Cleaning Mold and Mildew Before cleaning mold and mildew, always wear respiratory protection, chemically-resistant gloves and eye protection. Removing Mildew Don PPE and clean the area with bleach, mild detergent or a household cleaner. Scrub with a disposable brush, sponge or rag until the mildew is gone. Dispose of contaminated PPE. Removing Mold If you find small concentrations of mold on easy- to-clean surfaces like windows, tubs, tiles and sinks, it can usually be cleaned with disinfectants or a bleach and water solution. Larger areas of mold may require professional remediation. Protect yourself: don proper PPE. Remove or dispose of all damp or damaged materials: Start by removing anything that can be easily thrown away, such as wet wallpaper, rotted drywall, wood and fabrics. Mist with clean water: When cleaning mold and mildew, use a squirt bottle to mist the remaining area with clean water to help prevent the spores from being released into the air. Clean with soapy water, bleach solution or disinfectants: Mold can be effectively cleaned from hard surfaces using mild detergents, disinfectants or a bleach solution. Scrub mold away: Use a scrub brush or sponge to clean the mold. Frequently change the water and use fresh sponges. Old water can redeposit mold or mildew spores back in the same area. Thoroughly dry area: Whether you’re cleaning mold or mildew, it’s crucial to thoroughly dry the area for at least 48 hours. Use fans, dehumidifiers and carpet extractors to help remove moisture. The site must be completely dry before using again. Otherwise, the mold or mildew will continue to spread.
Hiring a Specialist According to the EPA, if you discover mold growing on drywall, studs, subflooring or your HVAC system in an area greater than 10 square feet, it’s best to hire a professional mold removal service. Improperly treating severe infestations can cause cross- contamination to other sites.
HOSPITALITY NEWS SEPT | Page 39
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