Written by Dr. Diane Mueller Mold infestations are a serious concern that can lead to various health problems, including allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and even severe neurological symptoms. So lets dive in how to kill black mold.
When it comes to black mold, specifically the toxic species Stachybotrys, you really need to act quickly to remediate the issue. However, there are many misconceptions about how to effectively kill black mold. This blog post aims to provide you with evidence-based information and actionable steps to tackle this problem the right way.
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Introduction: Mold Myths and Realities
One of the most common mistakes I see people make when discovering black mold is reaching for a bottle of bleach. Contrary to popular belief, using bleach on black mold can exacerbate the problem. Let’s delve deeper into why this happens and how you can safely and effectively kill black mold.
First things first, it’s essential to note that not all black mold is toxic to humans. Many mold species are black, but the one that has garnered significant attention for its toxic effects is Stachybotrys. This particular black mold can lead to neurological inflammation, brain fog, dementia, fibromyalgia, among other health issues. Therefore, your first step should be to identify the type of mold you’re dealing with.
As a doctor, I want to make something clear: while certain treatments can kill black mold, that’s not enough. You must remove it entirely, and only a licensed mold professional should handle this task. Specifically, when we mention black mold, we’re referring to Stachybotrys. This type of mold produces mycotoxins, which can harm your health dead or alive. If black mold is in your home, you must remove it, not just kill it. Using cleaning agents and scrubbing might worsen the situation for you and your family. The bottom line: if your home has black mold, get it removed immediately.
To accurately determine the mold species, I recommend running an ERMI (Environmental Relative Moldiness Index) test. This test screens for around three dozen types of mold and helps identify whether the mold in your home is problematic or non-pathogenic.
One of the primary reasons to avoid using bleach or vinegar on mold is their tendency to cause mold spores to disseminate, or scatter, exacerbating the spread of the mold. When you throw bleach or vinegar onto mold, you’re not just killing it; you’re causing it to “explode” and spread spores, almost like splattering an egg against a wall. This could lead to the mold infiltrating other parts of your home, including the HVAC system, drywall, and insulation.
Attempting to DIY mold remediation can often result in the problem becoming worse. It’s crucial to work with qualified mold inspectors and remediators who can isolate and treat the mold without spreading it.
When selecting a mold inspector, opt for professionals who go beyond merely comparing the indoor and outdoor air quality. Good inspectors will take dust samples, even going so far as to insert a hole behind drywall to check for hidden mold growth.
Once the problem area is identified, professionals will quarantine the space using negative air pressure to prevent spores from escaping. They will use fungicides and various advanced techniques to kill the mold effectively, thereby ensuring that it doesn’t spread to other parts of your home.
Mold problems can have significant long-term health consequences. Therefore, if you’re experiencing health issues and suspect mold might be the culprit, take immediate action. Don’t underestimate the importance of professional advice and intervention in mold remediation.
If you’re facing health-related issues due to mold exposure, we’re here to help. You can book a discovery call to discuss your situation and receive the support you need to ensure your long term health is protected.
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