IICRC
Connect with social media!
  • IICRC Cleaning Training
  • Cleanfax
  • Subscribe
  • Blog
  • Online Store
  • Private Training
  • Pittsburgh Carpet and Furniture Cleaning Classes
  • Columbus OH Carpet and Furniture Cleaning Classes

The Cleaning Professor

Keep up-to-date on what it takes to learn the absolute best technical skills with carpet and furniture cleaning, spot and stain removal and color repair.

IICRC Classes and seminars

Mold Cleaning Solutions

11/13/2017

53 Comments

 
As seen in Cleanfax...

By Richard Driscoll

If you are a frequent reader of Cleanfax, you may remember an article I wrote titled “The Carolina Protocol.” It was the cover story of the June 2015 issue.

As someone who has worked in the restoration field and now teaches mold remediation, I am always seeking a lower-labor cost method of removing mold from surfaces, rather than the traditional methods of the past: Sanding, scraping, wire brushing, media blasting, etc.

The first lower-cost method I discovered was “blasting.” And while soda blasting and dry ice blasting have their place, and, if done correctly, do a really good job of removing mold, they also have some drawbacks.

When I discovered that hydrogen peroxide really works, as explained in “The Carolina Protocol” article, I thought we had finally found the best mold remediation process. The standard and guidelines in our industry describe the guiding principle of mold remediation as “mold removal,” but how the actual mold-removal process is performed is left up to the skilled technician.

As time moves on, other ideas and concepts come forward and must be considered, evaluated, and either accepted or discarded. In mold remediation, we now have two “cleaning” solutions that can be used for mold removal: Hydrogen peroxide and chlorine dioxide. This article looks at both solutions, comparing them to see which is better, or more appropriate, for our work.

Hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide, which is an oxidizing agent, is the same solution that most people have at home in their medicine cabinet. We use it as a common antiseptic for small cuts. When used for mold remediation work, the concentration of the hydrogen peroxide is higher than what is in the medicine cabinet.

Thousands of mold remediation jobs have proven hydrogen peroxide to be an effective mold removal (not mold killing) cleaning product.

The benefits of hydrogen peroxide
  • It is an EPA-registered disinfectant with a very broad spectrum and very aggressive antimicrobial efficacy.
  • A good oxidizing agent, it can attack malodors and stains.
  • The odor is extremely mild and not offensive.
  • It does not generate environmentally objectionable byproducts.
  • If accidentally contaminated, it does not generate any hazardous gases. The decomposition products are water and oxygen.
Limitations of hydrogen peroxide
  • Solutions of hydrogen peroxide are not stable in sunlight, so packaging and storage are an issue.
  • It is capable of damaging certain textile dyes.
  • If contaminated, the container will undergo rapid pressurization with the risk of bursting.
  • Hydrogen peroxide has no bacteriostatic or fungistatic capability.
  • It is susceptible to degradation if contaminated; therefore, containers and any water diluent must be very clean.
  • Peroxide is stable only under acidic conditions. As a result, it can damage surfaces that are not acid stable.
Chlorine dioxide

A more recent cleaning solution to arrive on mold remediation jobs is chlorine dioxide. Chlorine dioxide is a chlorine-based oxidizing agent that is somewhat like the well-known sodium hypochlorite, or standard chlorine bleach. Chlorine dioxide, however, has significant advantages over chlorine bleach.

First, for the chemists who may read this, chlorine dioxide, strictly speaking, is a gas at normal temperature and pressure. It is quite unstable and dangerous as a gas, so it is normally generated in water solution by a salt known as sodium chlorite. Please note that this is distinguished from table salt or sodium chloride. The “ite” versus “ide” suffix is important. For convenience, however, I’ll still refer to this item as chlorine dioxide.

Benefits of chlorine dioxide
  • It is an EPA-registered disinfectant that is active with a very broad spectrum and very aggressive antimicrobial efficacy. Of course, this substance can be a component of products that are not registered disinfectants, but, whether a product is Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act registered, always follow label directions. Also keep in mind that our goal is to remove, not necessarily kill, the mold and associated spores.
  • A good oxidizing agent, it can attack malodors and stains.
  • Operates at mildly acidic pH conditions rather than the strong alkaline conditions required for chlorine bleach; nevertheless, it is still effective over a wide pH range.
  • The odor is less objectionable than that of chlorine bleach.
  • It does not generate environmentally objectionable byproducts as would chlorine bleach.
Limitations of chlorine dioxide
  • Solutions of chlorine dioxide are not stable in sunlight, so packaging and storage are issues.
  • It is capable of damaging certain textile dyes.
  • It can produce toxic chlorine gas under certain conditions, especially if contaminated.
  • Chlorine dioxide has no bacteriostatic or fungistatic capability.
  • It is susceptible to degradation if contaminated; therefore, containers and any water diluent must be clean.
Summary

We therefore have two mold removal cleaning solutions that work. Both are effective and have been proven effective in field use.

