How to Use a Bleach Solution to Clean Mildew

Having a home is a wonderful thing until something happens and you find mildew or mold but no fear as a simple bleach solution can solve this problem. If your home has suffered water damage, mildew is likely to form if you have not cleaned or replaced the affected area. Creating a room in a basement may also lead you to finding mildew. A moist area that is warm is the perfect breeding ground. A bleach solution is easy to make and easy to use if you know what you need and how to go about using it. The following article will show you how.

Step 1 – Initial Cleaning

Using a bleach solution to remove mildew requires that you attack the mildew first prior to using the solution. Mildew and mold essentially have two layers. The first is raised and is the byproduct of the growing mildew. Below this is the active mildew. To kill off the mildew you first have to remove the first layer. Use a clean bucket and in it you will mix warm water with drops of the liquid dish detergent. Use just enough of the detergent to make the water somewhat soapy but not too much. Place the scrubbing brush in to the bucket and with a circular motion. Once the area has been washed down use a clean rag soaked in water and wrung out to wipe down the wall. This removes the soapy residue and any lingering mildew.

 Step 2 – Always Adhere to Safety

Before using a bleach solution you need to become aware of the safely hazards associated with bleach and adhere to some strict safety precautions. Regardless of the strength of the bleach solution it can still be very dangerous. When you use bleach only do so in an area with good ventilation. Protect your hands by wearing rubber gloves. Protect your eyes with goggles and your mouth with a face mask. Bleach can cause chemical burns on the skin, damage your eyes and cause burning of your lungs if inhaled.

Step 3 – Using the Bleach Solution

Fill another bucket halfway with cold water and add bleach. Do not make a half and half solution. A little bleach goes a long way. Always add bleach to water to prevent fumes and only use cold water for the same reason. Use a completely new scrubbing brush and dip it in to the bleach solution. Use it to scrub the wall in a circular motion. Do not worry about scrubbing the wall because using force will only cause the mildew to become much worse and press it further in to the wall. After you have scrubbed the area well use a fresh rag dipped in clean water. Wring it out and wipe down the wall. It is a good idea to use a dehumidifier in the room at this point to allow the wall to dry evenly and quickly.