Mold removal from Furniture Stored in Damp Basement

Mold remediation and mold allergy prevention

by David Barnaby, AllergyBuyersClub.com Staff

Editor's note: This person wrote to us about visible mold on furniture stored in a basement. The advice is good for cleaning mold in general.

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Hi Gary,
I would recommend however first going over the baskets, wooden and rattan chairs, and any other materials with a HEPA vacuum so any surface mold spores would be removed. Then, I would clean the items with a solution of hot water and detergent or non-ammonia soap. Scrub the entire area where you believe the mold is present. Rinse the cleaned areas with water and dry thoroughly.

Keep in mind that mold spores, whether they are dead or alive, will cause an allergic reaction if you have a mold allergy.

Your next step is to disinfect the surfaces of the items to ensure the mold spores have been killed. A solution of 10% bleach and 90% water is recommended. Keep the disinfectant on the treated material for the specified period of time before rinsing or drying. Typically, you should wait at least 10 minutes for a bleach solution.

I recommend you have proper ventilation when performing mold remediation, and to wear a mask and rubber gloves.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact me.

Thank you,

Dave Barnaby
Allergy Buyers Club Staff

For more information of cleaning up mold visit our Mold Center or Mold Solution Guide.

 

First Published: late January 2003
Updated: April 2007

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