5 Reasons You Shouldn’t Use Bleach On Mold

Mold can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare, and when discovered, the immediate instinct might be to grab the nearest bottle of bleach. However, this commonly held solution might not be the panacea it’s often thought to be. Here’s why using bleach on mold, especially without professional guidance, is not only ineffective but potentially dangerous.

1. Surface Deception:

Bleach may seem effective because it lightens the color of mold, making it appear as if it’s gone. In reality, bleach only removes the color, leaving mold’s roots (mycelium) untouched and still thriving beneath the surface. Applying bleach on mold is not eradicating a problem although it may visually look better.

2. Bleach is Water-Based:

One of the primary components of bleach is water, and guess what mold loves? Water. Applying bleach on mold can potentially feed the mold instead of eradicating it, leading to increased growth once the chlorine has evaporated.

3. Toxic Fumes:

Bleach emits harmful fumes that can irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory system, especially in confined spaces like bathrooms. Prolonged exposure can have severe health consequences.

4. Porous Material Limitation:

Most household materials like wood, drywall, and grout are porous. Bleach cannot penetrate these surfaces to reach the root level of mold. The water content in the bleach can, though, further saturating the material and potentially promoting more mold growth.

5. The Risk of Mixing Chemicals:

Many homeowners might unknowingly mix bleach with other household cleaners, leading to dangerous chemical reactions. For instance, mixing bleach with ammonia produces toxic chloramine vapors.

The PuroClean Difference

Now, knowing the drawbacks of a DIY bleach treatment, you might wonder what professionals bring to the table.

Specialized Equipment & Solutions:

PuroClean doesn’t rely on off-the-shelf solutions. We use advanced equipment and tailored products to treat mold at its root, ensuring complete eradication. PuroClean performs all work in accordance to IICRC standards set forth by the S520 (The Standard For Mold Remediation). Per S520 guidelines any visible staining on a porous material should be removed as well as 18″-24″ away from the visible staining.

Expertise:

Mold isn’t just a surface issue. Identifying its source, understanding its spread, and knowing the type of mold is vital for effective treatment. Our team has the knowledge to address all these facets.

Safety Protocols:

Dealing with mold requires safety gear and protocols to protect both the homeowner and the technician. PuroClean adheres to strict safety standards to ensure no one’s health is jeopardized.

Preventative Measures:

Once the mold is removed, preventing its return is crucial. We not only treat the mold but also offer solutions to keep it from returning, such as dehumidifying affected areas and recommending specific preventative repairs.

While reaching for that bottle of bleach might seem like the quick solution applying bleach on mold does not eradicate a problem, it’s merely a surface-level, temporary fix that could lead to bigger problems down the road. By choosing a professional approach with PuroClean, you’re investing in the health of your home and its inhabitants. Don’t just treat the symptoms – eradicate the problem.