The best way to deal with mold and mildew is to prevent them in the first place. One way to help prevent their occurrence is using mold and mildew resistant primer and paint in damp areas such as kitchens and baths. These solutions are specially formulated to make water bead and roll off instead of settling on surfaces or being absorbed.
Another way prevent mold and mildew is to limit moisture. Run an exhaust fan or even a regular fan from time to time to circulate air in an extremely damp space, such as a small bathroom or the laundry room.
If mold or mildew does appear, quickly scrub it away with a specialty cleanser or with plain old household bleach. For heavily contaminated areas, use straight bleach. For mild to medium trouble spots, dilute bleach with water. Simply fill a spray bottle about two thirds full with water and fill it the rest of the way with bleach. Scented bleach helps make the strong bleach odor more bearable.
Spray the affected area with bleach or bleach solution and let stand for about five minutes. Then, scrub away visible mold and mildew. Rinse the area thoroughly after cleaning and dry with clean rags or by running a fan.
Bleach or specialty products are the only substances that will fully get rid of mold and mildew. If the affected area is on or near a surface that should not be cleaned with bleach, look for a mold and mildew cleaner that is not chlorine based. However, understand that mold and mildew will spread if not properly treated, and they can be dangerous to your family’s health. They can be harmful to anyone, including pets, but are especially harmful for people with allergies.
If a mold or mildew problem is severe, consider contacting a specialist. There are companies you can hire to take care of the problem for you, if necessary.