaner Prep and Endurance BioBarrier Review
Endurance BioBarrier - does it really kill mold? Does it prevent mold? This Endurance BioBarrier review gives you the information you need to know about this mold remover.
7 Best Air Purifiers For Mold
A guide to the 7 best air purifiers for mold. Learn if air purifiers really remove mold, which air purifier is best for mold, & how to clean an air purifier.
Top 7 Car Air Purifiers And Why You Want To Use One
Your house isn't the only place you should use an air purifier! Check out the top 7 car air purifiers and why you want to use one.
Mold Remediation - What Every Homeowner Needs To Know Before Hiring A Remediation Company
Mold remediation is a complex subject. This guide will help you know what to look for in a remediation company, the remediation process, average cost, & more.
Outdoor Mold Prevention and Removal
Outdoor mold remover. Outdoor mold killer. How do you remove mold from outdoor furniture, carpet, and more? Come learn more about outdoor mold prevention and removal.
Does Soda Blasting Or Dry Ice Blasting For Mold Removal Work?
Ever heard of dry ice blasting for mold removal? Dry ice blasting mold remediation is becoming a more common practice. But does it work? Let’s find out!
Biofilm and Mold
Biofilm - it's everywhere. But what's mold got to do with it? Biofilm and mold go hand in hand. Come learn how to remove biofilm and prevent mold growth.
How To Prevent and Remove Mold In Houseplant Soil
Are you battling mold in potting soil? Need to know how to get rid of mold in plant soil? Grab these tips and tricks to prevent & remove mold in houseplant soil
Vital Oxide Review
Vital Oxide - does it really kill mold? Does it prevent mold? This Vital Oxide review gives you the information you need to know about this mold remover.
Concrobium Mold Control Review
Concrobium Mold Control - does it really kill mold? Does it prevent mold? This Concrobium review gives you the information you need to know about this mold remover.
PureBiotics Mist and Chrisal Review
PureBiotics Mist - does it really kill mold? Does it prevent mold? This PureBiotics review gives you the information you need to know about this mold remover.
Benefect Review
Benefect Botanical Disinfectant - does it really kill mold? What about Decon 30? This Benefect review gives you the information you need to know about this mold remover.
Does Lysol Kill Mold?
Does Lysol really kill mold? Learn about the different Lysol products and whether or not they really kill mold.
Mold Monster Review
Mold Monster - does it really kill mold? Does it work at all? This Mold Monster review gives you the information you need to know about this mold remover.
RMR-86 Review
RMR-86 Mold and Mildew Stain Remover - does it really kill mold? Does it work at all? This RMR-86 review will give you all the information you need to know!
Moldex Review
Moldex Mold Killer - does it really kill mold? Does it work at all? This Moldex review will give you the information you need to know about this mold remover.
Wet and Forget Review
Wet and Forget - does it really kill mold? Does it prevent mold? This Wet and Forget review gives you the information you need to know about this mold remover.
Total Solutions Lemocide Review
Total Solutions Lemocide - does it really kill mold? Does it work at all? This Lemocide review gives you the information you need to know about this mold remover.
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