Which is the better product? Hydrogen peroxide and chlorine dioxide are almost totally equal in mold remediation effectiveness. But, in my own objective opinion, I would personally choose hydrogen peroxide, primarily because it does not leave any residual.

Richard Driscoll has a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Clarkson College of Technology, an MBA from the University of Dayton and is currently working on his doctorate. He is a professor at Webster University where he provides graduate and undergraduate level lectures. He is an IICRC Certified Master Restorer, Master Textile Cleaner and an approved instructor. Driscoll has been consulted by state governments on legislation related to the cleaning and restoration industry. He also is the author and instructor for Restoration Sciences Academy’s MR-110 and MR-210 microbial remediation classes and MR-211 trauma scene clean up class. He is IICRC approved instructor teaching WRT and AMRT. He can be reached at [email protected].




53 Comments
charles epstein
10/12/2018 09:45:48 am

richard,i am a lawyer i new jersey working on a mold case. could you call me, thanks, charlie epstein 201 489 7600

Reply
Grand Rapids Mold Experts link
1/21/2022 07:04:33 am

Mold removal professionals are called in when the growth has gotten out of hand and is posing a health risk.

Reply
best mold remover link
9/4/2024 04:15:28 am

Easy application. Just spray, wait a bit, and wipe away the mold. Super convenient!

Reply
Jamaica link
1/30/2019 11:48:01 pm

Reading this article made me realize a lot of things. It has also parted me a lot of informations that will surely help me in the future. Thank you so much for this and I hope you would do more like this. This had been nice I hope to read more of your articles because you are such a great writer! To help you with your duties at home try our <a href="https://cottoncare.com.sg">sofa cleaning services</a> Just visit our site for more details.

Reply
best essays link
5/7/2019 09:54:48 am

Mold's presence kind of bothers me because that means that we aren't after cleanliness at all since molds do not grow instantly unless that something has been left unattended for a long time. Thank you for teaching us the ways on how to get rid of it. I hope that homeowners who sew having a hard time dealing with molds have learned so much from it as the processes aren't that hard to do and you just have to buys several stuff and do it!

Reply
check the website link
12/8/2019 05:02:54 am

More furniture thoughts and including effective objectives as well for interesting furniture products with us. Thanks for interesting office furniture techniques and tables,keep it up.

Reply
Midwest Mold Removal link
12/23/2019 07:51:42 pm

Would love to try this hydrogen peroxide for mold cleaning, if it does not leave any residual then this is the best way for mold removal.

Reply
The Mold Guys link
5/23/2024 04:33:00 am

Experience the difference with our 25 years of mold remediation expertise. Book your appointment today!

Reply
brawl stars gem hack link
2/4/2020 12:24:16 am

Brawl Stars Hack - Get to know the best way to generate unlimited free Gold and Gems using the best mod apk generator [Updated 2020]

Reply
how to get free money on cash app link
4/12/2020 01:28:24 pm

Not at this moment, as showed by an association specialist.

Reply
free robux 2020 link
7/3/2020 11:42:01 am

Indeed, you can bring in genuine cash on Roblox. Indeed, committed makers can acquire significant bucks. Roblox offers a couple of various income producing models, including charging others for access to games you make, charging steady expenses inside your game, and exchanging uncommon things that different players are happy to pay for.

Reply
go here link
8/30/2020 11:40:41 am

https://blackfridaydealsden.com/best-gaming-laptop-black-friday-deals-2020/

Reply
Decon Systems link
9/6/2020 11:08:42 pm

Here I am suggesting all to visit the site for more prevention from covid, you guys should clean your home for staying healthy. Thanks to site for making us more healthy with your services,thanks.

Reply
Mold Removal Company link
11/4/2020 05:29:35 am

Mold remediation is something that every one usually tries to avoid. It does not matter that how much you try to avoid these molds, they can grow anywhere and all your efforts would be in vein then.

Reply
Mold Testing Companies link
11/6/2020 07:59:36 am

When you experience mold exposure symptoms but do not have the proper tools and knowledge but do not want to waste any time or nerves, professional mold removal is highly recommended.

