How to Use Borax to Kill Mold? | Quick, Cheap & Easy Method

You will commonly spot mold in your home, especially in areas like the basement, where humid climate conditions are commonplace. Yet, it can quickly become an intolerable situation. If you can’t afford professional remediation services and are looking for a DIY option that works well, using Borax as a detergent is a proven method.

Unlike bleach, which cleans the surface but leaves the root system intact, allowing mold to grow back, Borax tackles the roots deeply from the wet walls to porous Wood furniture.

What is Borax?

Borax, also known as sodium tetraborate — is a natural white mineral that appears as a salt powder compound. Its other names also refer to sodium borate and sodium tetraborate. This compound is primarily sourced from dried-up lake beds, mined, and then ground into a fine powder.

It contains boron, a non-metal element, and is alkaline with a pH of 9.3. It is widely used in making glass and ceramics, and due to its alkaline properties, it is a critical ingredient in many cleaning products.

Additionally, Borax can be processed into boric acid, another valuable substance in various applications as an insect killer and fungicide purposes.

Safe and Effective Use of Borax

Borax is an effective cleaner and a natural deodorizer, insecticide, and herbicide. When dealing with mold, it’s essential to understand the relationship between houses and humidity. Mold can enter our lives if conditions are wet and humid enough in the bathroom.

Mix Borax with water and apply it to the affected areas to eradicate this unwanted guest. Tackle this project with confidence, knowing you’re choosing a method to do the job right.

How to Use Borax to Kill Mold? – Simple Steps to Follow

Things you need to kill molds using Borax:

• Latex Gloves: Protective gloves from latex prevent direct skin contact with mold and cleaning agents.
• Brush: A stiff-bristled brush used for scrubbing mold off surfaces effectively.
• HEPA Vacuum with Wet/Dry Capabilities: A vacuum cleaner equipped with a High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter can handle both wet and dry debris to clean up mold spores and residues.
• Bucket: A container used to mix borax solution and carry cleaning tools.
• Rag or Towel: Absorbent materials for wiping surfaces after treating them with a borax solution to remove mold residue.

Safety Tips:

• Wear Protective Gear: Always use gloves, masks, and goggles to protect against mold spores and harsh cleaning chemicals.
• Ensure Ventilation: Keep the area well-ventilated to prevent inhalation of mold spores and fumes from cleaning solutions.
• Dispose of Materials Properly: Safely dispose of any cleaning materials that come into contact with mold to prevent spreading spores.

Method # 1: Borax Paint – Best Liquid Option

Unlike wall paints, you can utilize this solution similarly. Here’s how:

Step 1: Preparing the Borax Solution

Start by gathering your materials from your local big box store. You’ll need 1 cup of Borax, typically on the bottom shelf in the laundry product aisle. Additionally, secure 2 quarts of water—preferably filtered or boiling water to help dissolve the Borax more effectively.

In a bucket, mix the Borax with the water. Stir thoroughly until the Borax is completely dissolved. This creates a potent cleaning agent that is mainly effective against mold spores.

Step 2: Applying the Borax Solution

Before application, ensure the room is well-ventilated with air. Open all doors and windows to allow fresh air to circulate and prevent mold particles from spreading in the air.

Wear protective gear such as goggles, a mask (an N95 or P100 respirator is recommended), a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, and socks for personal safety. Secure your clothing with a safety pin to avoid clogs from loose fabric if necessary.

Using a brush, apply the borax-water solution directly onto the moldy surface. You can use a ladder to reach the above spots. Then scrub energetically to ensure the solution penetrates the mold and reaches any sub-flooring or wooden areas affected. After scrubbing, let the area dry thoroughly. Do not rinse the Borax, as the residue inhibits mold growth.

Step 3: Post-Application Cleanup

Once the area is dry, clean up any excess borax using a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter to ensure no spores are left behind. Wipe down all surfaces with a damp cloth to remove residual borax particles.

Method # 2: Borax and Vinegar Mold Spray – A Popular Choice

Using a Borax Mold Spray with vinegar is another effective method for addressing mold problems in your home.

Step 1: Making the Mold Spray

To prepare this spray, you’ll need a spray bottle. Fill it with 1/2 cup of Borax and 2 cups of white, distilled vinegar. The vinegar enhances the mold-killing power of Borax, creating a more robust solution that is effective against stubborn mold spores.

Step 2: Using the Mold Spray

Before applying, ensure the mold area is dry and free from any loose debris. Generously spray the borax and vinegar solution directly onto the affected areas and leave it to work for at least one hour. This allows the solution to penetrate and kill the mold at its roots.

Step 3: Cleanup

After the hour, rinse the area with clean water to remove any residual cleaning solution. Use a clean cloth to wipe the surface dry. It’s crucial to dry the surface to prevent any new mold spores from taking hold.

Precautions:

• Mixing Chemicals: Be cautious when you mix Borax with other cleaning agents, especially bleach, as it can produce harmful gasses.
• Check for allergies: Ensure no one in the household is allergic to latex when using latex gloves. Consider alternatives like nitrile gloves.
• Test Surfaces: Apply borax solution to a small, inconspicuous area first to check for any adverse reactions on surfaces.

How Long Does it Take for Borax to Kill Mold?

Here are some other options and the time required for each:

Hiring Professional Mold Remediators from Ventiluxes

• Detect all mold, both visible and hidden.
• Utilize top-notch equipment for fast and effective removal.
• Identify and eliminate mold sources, even in porous materials.
• Prevent future mold growth.
• Repair damage and thoroughly clean contaminated areas
• Save time and money with comprehensive removal on the first attempt.

If you have mold and want it handled quickly and correctly, call Ventiluxes for expert mold remediation.