Will Ammonia Get Rid of Mold? A Complete Guide
Finding mold in your home can feel like a nightmare. Suddenly there are splotchy stains and fuzzy growths covering your walls, tiles, or carpeting. Your first instinct is to scrub it away as quickly as possible. But which cleaners actually work to safely remove mold?
Some household cleaning guides suggest using ammonia. Its powerful odor and grease-cutting properties seem like they should eliminate mold right away. But is ammonia really an effective mold killer?
As a home renovation expert who has dealt with my share of mold problems, I‘m going to walk you through everything you need to know. You‘ll learn:
- What factors cause mold to grow in your home
- Dangers that mold poses to your health and home
- Why ammonia is not recommended for mold removal
- Much better solutions for killing and preventing mold
- When to call in the professionals for mold remediation
Let‘s start by looking at why mold starts growing in the first place. Understanding what allows it to thrive will help you eradicate it more effectively.
What Causes Mold to Grow in Your Home
Mold is present almost everywhere in nature. In fact, there are over 100,000 different species of mold!
Mold spreads through microscopic spores carried on the wind, commonly entering our homes through open windows and doors. These spores land on all types of surfaces.
But mold spores will only germinate and grow when the right conditions are met:
Moisture
Mold needs moisture to multiply. A relative humidity of over 50% provides an ideal environment for mold. Damp areas of your home like the basement, bathroom, laundry room or under the sink often harbor mold.
According to the EPA, almost 50% of homes have dampness issues that could lead to mold growth. Make sure to address any water damage, leaks or flooding right away to deny mold the moisture it needs.
Nutrients
Organic materials like dust, dirt, wood, and fabric contain cellulose and other nutrients mold uses to thrive. Mold especially flourishes on drywall made of cellulose paper.
Oxygen
Like any organism, mold needs oxygen. Stagnant, still air provides the highest oxygen content for rapid mold colonization.
Warm Temperatures
Heat accelerates mold growth. Optimal temperatures are between 77-86°F. Hot spots like attics or around heating/cooling equipment become breeding grounds for mold.
So in summary, mold spores need moisture, food, oxygen and warmth to proliferate into full-blown colonies. Areas of your home that get humid and lack airflow provide welcoming environments for mold.
Next, let‘s look at the harmful effects of mold exposure so you understand why it‘s so vital to remove mold promptly.
Health and Home Hazards of Mold
Mold may seem like just an unsightly nuisance. But it can actually pose some serious health and property risks that make removal essential:
Allergic Reactions
Inhaling mold spores or touching mold can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, causing:
- Runny nose, sneezing, red itchy eyes
- Rashes, hives, itchy skin
- Coughing, sore throat, wheezing
- Chest congestion, tightness
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, allergic reactions to mold range from mild to severe. About 5-10% of asthmatics are allergic to mold.
Respiratory Distress
Exposure to mold can worsen chronic lung illnesses like asthma and emphysema. Mold spores are easily inhaled, causing obstruction and inflammation of airways.
Those with weakened immune systems due to chemotherapy, HIV, or autoimmune disorders are at higher risk for mold-related illnesses.
Toxic Black Mold Dangers
While all mold should be removed, some types like black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum) are considered highly toxic.
The CDC reports that exposure to mycotoxins from toxic black mold can cause:
- Persistent coughing/wheezing
- Burning eyes and throat
- Rashes and skin irritation
- Weakness, fatigue, headache
- Shortness of breath
- Fever and chills
Structural Damage
Prolonged moisture not only encourages mold growth—it can severely compromise wood beams, walls, floors and foundations over time.
Mold colonies literally eat away at your home as they digest nutrients, weakening surfaces. Paint peels, drywall crumbles, and floorboards rot.
Lost Property Value
Homebuyers are turned off by visible mold or its musty odor. Mold infestations can negatively impact your home‘s value by 10-20% unless thoroughly remediated.
As you can see, those fuzzy mold colonies aren‘t as harmless as they look. Getting rid of mold protects your family‘s health and your biggest investment—your home.
Now that you know why mold needs to go, let‘s examine why ammonia is not the best way to tackle it.
Why Ammonia is Not Recommended for Mold Removal
Perhaps you‘ve seen hints online or in DIY books suggesting ammonia as a home remedy for mold.
It‘s true that ammonia has some properties that work against mold:
- Kills mold spores on non-porous surfaces
- Contains surfactants that help lift dirt
- Antimicrobial properties
However, the drawbacks of using ammonia far outweigh any benefits:
Doesn‘t Penetrate Porous Materials
Ammonia sits on the surface rather than soaking in. This means it can‘t reach mold growing underneath on materials like:
- Drywall
- Wood
- Concrete
- Painted walls
- Carpet
So even if you wipe down a wall with ammonia, any mold below the surface will continue thriving and spreading.
Provides Moisture and Nutrients
Ironically, ammonia both kills and feeds mold. How?
