Tips for Cleaning Mold From Your Wood Furniture

Mold often grows in basements, attics, kitchens, and bathrooms. You can also find them on your wooden furniture. Wood absorbs water and moisture, which allows mold to grow on it. Therefore, many wood pieces of furniture got infected with mold infestation.

Mold growth is a common household problem in Canada. According to research, 70% of homes worldwide have mold.

Another enemy of wooden furniture is discoloration, which mold and mildew can cause. While wooden furniture is durable and can last for many years, mold can still make it look unattractive and reduce its lifespan.

Additionally, some types of mold, such as black mold or Stachybotrys chartarum, can cause harm to your family and affect their well-being. Therefore, you must take action if you notice signs of mold infestation on your wood furniture.

Products You Need for Mold Removal

You can use various products to clean off mold. However, there are specific products for the different types of wood.

Vodka, borax, dishwashing detergent, white vinegar, and hydrogen peroxide are some cleaning products you can use to get rid of mold. You can use them when cleaning your dining tables and other wooden furniture, as they can effectively disinfect surfaces.

There are products available on Amazon that are effective in eliminating and preventing mold growth. These include Mold Armor, Siamons International Mold Control, and Sporicidin Mold Stain Cleaner.

Removing Mold From Wood Furniture

Mold growth is a huge problem for homeowners with wood furniture. To get rid of your mold problem, follow these steps.

1. Wear protective gear

Wear safety goggles, rubber gloves, and a face mask while cleaning to prevent mold spores from getting into your respiratory system. 

2. Take the furniture outdoor

Place the infected furniture outside in direct sunlight to remove light mold and musty smell from wood furniture. Mold spores grow in places where there is high humidity, moisture, and darkness. Thus, sunlight and fresh air can effectively kill mold spores.

3. Vacuum the area

Vacuum moldy areas with a machine equipped with a HEPA filter to remove loose spores and dirt. Ensure the vacuumed material is sealed in a plastic bag to avoid spreading mold spores.

4. Use dishwashing soap and water

Mold cannot penetrate stained or painted wooden surfaces. Therefore, you can use a mild cleaning solution–a mixture of dishwashing detergent and warm water.

Add a teaspoon of dishwashing soap to a spray bottle filled with warm water and shake it up. Apply the solution to the infected area and with a soft-bristle brush, scrub the mold gently.

If the mild solution doesn’t work, use vinegar. It is known as an effective mold killer. Fill a spray bottle with vinegar, spritz the affected area and let the vinegar sit for an hour. Then wipe the surface with a clean, damp towel.

5. Apply diluted bleach

If the mold has penetrated the wood, you’ll need a stronger solution to kill spores beneath the surface. Use a bleach solution to get rid of the mold.

Mix bleach, detergent soap, and warm water. Put the solution to the infected area using a stiff-bristled brush or scrub sponge. Then let the solution air-dry on the surface.

6. Sand the area

Sanding is the best solution to reaching a mold deep in wood furniture if the bleach solution doesn’t work. With 100-grit sandpaper, sand the affected area slowly until you see no sign of mold growth.

After sanding, refinish the wood surface to restore its shine and prevent a future outbreak. Lastly, throw out all the rags and anything that came in contact with the mold. 

Did you know? Mold destroys more wood than floods, termites, and fires combined.

Let the Experts Save Your Wooden Furniture

Proper furniture care is crucial in preventing and killing molds, whether you have traditional or modern wood furniture. Take immediate action if you notice any mold growth on your wood furniture. Doing this means protecting these pieces and the health of your family.

If you’re struggling to remove mold on your wood furniture, let the experts fix the problem. Contact us today!

FAQs on Cleaning Mold From Your Wood Furniture

What does toxic mold on wood look like?

Toxic mold species may look grayish, slimy, or have a soot-like texture. Some mold has brown spots and furry orange.

Can mold on furniture spread to the house?

Yes. Mold spores on furniture spread when they are attached to clothing, skin, and hair from daily activities. Another cause of mold contamination is when mold remediation is done improperly.

Will a dehumidifier help with mold?

Yes. A dehumidifier helps remove moisture, which lowers the risk of mold growth in your home.