Reply
O2 Mold Testing Arlington link
11/7/2020 04:49:47 am

Mold removal professionals are hired when the growth has gone beyond the control and can cause health hazards.

Reply
Mold Inspection Cost link
11/12/2020 01:25:04 am

If black mold has affected porous materials such as concrete or board, then the problem becomes more complicated and you will need to hire a professional mold removal company.

Reply
Carpet Cleaning Pennsauken link
11/19/2020 02:06:53 am

Carpet cleaners can be hired because they offer different solutions and techniques for carpet cleaning. The process can be done only by professionals because they have knowledge and know very much about the carpet cleaning techniques.

Reply
Water Damager Restoration Boca Raton link
11/27/2020 01:08:17 am

Water restoration services is best option to avoid the home damages due to water. These service providers offer you services at reasonable cost without any hassle.

Reply
Restoration specialist link
2/16/2021 05:23:20 am

The water damage solutions I have ever seen, thanks for sharing us wonderful flood restoration and methods with us. We all are getting here excellent reinstatement services.

Reply
Eli Richardson link
2/18/2021 07:44:23 am

It's great that you talked about different options for mold cleaning. One of my cousins works in the mold cleaning industry, and he's always looking for new ways to help his business. That's why I believe your article will help him learn more about mold remediation. Thanks for the tips about how soda blasting and dry ice blasting make good options.

Reply
Adam Golightly link
3/26/2021 01:54:39 pm

My cousin has been thinking about clearing his mold because he would really like the area to be cleaner. He would really like to get some help from a professional in order to make sure that his home is cleaner. It was interesting to learn about the benefits of chlorine dioxide.

Reply
Indoor cleaning service link
6/2/2021 08:41:56 pm

This is a great help. Mold is not easy to deal with, it spreads and comes back even after a little time of cleaning it.

Reply
Nina link
6/8/2021 07:22:13 pm

Mold cleaning requires washing. They are pretty stubborn, so certain mixtures is at least needed.

Reply
EVIE TAYLOR link
7/14/2021 10:02:46 pm

Great blog. interesting post. Dry ice blasting is one of the best ways to remove contaminants from the surfaces without causing any damage. Cryotec blasting use the best quality dry ice and advanced equipment to clean the surface.

Reply
Brian Carter link
9/13/2021 03:55:54 am

It is very important to know how to clean mold from every surface of your home. The key is to remove mold before it spreads and becomes a bigger problem.

Reply
Earnest Caron link
1/6/2022 02:52:26 pm

Yes, thousands of mold remediation jobs have proven hydrogen peroxide to be an effective mold removal cleaning product.

Reply
Mold Removal Company link
1/29/2022 03:55:29 am

Mold is a common issue in many homes and can be difficult to remove. A mold removal solution that I recommend is Mold Cleaning Solutions. They offer a variety of solutions for removing mold from your home, such as their One Step Mold Cleaner. This solution is designed to kill the mold and remove it from your home. It can be used on any surface and is safe for pets and children. Thanks for sharing informative post.

Reply
Victoria Addington link
3/24/2022 10:32:18 pm

I was captivated when you discussed that hydrogen peroxide is proven to be an adequate mold removal cleaning product. I want to ensure that there is no mold in our new house. I should hire a professional to conduct mold removal services before moving in.

Reply
Tex Hooper link
3/25/2022 06:27:22 pm

I like what you said about using a good oxidizing agent. I think I have black mold in my basement. It always makes me sneeze.

Reply
westcoastrestorationinc. link
8/2/2022 08:41:28 am

Mold can compromise and weaken the immune system, especially if you are exposed to the mold spores. This mainly happens to people with asthma and allergies. Professional mold remediation can help improve the health of your family and even your pets by completely removing mold from your home.

Reply
Iris Smith link
9/28/2022 12:11:34 am

I appreciate you mentioning that the hydrogen peroxide used for mould cleanup has a greater concentration than what is found in a medical cabinet. The residence of my grandfather just flooded. There is mould everywhere, which is unsettling. I shall engage the mould treatment service to assist my grandfather in cleaning the house.

Reply
Son Mitchell link
10/15/2022 08:11:03 am

A more recent cleaning solution to arrive on mold remediation jobs is chlorine dioxide. Chlorine dioxide is a chlorine-based oxidizing agent that is somewhat like the well-known sodium hypochlorite, Thank you for the beautiful post!

Reply
Eve Mitchell link
11/9/2022 01:50:42 pm

It's good to know that hydrogen peroxide doesn't generate environmentally objectionable byproducts. I'm hoping that I can hire a mold removal company this week to look at my basement. I found a wet spot in my basement and I'm worried that it's creating mold.

