Mould is a fungus that can grow almost anywhere there is moisture, warmth, and a nutrient source like wood, paper, or fabric. Not only is mould unsightly, but it can also cause serious health problems by releasing spores into the air that can trigger allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and respiratory issues.
If you’ve discovered mould growing in your home, you’ll want to eliminate it as soon as possible. One household cleaning product that is often recommended for mould removal is OxiClean. But does OxiClean kill mould effectively? Let’s take a closer look.
What Is OxiClean?
OxiClean is a versatile oxygen-based cleaning powder made from ingredients like sodium percarbonate and sodium carbonate. When mixed with water, the sodium percarbonate releases hydrogen peroxide, which acts as a powerful oxidizing agent to lift stains and kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
OxiClean is marketed as a safe, eco-friendly alternative to harsh chlorine bleach for tasks like whitening laundry, removing tough stains, and cleaning household surfaces. Many people have found OxiClean to be highly effective at tackling tough cleaning jobs, which is why some have wondered if it can also kill mould.
How OxiClean Combats Mould
The key mould-fighting ingredient in OxiClean is sodium percarbonate, which releases hydrogen peroxide when dissolved in water. Hydrogen peroxide is a well-known disinfectant and sanitiser that can kill many types of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, including mould.
When you mix OxiClean with water and apply it to a mouldy surface, the hydrogen peroxide essentially “burns up” or oxidizes the mould spores and roots, depriving them of the nutrients they need to survive. This can help stop existing mould growth and prevent future spread.
However, it’s important to understand that OxiClean does not eliminate mould on surfaces in the same way that chlorine bleach does. While it can kill surface mould and mould spores, it does not have the same ability as bleach to penetrate porous materials and soak into wood, drywall, and other building materials to kill the roots deep within.
Effectiveness of OxiClean on Different Types of Mould
Not all moulds are created equal, and some varieties may be more resistant to OxiClean’s hydrogen peroxide than others. For example, OxiClean may be less effective against certain types of black mould, which can be particularly stubborn and deeply rooted.
For lighter, surface mould growths like those commonly found in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements, OxiClean can potentially eliminate the visible mould if used properly. However, for more severe infestations that have spread into porous building materials, OxiClean may only scratch the surface, and additional mould remediation methods may be required.
Common Mould Types and Their Characteristics
Here are some common types of mould you might encounter in your home, along with their characteristics and potential resistance to OxiClean:
| Mould Type | Appearance | Characteristics | Resistance to OxiClean |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aspergillus | Green, blue-green, or grey | Common in damp buildings, can cause allergic reactions | Moderate resistance |
| Cladosporium | Olive-green or black | Often found on fabrics, wood, and paper | Low resistance |
| Penicillium | Blue-green or yellow-green | Commonly found on food, insulation, and fabrics | Low to moderate resistance |
| Stachybotrys (Black Mould) | Slimy, greenish-black | Highly toxic, and can cause serious health issues | High resistance |
As you can see, the effectiveness of OxiClean can vary depending on the specific type of mould you’re dealing with.
Proper Use of OxiClean for Mould Removal
If you decide to use OxiClean to tackle mould in your home, following the proper usage instructions is crucial for achieving the best results:
- Prepare the solution: Mix OxiClean powder with hot water according to the package directions, stirring until fully dissolved.
- Apply the solution: Liberally apply the OxiClean solution to the mouldy area using a spray bottle, sponge, or brush. Ensure complete coverage.
- Allow it to work: Let the solution sit on the mouldy surface for at least 5-10 minutes to give the hydrogen peroxide time to work on the mould spores and roots.
- Scrub and rinse: Use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub the treated area, then rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining mould debris and OxiClean residue.
- Repeat if necessary: For stubborn mould growth, you may need to repeat the process several times, allowing the OxiClean solution to sit for longer periods between scrubbings.
- Dry the area: Once the mould has been removed, ensure the area is completely dry to prevent future moisture and mould growth.
It’s also important to address the underlying moisture issue that allowed the mould to grow in the first place. OxiClean can kill existing mould, but it won’t prevent new mould from forming if the source of dampness isn’t eliminated.
Pro Tip: For particularly stubborn mould growth, you can create a stronger OxiClean solution by mixing one part OxiClean powder with one part warm water. Apply this paste-like mixture directly to the mouldy area, let it sit for an extended period (up to several hours or overnight), then scrub and rinse as usual.
Limitations of OxiClean for Mould Remediation
While OxiClean can be a helpful tool in your mould-fighting arsenal, it’s crucial to understand its limitations:
- Limited penetration: As mentioned earlier, OxiClean’s hydrogen peroxide has difficulty penetrating porous materials like wood, drywall, and concrete, so it may only eliminate surface mould without reaching the deeper roots.
- Ineffective on severe infestations: For widespread, deeply embedded mould growth, OxiClean may not be powerful enough to completely eradicate the problem.
