How to Remove Mold from Walls — And When to Call in the Pros
- Quality Remediation
- May 15
- 3 min read
Mold on your walls is not just unsightly—it’s a potential health hazard. Whether it’s from a roof leak, high humidity, or hidden plumbing issues, mold can appear on walls in bathrooms, basements, laundry rooms, or any area with excess moisture. While small patches of mold can sometimes be cleaned safely on your own, it’s important to know the limits of DIY and when professional help is needed.
Is It Safe to Remove Mold on Walls Yourself?
For very small patches—less than 10 square feet (about 3 feet by 3 feet)—you can typically remove surface mold yourself using the right precautions. But if the mold covers a larger area, keeps coming back, or looks black or slimy, stop immediately and call a certified mold remediation professional. Certain molds, especially Stachybotrys chartarum (commonly known as black mold), can be toxic and dangerous to handle without proper protection.
DIY Mold Removal for Small Areas
If your mold problem is small and surface-level, here’s how to tackle it safely:
🔧 What You’ll Need:
Gloves (non-porous, like nitrile or rubber)
N95 mask or respirator
Protective goggles
Plastic sheeting or garbage bags (to protect floors/furniture)
Spray bottle with cleaning solution (see below)
Soft scrub brush or sponge
Paper towels or disposable rags
A fan or dehumidifier for drying
🧴 Safe Cleaning Solutions:
You don’t need harsh chemicals—these three options are effective for small jobs:
White vinegar (undiluted) – naturally kills most mold types
Hydrogen peroxide (3%) – effective and non-toxic
Baking soda and water – gentle on surfaces and removes odors
Step-by-Step DIY Mold Removal:
Protect Yourself & the Area - Wear your mask, gloves, and goggles. Open windows and doors to ventilate the room. Cover nearby furniture and floors with plastic or drop cloths.
Spray the Moldy Area - Generously spray your chosen cleaning solution directly onto the moldy wall. Let it sit for at least 10–15 minutes to allow it to penetrate and kill the mold.
Scrub the Surface - Use a soft brush or sponge to gently scrub the moldy area. Avoid spreading the mold—don’t use a dry cloth or brush that can release spores into the air.
Wipe Clean - Wipe away the mold and any residue with disposable rags or paper towels. Discard them in a sealed garbage bag.
Dry Completely - Mold thrives in moisture, so dry the area thoroughly using fans or a dehumidifier. Don’t let moisture linger.
Monitor for Regrowth - Check the area over the next few days. If the mold returns, it could mean a deeper issue, such as a hidden leak or internal wall mold—and it’s time to call in the pros.
Important Warnings:
NEVER paint over mold. It will just grow back under the paint—and possibly spread.
Don’t mix cleaning agents. Especially bleach and vinegar or ammonia—it can create toxic fumes.
Don’t attempt DIY if...
The mold covers more than 10 square feet
You or anyone in the home has asthma, allergies, or immune issues
You suspect black mold or if the mold appears slimy, dark, or textured
There is a musty odor but you can’t see visible mold (it could be behind walls)
When to Call Quality Remediation
If your mold problem is larger than a small patch or keeps coming back, it’s time to bring in the professionals. Mold can cause respiratory problems, skin irritation, fatigue, and more—especially in children, older adults, and pets.
At Quality Remediation, we use advanced tools to detect, test, and eliminate mold at the source. We don’t just clean what you can see—we ensure your home or business is safe and mold-free from the inside out.
Don’t Risk Your Health or Home
📞 Call Quality Remediation today for a professional mold inspection or full remediation service.Whether it’s hidden behind your drywall or covering an entire room, we’ve got the expertise to handle it safely and effectively.
Your fast, friendly, efficient mold removal experts
Find a Location Near You
Comments