First, it‘s a water-based solution, so it provides extra moisture. Any areas that don‘t dry fully give mold more fuel to flourish.
Second, the nitrogen compounds in ammonia are a nutritious food source for mold. Like fertilizer, it helps mold proliferate.
Potentially Toxic Reactions
Never mix ammonia with other common cleaning products like bleach, vinegar, or rubbing alcohol.
When ammonia and bleach combine, it creates chloramine gas that causes:
- Cough, shortness of breath
- Burning eyes, watery eyes
- Chest pain
Mixing ammonia with vinegar produces irritating vapors as well. Avoid these dangerous chemical reactions by using ammonia separately.
Doesn‘t Stop Future Growth
Ammonia only attempts to kill surface mold temporarily. It has no lasting antimicrobial effects.
Once you wipe down a moldy area with ammonia, new batches of airborne mold spores can easily settle and start growing again.
Compare this to more effective mold killers that penetrate surfaces while leaving an antifungal residue to prevent recurrence.
Potential Health Hazards
In confined spaces with poor ventilation, inhaling ammonia fumes can cause:
- Nose, throat, lung irritation
- Coughing, choking
- Breathing difficulty
- Headaches, nausea
Always wear gloves and a mask when cleaning with any chemicals including ammonia. Avoid using large amounts of ammonia in occupied, enclosed areas.
Now that you know why ammonia falls short for mold removal, let‘s look at proven methods that actually work.
More Effective Methods to Remove Mold
To successfully conquer a mold problem, use a two-pronged approach:
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Physically remove as much of the mold as possible.
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Apply an antimicrobial solution to kill remaining spores and prevent regrowth.
Here are some of the most effective mold removal techniques:
Scrubbing with Detergent and Water
Vigorously scrubbing the moldy area with detergent helps lift and loosen mold so it can be wiped away. Using hot water further helps dissolve mold.
I recommend repeating the scrubbing process 2-3 times to remove as much mold as possible from the root. Make sure to thoroughly dry the area with fans or dehumidifiers so mold doesn‘t grow back.
Borax Solution
Borax is a natural mineral salt that can penetrate porous surfaces like drywall and decking to kill mold right down to the roots.
Mix 1 cup borax with 1 quart warm water. Dampen the affected surface with the solution and lightly scrub. Let the borax solution soak in for a few hours before rinsing. It will help prevent future mold growth.
White Vinegar
The mild acid in undiluted white vinegar destroys 82% of known mold species on contact.
Spray or wipe vinegar liberally onto the moldy area. Let it soak in for at least an hour before wiping away any remaining material. The vinegar smell fades quickly.
Concrobium Mold Control
This commercial-grade fungicide uses patented technology designed to bond to surfaces and prevent mold regrowth. No gloves, masks or rinsing required!
Simply spray Concrobium onto mold. It dries to an invisible antimicrobial shield that continues killing spores and stopping new mold. Lab tested to eliminate and prevent mold for over 5 years!
Professional Mold Removers
For severe mold cases, I suggest using professional-strength mold removers containing sodium hypochlorite or hydroxyl propyl instead of standard bleach:
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Axen® 30 – Hospital-grade sodium hypochlorite solution proven to kill resistant mold strains like Chaetomium and Aspergillus.
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ShockWave – Penetrating hydroxyl propyl mold killer able to eradicate mold on porous and non-porous surfaces.
Always ventilate the area when using harsh chemicals and take proper precautions like wearing gloves, goggles and a respirator mask.
Bleach
Standard household bleach contains 5-6% sodium hypochlorite that destroys mold cell walls.
Mix 1 cup bleach into 1 gallon of water. Apply the solution to moldy areas, allowing it to sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing. It works best on non-porous surfaces like tile.
Bleach can damage or discolor some surfaces, so spot test first. Never mix bleach with ammonia due to the toxic reaction.
Calling in mold removal professionals is wise for large infestations, mold inside walls/HVAC systems, or black mold. Their industrial-strength chemicals, protective gear, and high-tech equipment make mold removal much safer and more effective.
Now that you know the best ways to annihilate mold, let‘s go over some natural alternatives.
Natural Mold Removers
For mold prevention or removing small outbreaks, you may want to try natural solutions first:
Tea Tree Oil
Thanks to its antifungal properties, tea tree oil prevents mold growth. Add 20 drops of oil per cup of water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist directly onto mold to penetrate and kill spores. Its lingering aroma also repels future mold!
Grapefruit Seed Extract
This citrus extract contains antimicrobial compounds that destroy mold.
Mix 15 drops of grapefruit seed extract into 1 cup water. Spray onto moldy surfaces, allowing it to sit for 10 minutes before wiping clean.
Baking Soda
Sprinkle baking soda generously on moldy patches. Let sit for a few hours. The abrasiveness lifts mold spores from the surface so the area can be vacuumed. Baking soda also absorbs musty odors.
