How to Get Rid of Basement Mold & Mildew

Mold is a fungus that thrives in high humidity environments. Mildew is early stages of mold, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Colonies of mold occur as soon as 48 hours after the environment becomes wet. Mold can cause health problems to people exposed it and the spores, tiny seed like particles, it gives off. Clearing the basement of mold and mildew is critical to the safety of the occupants of the home.

Sponges
Shop vac
Detergent
Bleach
Gloves
Eye protection
Respirator
Fans or dehumidifier

Instructions

- 1
  Remove the water from the basement and eliminate the source. Use sponges to absorb and wring out small amounts of water. Use a shop vac to remove larger amounts. Ventilate the basement to remove humidity. If the source of the moisture was a broken pipe repair it. Flooding situations may be more difficult to eliminate and may have to run its course before the water source is eliminated.
- 2
  Remove and discard any moisture absorbent items that are wet. This includes carpet, rugs, furniture, and absorbent building materials such as drywall or ceiling tile.
- 3
  Wash all non-porous surfaces, solid wood, concrete, metal or plastic with a detergent and water mix. Use a stiff brush to wash the materials. Remove any water used during the washing process with a shop vac to eliminate moisture in the basement.
- 4
  Disinfect those same non-porous surfaces with a mixture of 10 percent bleach and water. Allow the bleach mixture to disinfect the surface for about 10 minutes before rinsing with clear water. Use a shop vac to remove the water from the basement.
- 5
  Monitor the cleaned area for about 48 hours for any signs of mold growth. Keep the humidity of the area low by using ventilation fans or a dehumidifier.

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