Mold affects nearly 30% of all homes worldwide! This data from WHO illustrates the extent of this issue. Mold is a fungus that grows in warm and damp environments, making it a common problem in areas prone to flooding or high humidity.
Ignoring it could result in numerous health conditions like respiratory difficulties and skin irritations. As a result, it is critical to manage mold growth as soon as possible. This article will go over the significance of mold removal and treatment and advise how to get rid of it.
What is Black Mold?
Black mold, or Stachybotrys chartarum, is a type of toxic fungus that can grow in damp areas of your home and appears dark green or black. Warm temperatures and moisture are required for black mold to grow and spread.
It occasionally produces toxic chemicals found in airborne spores and fungus fragments. These are known as mycotoxins, and they are highly toxic if ingested. Hence, it’s vital to have black mold removal treatment at the earliest.
What are the Health Implications of Black Mold Harmful in the Absence of Proper Mold Removal Services?
Some of the ways black mold might be hazardous to your health are given below:
1. Respiratory Issues
Black mold spores can irritate the respiratory system, causing breathing difficulties. Moreover, for people who are vulnerable to respiratory problems, inhaling these spores might cause asthma episodes or allergic responses.
Coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, and chest tightness are signs of black mold respiratory difficulties. In severe circumstances, exposure to black mold might result in bronchitis or pneumonia.
2. Headaches
Exposure to black mold can induce persistent headaches, especially in people susceptible to the mold’s toxins. The headaches can be highly painful and may last for days or weeks. If the mold issue is not treated, the headaches may become chronic and negatively impact the person’s quality of life.
- Skin Irritation
Skin irritation and rashes may occur due to extended contact with black mold. The skin may turn red, irritated, or blistering. This can happen if the mold directly touches the skin or spores are inhaled and induce an allergic reaction. The rash could be challenging to cure and reappear if the mold is left untreated.
4. Fatigue
Chronic fatigue is one of the most common issues caused by black mold. It sometimes weakens the body, so people cannot perform regular activities like showering or working.
Toxins produced by mold can influence the central nervous system, resulting in a continual sense of fatigue. This weariness can also impair concentration and impact memory and cognitive function.
5. Immune System Suppression
Black mold exposure can weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to infections and diseases. This is due to toxins present in the mold that tend to suppress the immune system’s ability to combat infections. It may result in respiratory conditions like bronchitis, sinusitis, etc.
6. Neurological Symptoms
In rare situations, black mold exposure can result in neurological symptoms such as confusion, memory loss, and seizures. Mold toxins can impact the central nervous system, resulting in various neurological symptoms.
However, it is crucial to emphasize that these severe symptoms are uncommon and only occur in extreme cases of black mold exposure.
5 Ways to Remove Black Mold
While it’s usually best to call in professionals for black mold removal, certain ways can help you remove it from your property by yourself. Here are the top 5 DIY tips on how to remove black mold-
1. Treat Mold with Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a standard antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral solution for excellent mold treatment. It’s safe on numerous surfaces, including kitchen appliances, worktops, tubs, bathroom fixtures, hard flooring, and wall surfaces.
To begin the process, take the hydrogen peroxide solution with 3% concentration into a bottle. To prevent discoloration or damage, test an unnoticeable section of surfaces. Saturate the affected area for ten minutes.
Clean the area with enough force to remove black mold and its stains. Wipe the surface dry once it is free of residual mold and stains.
2. Black Mold Removal Using Vinegar
Vinegar is a gentle acidic cleaning and disinfecting agent. It can also remove around 82% of mold species on non-porous and porous surfaces. It is safe on most surfaces but comes with a foul odor. However, its disagreeable odor dissipates rapidly.
Fill a spray bottle halfway with pure white vinegar because it contains roughly 20% acetic acid, and adding water will dilute its effectiveness. Leave the vinegar on the affected surface for one hour. Finally, use water to clean the area and allow it to dry.
3. Getting Rid of Mold with Baking Soda
Baking soda has many uses around the house, from absorbing odors in the fridge to treating heartburn – including black mold removal. It is not only safe for your family and pets, but it also absorbs moisture, which draws mold.
Shake one-quarter tablespoon of baking soda into a spray bottle of water until dissolved. Spray the affected area with the baking soda and water solution, then scrape the surface with a scrub to remove the black mold. Wash the surface with water to remove any remaining residue and baking soda.
Finally, respray the area and allow it to dry. This will eliminate any remaining mold and prevent it from returning. To remove stubborn black mold, use two parts baking soda with water and vinegar. Mix the combination until it turns into a thick paste.
Apply your mixture liberally over the surface and let it dry. Scrub away the black mold and spots, then rinse with water.
4. Scrub with Baking Soda or Borax
The natural mineral sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and borax have high pH levels. This baking soda and borax factor hinders mold growth and survival. Moreover, these items are pocket-friendly, readily available, and simple to use.
So, make a paste of baking soda and borax, add a few drops of water, and then apply it to the moldy spots. Give it 30 minutes, then scour the area with a moistened scrub brush. Wash well with clean water and pat dry with an old cloth.
5. Black Mold Removal Using Essential Oils
Essential oils are considered one of the best solutions for mold problems. The most common oil used to eliminate black mold is tea tree oil. It is a deodorizer, insect-repellent, as well as antibacterial in nature. Since it is a biological fungicide, it removes mold swiftly and prevents mold spores from returning.
Mix one teaspoon of tea tree oil in a cup of water in a container. Aggressively shake the container to mix the water and oil. Sprinkle the moldy area, and then wait an hour. Now, brush it away with a dry towel or a microfiber cloth. Remember to use protective gloves since essential oils irritate human skin.
The Bottom Line
Mold can have severe health implications if you do not treat it properly. Hence, getting rid of it as soon as possible is highly recommended. Mold removal should be done with proper precaution. But considering the risk involved, taking professional help is necessary.
So, if your house is serving from mold problems, then hire ONT Restoration. Their comprehensive mold removal services include identifying and removing the moisture source and any contaminated building materials from your property. They have over a decade of experience in the field, and thus, they will provide you with the best services possible.