White Vinegar
This mild acid kills mold spores and mycelium on contact. Undiluted vinegar prevents future outbreaks. Just spray, wipe, and let dry fully. Reapply weekly as maintenance.
Always test natural antifungals in an inconspicuous spot first. Ventilate the area during treatment and make sure solutions dry fully.
While natural options work for preventing and maintaining small mold colonies, they may not pack enough punch to thoroughly remove heavy mold infestations. Their antifungal effects don‘t tend to last as long as commercial fungicides either.
Okay, you‘re now equipped to actively attack mold in your home. But preventing it in the first place is ideal. Let‘s look at proactive ways to keep mold from taking root.
How to Prevent Mold Growth in Your Home
An ounce of prevention is truly worth a pound of mold cure. Stopping mold before it starts is smart. Here are some tips:
Monitor Humidity Levels
Use a hygrometer to keep humidity between 30-50%. If it creeps above 50%, bust out the dehumidifier and fans to circulate drier air. Also run AC to lower moisture.
Aim to keep your entire home consistently dry. Pay special attention to damp areas like basements and bathrooms. Address any standing water immediately.
Find and Fix Leaks Promptly
Look out for leaky plumbing, roof damage, foundation cracks, and malfunctioning appliances that could drip water. Prevent flooding from storms or stopped up drains.
Repair any moisture sources right away before mold develops. Look under sinks, near windows and under appliances for less visible leaks.
Improve Air Circulation
Stagnant air allows pockets of mold-friendly humidity to form. Place fans or open vents to keep air flowing in problem zones like attics, crawl spaces and closets.
A dehumidifier also improves air circulation throughout larger areas in your home. Shutting interior doors can trap damp air, so keep them open.
Clean with Mold-Killing Products
Use antimicrobial cleaners designed to both kill and prevent mold in the bathroom. Keep surfaces like grout and tile free of grime buildup.
Immediately treat any small mold outbreaks you spot before they multiply. Vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, and Concrobium work great for maintenance.
Inspect and Clean HVAC Systems
Have a professional examine ductwork, air filters, vents and AC coils yearly for mold contamination. Ensure condensation pans drain properly.
Change filters monthly. Vacuum vents to remove dust buildup. Sanitize evaporator coils and drip pans with an antimicrobial spray.
Ventilate Damp Areas
Draw moist air out of damp basements, attics and crawl spaces using exhaust fans. Open windows when weather permits.
Insulate cold water pipes and seal air leaks that introduce moisture. Install moisture barrier panels and use mold-resistant building materials.
Direct Water Away from Home
Slope the ground so rainwater drains away from your home‘s foundation. Clean gutters and direct splashback away from siding using downspout extenders.
Avoid planting thirsty shrubs near the house or overwatering lawns. Position sprinklers to keep water off structures.
With prevention and prompt treatment of early outbreaks, you‘ll keep mold at bay so you can breathe easier.
Now let‘s recap some key points about using ammonia on mold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does ammonia kill black mold?
No, ammonia does not penetrate porous surfaces to kill black mold growing under the surface. For black mold, use protective gear and commercial mold removers or diluted bleach solution instead. Address the underlying moisture issue.
Can I use ammonia to clean mold from wood?
Avoid using ammonia on porous wood, since it won‘t kill mold growing within the wood fibers. Use borax, vinegar, hydrogen peroxide or professional wood cleaners. Lightly sanding then sealing the wood is also wise to prevent future mold.
Will ammonia remove mold from painted walls?
Ammonia can only kill surface mold on painted drywall, leaving mold that has spread underneath. Use detergent and warm water or alternate mold cleaners. Repair/replace damaged drywall and paint to stop recurrence.
Does ammonia kill mold on concrete?
No, ammonia sits on top of concrete and cannot penetrate to kill root systems below. More effective options include scrubbing with detergent, using a sodium hypochlorite solution, or applying a commercial antimicrobial concrete mold cleaner.
Can I use ammonia to clean mold from carpet?
Ammonia cannot remove the mold, roots, and spores buried within carpeting. Instead, use more penetrating solutions like vinegar, borax, or hydrogen peroxide followed by thorough carpet shampooing. Discard carpet with extensive mold contamination.
Conclusion
In summary, ammonia is not the best choice for removing mold in your home. It only kills surface mold temporarily while failing to penetrate porous materials to destroy the entire root network.
For successful mold killing, always start by eliminating excess moisture. Then scrub away as much mold as possible from the surface before applying borax, vinegar, bleach, antimicrobial cleaners or other proven mold solutions.
Combining physical removal with a disinfectant prevents regrowth. And be sure to address what‘s causing moisture accumulation in the first place to keep mold from returning.
With the right mold busting techniques, you can enjoy a healthy, mold-free home. Don‘t live with those fuzzy mold colonies a moment longer!
Let me know if you have any other questions about kicking mold to the curb for good. I‘m always happy to share my home improvement expertise!