Expert insight by: Brad Fishbein, Licensed Mold Assessor
Updated April 15, 2025
Not all mold needs full remediation—some small areas can be safely cleaned with the right products. This hub covers all major mold cleaning solutions, comparing natural and chemical options so you can make an informed choice.
If you're dealing with more than 10 square feet of mold damage on porous surfaces, it must be removed—and should be handled by a mold remediation professional.
These non-toxic options are ideal for small areas and households with kids, pets, or chemical sensitivities:
More aggressive mold killers—ideal for non-porous surfaces like tubs and tiles, but carry health risks:
Cleaning Agent | Type | Effective On | Safe for Porous? | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|
Bleach | Chemical | Non-porous surfaces | ❌ | Produces toxic fumes |
Vinegar | Natural | Bathrooms, tile | ✅ | Mild acidity, may not kill all spores |
Hydrogen Peroxide | Natural | Walls, grout | ✅ | Use 3–7% strength for best results |
Baking Soda | Natural | Fabric, tile | ✅ | Great when combined with vinegar |
Borax | Natural | Wood, grout | ✅ | Fungicidal and deodorizing |
Tea Tree Oil | Natural | Small patches | ✅ | Potent and natural, but expensive |
If you're unsure whether cleaning or full removal is needed, err on the side of caution. Mold can impact your health even if it's dead. When in doubt, contact a professional to assess the risk.
Meet the author: Brad Fishbein is an ACAC council-certified Microbial Investigator. In the fall of 2012, he became a Licensed Mold Assessor in the State of Florida through the Department of Business & Professional Regulation. Brad has helped homeowners with over 5,000 successfully completed Mold Inspections since 2009.