Reply
Braden Bills link
11/11/2022 10:05:21 am

I've been having issues with mold on my property, and I'm not sure how to get rid of it. It makes sense that working with a mold removal specialist would be a good idea. I'll be sure to find one that uses the safest removal methods.

Reply
restorerz link
12/29/2022 05:29:41 am

If you’ve been affected by a flood, don’t wait to get help. Contact a flood restoration service as soon as possible to start the process of repairing and restoring your property.

Reply
Bathroom Remodel Services link
4/5/2023 06:12:35 am

We mainly work on property restoration but we also do home remodeling like bathroom remodeling and more!

Reply
Sean link
5/5/2023 06:24:09 pm

Cleaning mold off carpets is a lot different than an attic mold remediation job. If you're cleaning mold off carpets its best to do it correctly.

Reply
Dave Weilder link
5/20/2023 03:52:46 am

I recently read your blog post on mold cleaning solutions on the IICRC Cleaning Training website, and I found it to be informative and well-written. Mold is a common issue faced by many homeowners, and it's crucial to have proper knowledge and solutions to address it effectively.

Your article provided a comprehensive overview of different mold cleaning solutions, including bleach, hydrogen peroxide, vinegar, and commercial mold cleaners. I appreciate the way you highlighted the pros and cons of each solution, emphasizing the importance of understanding the specific circumstances and mold types before choosing the appropriate cleaning method.

One aspect that stood out to me was your emphasis on safety precautions when dealing with mold. It's essential to prioritize personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, goggles, and respiratory masks to minimize exposure to mold spores. Mold remediation should be approached with caution, especially for individuals with respiratory conditions or allergies.

Additionally, I found it helpful that you mentioned the importance of identifying and addressing the source of the mold growth before cleaning. Without addressing the underlying moisture issue, mold will likely return even after thorough cleaning. By emphasizing prevention and moisture control, you provided valuable advice for homeowners and professionals in the industry.

I would have liked to see some additional information regarding eco-friendly or natural mold cleaning solutions. Many individuals prefer environmentally friendly alternatives, and including a section on natural methods or eco-friendly products could have been beneficial.

Overall, your blog post served as a valuable resource for those seeking information on mold cleaning solutions. The clear explanations, practical tips, and emphasis on safety made it an engaging read. I would like to express my gratitude for sharing your knowledge and providing practical insights into this important topic.

Thank you once again for the informative article, and I look forward to reading more valuable content from the IICRC Cleaning Training website.

Reply
Dave Hinson link
5/24/2023 04:03:16 am

I recently read your blog post titled "Mold Cleaning Solutions" on iicrc-cleaning-training.com, and I wanted to express my appreciation for providing valuable information on mold cleaning solutions. Your article offers practical insights into effective cleaning methods and solutions for addressing mold issues.

Your article begins by highlighting the importance of using appropriate cleaning solutions to effectively remove mold. By emphasizing the need for specific products designed for mold remediation, you promote a thorough and efficient approach to tackling mold growth. This understanding is crucial in ensuring successful mold cleaning outcomes.

I appreciate how you outline different cleaning solutions commonly used in mold remediation. From commercial mold cleaners to natural alternatives like vinegar and hydrogen peroxide, you provide readers with a range of options to suit their preferences and needs. This variety allows homeowners and professionals to choose the most suitable solution based on factors such as the severity of the mold growth and environmental considerations.

Your explanation of the benefits and limitations of each cleaning solution is valuable. By discussing the effectiveness, safety considerations, and potential application methods for each solution, you empower readers to make informed decisions about the most appropriate approach for their specific mold cleaning situation. This comprehensive approach fosters a deeper understanding of the available options and promotes successful outcomes.

Furthermore, your emphasis on safety precautions during the mold cleaning process is commendable. By highlighting the importance of wearing protective gear, ensuring proper ventilation, and following manufacturer instructions, you prioritize the well-being of those involved in the cleaning process. This emphasis on safety aligns with industry best practices and contributes to a responsible approach to mold remediation.

One suggestion to enhance your article is to provide additional guidance on when it may be necessary to consult professionals for mold cleaning. While your article provides valuable information for homeowners and professionals, there may be instances where extensive mold growth or underlying issues require the expertise of trained professionals. Including information on when to seek professional assistance can help readers make informed decisions and ensure the thoroughness of the cleaning process.

