How to Remove Mold After a Flood

Mold removal is a key part of the flood cleanup process. If floodwater leaves mold in your home, it’s important to know how to remove it as well as be aware of what moldy items can be cleaned instead of replaced.

Is Mold Dangerous?

Mold can cause health conditions such as asthma attacks, wheezing, sore throat, allergic reactions and itchy skin and eyes, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says.

Children, as well as adults with asthma or weakened immune systems, should avoid moldy environments. If you see or smell mold in your home, the EPA suggests wearing protective gloves, goggles and a mask with a respirator during the cleanup process.

Can Mold Cause Damage?

From basements and kitchens to wood and fabric, mold can grow anywhere. In addition to causing health problems, mold can damage a number of items. The Federal Emergency Management Agency says porous items that were exposed to floodwater and not cleaned and dried within 48 hours should be thrown out. That includes objects such as drywall, mattresses, carpeting, couches and books.

How Do You Clean Moldy Surfaces?

Non-porous items like metal, plastic and glass can be cleaned and disinfected, FEMA says. Those items can be washed with a non-ammonia detergent and hot water, and then disinfected with a 10 percent bleach solution, according to FEMA.

Products like Concrobium Mold Control can also eliminate mold on porous surfaces such as wood, drywall and concrete. Concrobium kills mold spores as it dries, allowing you to wipe or scrub off remaining mold residue. The solution, which is available as a spray, aerosol and fogger, also leaves a barrier to help prevent mold growth.

If you still see or smell mold after your flood cleanup efforts, the EPA suggests hiring a mold remediation expert.