The Local Guys Logo
How to Remove Mould from Ceilings

How to Remove Mould from Ceilings

How to Remove Mould from Ceilings: Ensuring Safety and Preventing Future Growth

Not only is ceiling mould unsightly, but it also presents potential health risks to all members of your household. Effective and safe removal of mould is crucial to protect both the structural integrity of the property and the wellbeing of those within. 

This article provides a comprehensive guide on removing mould from ceilings, the importance of safety precautions, and techniques to prevent future growth. Follow these recommendations diligently to combat mould infestations and maintain a healthy living environment. 

What You Need to Safely Remove Mould from Ceilings:

  • A face mask, rubber gloves, and safety glasses/goggles
  • Large sheets/towels to protect the floor and furniture
  • A bowl or bucket
  • Mould cleaning solution (DIY or store-bought)
  • Cleaning cloths or sponges
  • A spray bottle
  • A soft-bristled brush or scrubber
  • A stable step ladder

How to Remove Mould from Ceilings

When tackling mould on ceilings, follow these 6 simple steps:

1. Prepare the area

  • Remove whatever you can from the area so you have a clear space to work.
  • Lay down protective sheets or towels to catch any excess water before you start the cleaning process; you do not want water spills, your cleaning solution, or bits of mould contaminating the area below your ceiling.
  • Open windows or doors to ventilate the room, or make sure fans are on.
  • Finally, make sure you have a sturdy surface underneath you, whether you are standing on the floor or on a step ladder.

2. Protect yourself

Limit your exposure to mould as much as you can using protective gear. Gloves are a good idea when dealing with a mouldy ceiling, as they can keep you from touching the affected area. We recommend covering your nose and mouth with a mask to safeguard against potential health hazards and airborne particles. To keep dust and mould out of your eyes, wear clear safety glasses or goggles.

Protect yourself from mould

3. Pick your mould cleaning solution

White vinegar, baking soda, and diluted bleach are some of the most popular cleaning solutions for mould on walls and ceilings.

Vinegar:

  • Use a 1:1 ratio for vinegar. Combine equal parts of warm water and white vinegar.

Baking Soda:

  • For an easy baking soda solution: 2 cups of warm water and 1 teaspoon of baking soda.

Diluted Bleach:

  • To dilute bleach, follow a 1:10 ratio. Add 1 part bleach to 10 parts cold water.

Since vinegar and baking soda solutions are more natural cleaning products, they are an easy pick for people who prefer green DIY cleaning products. For a budget-friendly option, see what you have in your cupboard and then look up an easy DIY mould cleaner.

While diluted bleach is also an effective homemade cleaning solution to use against persistent mould, you should ensure the area is well-ventilated before using it. Open any windows or doors in the room, and flick on any fans before using a bleach solution.

When mixing together a DIY mould cleaner, remember to use lukewarm or cold water instead of hot water. This can help stop damage to ceiling paint.

4. Apply the solution

  • Place your cleaning solution into a small bucket or bowl, and dip a clean cloth into the solution. Squeeze out the excess water until you have a damp cloth, then dab at the mouldy ceiling.
  • Alternatively, pour your cleaning product into a spray bottle and spray it directly onto any signs of mould growth or mould spots.

Even with a protective sheet or towel down to protect your floors, you do not want your inundate your wall with excess water. Use a microfibre cloth or soft brush to gently apply the solution to the mould-affected areas.

5. Give the cleaner time to work

It is easy to wipe away most surface mould, but for a deeper clean that will remove unseen traces of mould from walls, you will want to leave your cleaner to work for at least 30 minutes.

6. Dry and ventilate

After cleaning, ensure the ceiling is thoroughly dried and ventilated to prevent the growth of mould in the future. Gently wipe away any trace of your cleaning product with a dry cloth. For the best results, wipe using a circular motion.

What are the Common Types of Mould?

While there are many types of mould that can be found in various environments, it is important to understand the common types that are often encountered in homes. 

Mould can be a common issue in homes, especially in areas with high humidity or poor ventilation. The types of mould that develop will largely depend on the environment and conditions present.

What are the different types of ceiling mould?

  • Alternaria 
  • Aspergillum
  • Cladosporium 
  • Penicillium 
  • Stachybotrys

What mould colour is the most dangerous? 

Black mould (Stachybotrys Chartarum) is the most infamous type of mould. Black mould is incredibly toxic, so proper measures and extreme caution should be exercised around it. Unsurprisingly, most people get anxious when they notice black spots or brown stains forming on their bathroom ceilings. 

However, identifying mould by colour is not the most effective method. Moulds like Aspergillus (a common household mould) can come in a multitude of colours, including green, yellow, brown and black. If you cannot identify the type of mould on your ceiling, consider contacting a professional cleaner. 

What are the Health Risks of Ceiling Mould?

Ceiling mould in areas with high humidity and moisture levels, such as bathrooms and kitchens, poses significant health risks due to the potential exposure to harmful mould spores. Mould, particularly black mould, can lead to various health problems if not addressed promptly.

People with asthma, allergies, or weakened immune systems are more susceptible to the adverse effects of mould spores. Inhaling or coming into contact with surface mould can cause respiratory conditions, allergic reactions, coughing, sneezing, skin rashes, asthma attacks and even severe lung infections.

