Mold Cleaning Solutions

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.


🟢 Natural Mold Cleaners

These non-toxic options are ideal for small areas and households with kids, pets, or chemical sensitivities:

  • Vinegar – Effective for cleaning mold in bathrooms and on tiles.
  • Hydrogen Peroxide – Antimicrobial; use 3–7% concentration for stronger results.
  • Baking Soda – Mild, safe, and ideal for scrubbing porous surfaces.
  • Borax – A powerful mineral-based mold cleaner with antifungal properties.
  • Tea Tree Oil – Natural and effective, but pricey.
  • Natural Mold Cleaners Guide – Compare all-natural solutions side-by-side.

☣️ Chemical Mold Cleaners

More aggressive mold killers—ideal for non-porous surfaces like tubs and tiles, but carry health risks:

  • Bleach – Works well on hard surfaces, but ineffective on porous ones and releases harmful fumes.

🧪 Mold Cleaner Comparison Table

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

✅ Final Tip

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.


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Brad Fishbein Licensed Mold Assessor

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.

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