Are the Chemicals Homeowners Use for Mold Removal Worse than Mold? Maybe?

Because mold is so common, many people assume that its removal is a safe DIY project. However, it is dangerous to use the words common and safe interchangeably. It is easy to see why many people believe DIY mold removal is safe. There are plenty of products online and in “big box stores” that are touted as DIY mold cleaners. Although homeowners may want to tackle some mold issues on their own it is very important to remember that some of the chemicals sold as mold cleaners can be very harmful to you and your family.

Before you ever begin a mold removal project, no matter how small, you need to protect yourself with the right equipment. Masks, gloves, and eye protection should be worn at all times. This helps safeguard you from both the mold and the chemicals used to remove it.  Protective equipment will help you while you are working on the project, but be careful, when disturbed mold spores move easily. If not completely eradicated these spores can move on to another part of your home. 

If you start a DIY mold removal project it is important to know exactly what chemicals you are using. Disinfectants are used to kill microbial organisms, like mold. Disinfectants are regulated by the government, which is good, but these regulations don’t take into consideration what can happen if you use the product improperly. Even slight variations in the amount of product you use or how you use it can make it dangerous.

Many people use bleach as their go-to to get rid of mold. Bleach is seldom effective against mold. So many people then turn to other chemicals. Did you know that bleach mixed with an ammonia-based product is extremely harmful? When you mix them toxic gases called chloramines are produced. Exposure to chloramines can cause a variety of symptoms from nausea and wheezing to pneumonia and fluid in the lungs.  Combining bleach with acid-based products is also very dangerous. This combination creates chlorine gas. Chlorine gas exposure at low levels irritates a person’s eyes, throat, and nose. It can be absorbed through the skin and result in inflammation and even blistering. This combination is of particular concern because most DIY mold removers are acid based. 

Even if you only see a small amount of mold the safest way to remove it is to call a professional. Our certified Mold-Polymer Patented Technology can kill mold and keep it from coming back. Remember, mold can be dangerous, its removal should not be!