The most dangerous mould can produce mycotoxins, which are toxic substances harmful to human health, even in otherwise healthy individuals. To mitigate these risks, it is crucial to address ceiling mould promptly and ensure safe cleaning practices are followed to get rid of mould effectively.

Removing mould using vinegar, diluted bleach, or other cleaners can help in safely cleaning mould off ceilings while minimising health hazards associated with mould exposure. Preventing the reoccurrence of mould growth is essential for maintaining a healthy environment in your household.

How Does Mould Affect Health

The 2 Worst Rooms for Ceiling Mould

The kitchen and bathroom are the two worst rooms for humidity issues and excessive moisture, as the steam caused by hot showers and cooking provides the perfect environment for mould growth. When dealing with bathroom mould, kitchen mould, or mould above the shower, itโ€™s crucial to address the issue promptly to avoid health risks. Here are the main reasons why these areas are particularly prone to ceiling mould:

Constant exposure to steam

Both the kitchen and bathroom are areas where steam and moisture are regularly generated, creating an ideal breeding ground for mould.

Bad ventilation

In many homes, kitchens and bathrooms have limited ventilation or air circulation compared to other rooms, leading to stagnant air and a build up of excess moisture. 

Presence of organic materials

Kitchens often have food particles, while bathrooms have organic substances like soap scum, providing nutrients for mould to thrive.

Frequent temperature changes

The fluctuation in temperature in these rooms, especially during activities like cooking and bathing, can create conditions suitable for mould growth.

It is essential to address ceiling mould promptly in these rooms to prevent health hazards and structural damage. 

5 Ways to Prevent Mould Returning

To prevent mould from returning, try to improve indoor ventilation and promptly address any moisture issues. Adequate ventilation helps reduce humidity levels, making it harder for mould to thrive and grow.

1. Remember to turn on your fans

If you have exhaust fans, remember to flick them on before you start to shower in the bathroom or cook in the kitchen. Fans will help expel moist air before it can cling to your walls and start causing issues. Adequate airflow helps to keep humidity levels in check, reducing the likelihood of mould formation.

2. Deal with leaks as soon as possible

Try to stay on top of your household maintenance. If you notice leaks or water marks anywhere on your ceiling or walls, call a professional to take a look at the issue. That way, ceiling mould wonโ€™t have a chance to take hold. 

3. Regularly inspect and maintain plumbing, roofs, and windows to prevent water leaks.

Save yourself future headaches caused by ceiling mould and water damage issues by keeping on top of your household maintenance. Routine inspections will prevent mould issues from getting out of control. 

4. Use dehumidifiers in areas with high humidity levels

There are a variety of inexpensive dehumidifiers and air purifiers you can buy for your home. Stick them in rooms you have had mould problems with to stop excess moisture and reduce the risk of mould growth. 

5. Consider installing proper insulation to prevent condensation.

By taking proactive steps to control moisture and improve ventilation, you can effectively prevent mould from reappearing and maintain a healthier indoor environment.

When to Seek Professional Help

Seeking professional assistance for mould removal is recommended in cases where the area requires extensive treatment or is difficult to access.

Here are 5 reasons why you might be better off leaving it to the professionals: 

1. Extensive growth of mould

If the mould covers a large area, especially spanning multiple rooms or floors, it would be best to enlist the help of professionals who have the necessary equipment and expertise to handle such a scale of infestation.

2. Hidden or hard-to-view areas

Mould that is concealed within walls, ceilings, or ductwork can be challenging to locate and effectively treat without causing damage. Professionals with specialised tools can identify and address these hidden pockets of mould.

3. High ceilings

Depending on how high your ceilings are and how comfortable you are on a step ladder (or step stool), trying to clean mould off hard-to-reach areas can seem like a daunting task.

4. Health concerns

Individuals with respiratory issues, allergies, or compromised immune systems should avoid direct contact with mould. This is especially important if you are already experiencing skin irritation or asthma symptoms.

Professional mould removal services can ensure thorough containment and removal, reducing the risk of exposure. If you have concerns about the danger of mould in your home, then getting an expert opinion is definitely the safest option for you.

5. Preventive measures

Experts can not only remove existing mould, but also implement preventive strategies to inhibit future mould growth, safeguarding your home against recurring infestations.

Final Thoughts

Maintaining proper ventilation and promptly addressing moisture issues are essential for preventing mould growth on ceilings. Regularly inspecting and maintaining areas prone to dampness, such as bathrooms and basements, can help identify and mitigate issues before they escalate into mould infestations on ceilings.

Incorporating regular cleaning routines using effective mould removal methods like vinegar, baking soda, or diluted bleach can help keep ceilings free from mould patches. However, these may only be a temporary solution. 

If you are looking for a long-term solution to reoccurring mould growth on ceilings, then call The Local Guys. Our skilled cleaners can help identify the mould on your ceilings and provide their expertise. Keep yourself off ladders and away from potentially toxic mould; leave it to The Local Guys! 

Request a Quote
CALL US 24/7
SMS US
chevron-down