Effective Ways to Eliminate Black Mold

While some molds and fungi, like blue cheese and mushrooms, are beneficial, black mold in your home is a cause for concern. It often indicates poor ventilation and excessive moisture, which can lead to health issues for some people. Although there’s talk of a specific "toxic black mold" (Stachybotrys chartarum), research hasn’t proven it to be more harmful than other molds. Regardless, any mold in your home should be promptly addressed and removed.

For small areas of allergic or pathogenic black mold, you can tackle the problem using basic cleaning supplies and some effort. However, for larger infestations or toxic mold, hiring a professional mold removal service is advisable. The U.S. Department of Environmental Protection suggests professional intervention for mold colonies exceeding 10 square feet (about a 3-foot by 3-foot area). If your mold issue is smaller, follow the steps below to remove black mold from showers, walls, and wooden surfaces.

Key Considerations Before Starting

Exposure to mold, whether through inhalation or direct contact, can trigger allergic or respiratory issues. To protect yourself, wear a mask, rubber gloves, and eye protection during cleanup. Enhance airflow by turning on vent fans or opening doors and windows to improve ventilation in your workspace. When using bleach, take care to avoid inhaling its fumes, and never mix it with ammonia, vinegar, or any acidic substances.

We’ve outlined multiple methods for mold removal below. If one approach doesn’t yield results, feel free to try another—just ensure you don’t mix incompatible chemicals. Always rinse the area thoroughly with water before switching to a different cleaning solution.

Essential Supplies

Tools and Equipment

Materials

Step-by-Step Guide

Removing Black Mold in the Shower (Using Chlorine Bleach)

Prepare the bleach solution.

Combine one cup of bleach with one gallon of water (or a 1:16 ratio of chlorine bleach to water) in a large bucket or bowl.

Apply the bleach solution.

While wearing rubber gloves, soak a sponge or sponge mop in the mixture and thoroughly wet the mold. For hard-to-reach spots like bathtub edges or corners, soak cotton balls in the solution and place them directly on the mold. Let the bleach sit for at least 15 minutes, then scrub the area using a nylon-bristled brush.

Thoroughly Rinse

Rinse the treated area with water and let the shower air dry. If stains persist, repeat the process to treat the area again.

Removing Black Mold in the Shower (Using Hydrogen Peroxide)

Prepare the hydrogen peroxide solution.

Fill a spray bottle with fresh, undiluted hydrogen peroxide for convenient application.

Apply the hydrogen peroxide.

Spray hydrogen peroxide directly onto the mold. It should start to bubble or fizz. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes or until the fizzing subsides.

Scrub and rinse thoroughly.

Use a scrub brush to clean the area. Rinse well and repeat the process if necessary.

Eliminating Black Mold in the Shower (Using Distilled White Vinegar)

Note: The acidity in distilled white vinegar or cleaning vinegar can kill mold, but it works slower than other cleaners. Discoloration may persist and require additional treatment with another cleaner.

Prepare the vinegar solution.

Fill a spray bottle with undiluted distilled white vinegar.

Apply the vinegar spray.

Spray the vinegar directly onto the moldy surface and let it sit for one hour.

Scrub and rinse the area.

Reapply vinegar to the moldy areas and scrub using a nylon-bristled brush. Rinse the surfaces completely with water.

Eliminate stains and discoloration.

Use hydrogen peroxide, diluted chlorine bleach, or a commercial tile cleaner along with a nylon brush to remove any lingering stains.

Removing Black Mold in the Shower (Using Baking Soda or Borax)

Note: While borax and baking soda can prevent mold growth, they are less effective at killing mold or removing stains compared to other methods.

Create a cleaning paste.

Combine half a cup of baking soda or borax with a few tablespoons of water in a small bowl. Adjust the mixture until it forms a spreadable paste.

Apply the paste, wait, and scrub.

Using gloved hands or a sponge, spread the paste over the mold. Allow it to sit for at least 30 minutes, then scrub the area with a damp brush.

Rinse thoroughly.

Thoroughly rinse the paste off with water.

Eliminate stains.

Use hydrogen peroxide, diluted chlorine bleach, or a commercial tile cleaner to tackle any remaining stains.

Removing Black Mold on Walls

A diluted chlorine bleach solution is the most effective way to eliminate black mold on walls, but alternatives include undiluted hydrogen peroxide or a mix of distilled white vinegar and dishwashing liquid. Avoid mixing chemicals—stick to one method and rinse thoroughly before switching to another if needed.

Prepare the bleach solution.

For large walls, combine one part dishwashing liquid, 10 parts bleach, and 20 parts water in a plastic bucket. For smaller areas, mix one tablespoon of dishwashing liquid, 1/2 cup of chlorine bleach, and one cup of warm water in a spray bottle.

Apply the solution to the moldy wall.

Begin at the base of the wall and use a sponge or spray bottle to apply the mixture. Avoid oversaturating the wall to prevent drywall damage. For mold near the ceiling, use a sturdy ladder or a sponge mop for application.

Allow the wall to air dry.

Avoid scrubbing or rinsing the area. Let the wall dry naturally.

Inspect for lingering stains or discoloration.

Once the wall is fully dry, check for any stains. If discoloration remains, repeat the process with a new batch of the cleaning solution.

Removing Black Mold on Wood (Painted or Sealed)

Clean the surface.

Combine 1 tablespoon of dishwashing liquid with 1 quart of warm water. Gently scrub the wood using a soft-bristled brush. Work in small sections and avoid over-saturating the wood. Use a sponge to wipe away excess water as you clean.

Address small mold growth.

Fill a spray bottle with distilled white vinegar and lightly mist the wood. Let the vinegar sit and air-dry for at least one hour. If no stains remain, polish the surface with a microfiber cloth.

Tackle extensive mold growth.

For large or severe mold infestations, use chlorine bleach. Mix 1 tablespoon of dishwashing liquid, 1/2 cup of chlorine bleach, and 1 cup of warm water. Apply the solution to the moldy area with a sponge and let the wood air dry. Finish by buffing with a soft cloth. Repeat if necessary.

Removing Black Mold on Wood (Unsealed or Unpainted)

Prepare the cleaning solution.

In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of dishwashing liquid, 1/2 cup of chlorine bleach, and 1 cup of warm water.

Apply the solution.

Use a soft-bristled brush to apply the mixture to the moldy area, scrub gently, and let it air dry.

Eliminate stains.

If mold stains persist, sand the wood surface to remove deeply embedded spores. Once sanded, seal the wood to protect against future mold damage.