- Potential damage to surfaces: The acidic nature of OxiClean can potentially damage or discolour certain surfaces like natural stone, grout, and unsealed wood if not used cautiously.
- Safety concerns: While generally safe when used as directed, breathing in high concentrations of OxiClean fumes or getting the powder or solution in your eyes can irritate. Proper safety precautions should be taken.
When Professional Mould Remediation Is Needed
In cases of severe, widespread mould infestations, or if the mould growth is the result of a larger moisture issue like flooding or water damage, it’s best to seek professional mould remediation services. Trained professionals have access to more powerful antimicrobial agents, specialized equipment, and techniques to thoroughly eliminate even the most stubborn mould growths and prevent future recurrence.
DIY mould removal with products like OxiClean may be suitable for minor, surface-level mould issues, but professional intervention is recommended for more serious cases to ensure the mould is completely eradicated and the underlying moisture problem is properly addressed.
Professional Mould Remediation Products and Services
Here are some professional-grade mould remediation products and services that may be more effective for severe infestations:
- Concrobium Mould Control: A line of EPA-registered antimicrobial solutions that can eliminate mould at the root level and prevent future growth.
- RMR Solutions: A company offering comprehensive mould remediation services, including moisture control, mould removal, and air quality testing.
- Fiberlock Shockwave: A powerful EPA-registered mould remediation solution that can penetrate porous surfaces to kill embedded mould.
While these professional products and services can be more expensive than DIY methods, they may be necessary for severe mould infestations to ensure the problem is completely resolved
Choosing the Right OxiClean Product for Mould Removal
When using OxiClean for mould removal, it’s important to choose the right product for the job. OxiClean offers various formulations designed for different cleaning tasks:
- OxiClean Versatile Stain Remover: The original OxiClean powder is a versatile option that can be used for mould removal when mixed with water.
- OxiClean Laundry Stain Remover Spray: While primarily designed for laundry stains, this spray can also be used to pretreat mouldy surfaces before scrubbing.
- OxiClean Mold Blocker: This specialized product contains antimicrobial agents specifically formulated to kill and prevent mould growth.
For general mould removal, the OxiClean Versatile Stain Remover or the Mold Blocker are likely your best options. However, always read the product labels carefully and follow the instructions for proper usage and safety precautions.
Pro Tip: When tackling mould with OxiClean, always wear protective equipment like gloves, goggles, and a mask to avoid inhaling fumes or getting the solution in your eyes or on your skin.
Commercial Mould Removal Products Containing OxiClean
In addition to the consumer OxiClean products available at most grocery and home improvement stores, there are also commercial-grade mould removal solutions that incorporate OxiClean as an active ingredient:
- Vital Oxide: A hospital-grade disinfectant and mould removal solution that combines OxiClean with hydrogen peroxide and other antimicrobial agents.
- Mould Armor: An EPA-registered mould remediation product that uses OxiClean and other oxidizers to kill mould on various surfaces.
- EcoTru Oxisolv : A biodegradable and eco-friendly mould removal solution that relies on OxiClean’s oxidizing power.
These commercial products often provide a more concentrated and potent formula than consumer OxiClean products, potentially making them more effective for tougher mould infestations. However, they may also come with a higher price tag and require additional safety precautions during use.
Alternative Natural Mould Removal Methods
While OxiClean is a popular and effective option for mould removal, it’s not the only solution available. If you prefer to use natural, chemical-free methods, there are several alternative options you can try:
- Baking Soda and Vinegar: Mix equal parts baking soda and vinegar to create a fizzy paste. Apply the paste to the mouldy area, let it sit for a few hours, then scrub and rinse.
- Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil has natural antifungal properties that can help kill mould. Mix a few drops of water in a spray bottle and apply to the affected area.
- Grapefruit Seed Extract: This natural disinfectant can be diluted with water and used to spray and wipe down mouldy surfaces.
- Borax: A solution of borax and water can be applied to mouldy areas, left to dry, and then scrubbed and rinsed away.
While these natural methods may be gentler on surfaces and the environment, they may not be as effective as chemical solutions like OxiClean for more severe mould infestations.
Conclusion
In summary, OxiClean can be an effective tool for killing surface mould and mould spores thanks to its hydrogen peroxide content. However, it has limitations in terms of penetrating porous materials and eliminating severe, deep-rooted mould infestations.
For minor, surface mould growths, using OxiClean according to the proper instructions can potentially help remove the visible mould and prevent further spread. But for more serious cases, or if you’re unsure of the extent of the mould problem, it’s best to seek professional mould remediation services to ensure the issue is properly addressed and your home remains safe and mould-free.
Remember, addressing the underlying moisture issue that allowed the mould to grow in the first place is crucial, as no amount of cleaning will prevent future mould growth if the source of dampness isn’t eliminated.