Additionally, offering tips on preventive measures to reduce the likelihood of mold growth can add value to your article. Educating readers on maintaining proper ventilation, controlling moisture levels, and addressing water leaks can help them proactively prevent future mold issues.

Overall, your blog post serves as a valuable resource for individuals involved in mold cleaning and remediation. By providing insights into different cleaning solutions, emphasizing safety precautions, and promoting informed decision-making, you contribute to creating a more knowledgeable and effective approach to mold cleaning.

Thank you for sharing your expertise on this important topic.

Reply
mold inspectors in michigan link
6/12/2023 02:47:08 am

Great content! Keep sharing such valuable posts. If you're seeking professional services, be sure to explore

Reply
dean mitchell group link
6/22/2023 01:10:13 am

Excellent article, We appreciate you providing us with this wonderful blog article. I will be using this tips for my own clients so that there dean mitchell group go smoothly.

Reply
Comprehensive Concrete Overview link
3/4/2024 05:36:00 am

The content is well-structured, making it easy to follow and absorb the information.

Reply
The Mold Guys link
5/23/2024 04:31:39 am

Water damage? Mold problems? We're here 24/7 to restore your home. Call now for immediate assistance!

Reply
The Mold Guys link
5/24/2024 01:47:43 pm

Protect your home from mold with The Mold Guys! Their experienced team offers effective and efficient mold removal services. Learn more at
<a href="https://moldguys.us/"> The Mold Guys.</a>

Reply
mold removal services baltimore link
6/16/2024 11:08:59 am

Professional Mold Removal Baltimore offers mold remediation services to ensure a safe and healthy environment for homes and businesses in the Baltimore area. Our certified technicians are equipped with advanced techniques and industry-leading equipment to effectively identify, contain, and remove mold infestations.

Reply
Freedom Crawlspace Services link
7/12/2024 12:35:11 am

In mold remediation, effective solutions like hydrogen peroxide and chlorine dioxide are now popular for their efficiency and lower labor costs. Hydrogen peroxide is an EPA-registered disinfectant, known for its broad antimicrobial efficacy and mild odor. However, it’s unstable in sunlight and can damage certain surfaces. Chlorine dioxide, a more recent solution, offers advantages over chlorine bleach and is generated in water solution from sodium chlorite. Both solutions provide viable alternatives to traditional mold removal methods.

Reply
Sewer Repair in La Verne link
7/24/2024 05:24:52 am

We have been serving our neighbors from simple Drain Cleanings to complex sewer line and plumbing projects, our team believes in doing the job right the first time. We utilize the latest state of the art tools and equipment as well as expert-proven techniques to get the job done quickly and efficiently.

Reply
mold remediation andover link
8/14/2024 04:29:58 am

We provide instant and cost-effective demolition services for both residential and commercial properties. Whenever you are looking to renovate, full or selective demolition, expand, or clear a site, come to Femme Works Solutions for a service you can trust and rely on.

Reply
Online Cricket ID link
3/17/2025 04:29:09 am

Thanks for the useful information which you shared

Reply
Gold365 link
3/18/2025 05:19:32 am

Gold365 is a premier online gaming platform offering a wide variety of sports and live online games. Known for its secure transactions, exceptional odds, and seamless user experience, it provides exciting opportunities to win big. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, Gold365 delivers thrilling betting experiences tailored to your preferences.

Reply
Betbook247 link
3/22/2025 04:59:26 am

<a href="https://betbook247.com.in/">Betbook247</a> is a trusted gaming website for sports fans and online players. You can bet on popular sports like cricket and football, or try some new games in real-time. The site is safe and easy to use, pays winnings quickly, and is known for being honest. It offers good deals, helpful support, and simple sign-up. If you want a safe and fun place to bet online, Betbook247 is a great choice.

Reply
Betbook247 ID link
3/24/2025 04:45:44 am

Betbook247 ID is a trusted bet website for sports fans and online players. You can bet on popular sports like cricket and football, or try some other games in real-time. The site is safe and easy to use, pays winnings quickly, and is known for being honest. It offers good deals, helpful support, and simple sign-up. If you want a safe and fun place to bet online, Betbook247 is a great choice.

Reply



Leave a Reply.

    Picture

    Jeff Cross...

    ... is the executive editor of Cleanfax.com and an IICRC-approved instructor. His goal is to help cleaning and restoration technicians to become the best in the industry. He can be reached at (740)973-4236 or by email (click here)

    Picture




    Need a Mobile Website? It comes with your MarketingZoo subscription!
    Click here.

    Picture
Powered by Create your own unique website with customizable templates.