Mould Removal Cleaner
This cleaner uses vinegar, baking soda and tea tree oil for maximum effectiveness against mould. Vinegar is acidic, which helps break down mould and mildew, while baking soda scrubs and neutralises odours. Tea tree oil provides a natural antifungal boost, making this an all-in-one mould-fighting powerhouse.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons of organic sodium bicarbonate
- 10-15 drops of tea tree oil (optional, but highly effective)
- A spray bottle
- A sponge or scrubbing brush
Instructions:
Before applying any DIY cleaner or natural solution, always test it on a small, inconspicuous area of the surface. Different surfaces may react differently to certain ingredients like vinegar, essential oils or baking soda. Testing first will help ensure that the cleaner doesn’t cause any discolouration, damage or adverse reactions to the material. Make sure the area dries completely before proceeding with full application.
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Step 1: Spray Vinegar on the Mould
- Pour the white vinegar into the spray bottle and apply it directly to the affected area. White vinegar is a natural disinfectant that kills most mould strains.
- Let it sit for 30-60 minutes to penetrate the mould spores.
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Step 2: Create a Sodium Bicarbonate Scrub
- In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of sodium bicarbonate with a little water to form a thick paste. The paste should be easy to spread but thick enough to scrub.
- After the vinegar has sat on the mould, apply the sodium bicarbonate paste to the same area.
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Step 3: Scrub the Area
- Using a sponge or brush, scrub the area thoroughly to remove the mould. The abrasive action of the sodium bicarbonate will help break down stubborn spots, while its natural odour-neutralising properties will keep the area fresh.
- If needed, rinse the sponge or brush and repeat the scrubbing process.
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Step 4: Spray with Tea Tree Oil (Optional but Recommended)
- After scrubbing, spray the area with a tea tree oil solution (mix 10-15 drops of tea tree oil with 1 cup of water in a spray bottle).
- Allow it to air dry without rinsing. Tea tree oil acts as a natural antifungal agent, helping prevent future mould growth.
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Step 5: Rinse and Dry the Area
- Rinse the area with warm water to remove any remaining residue.
- Thoroughly dry the surface to prevent moisture from allowing mould to regrow.
Why It Works:
- Vinegar is highly effective in killing up to 82% of mould types and doesn’t produce harmful fumes like chemical cleaners.
- Sodium Bicarbonate not only helps with scrubbing but also neutralises odours and further inhibits mould growth.
- Tea tree oil is a natural antifungal that provides a long-term solution to prevent mould from returning.
Bonus Tip: For areas prone to mould, like bathrooms and basements, use a dehumidifier or improve ventilation to reduce moisture levels, which helps keep mould from returning.