Why you should consider using non-bleach cleaners for mold removal.

Mold is a type of fungus that is naturally occurring. It plays an essential role in the environment by breaking down organic matter, such as dead leaves and fallen trees. It is a crucial part of the earth’s ecosystem and helps recycle nutrients into the soil.

It can be found everywhere and anywhere throughout the country, even in your buildings where it is not beneficial to be broken down and recycled back into the earth’s ecosystem. In fact, studies have suggested that a significant percentage of buildings may have mold problems, with some estimates ranging from 20% to 50% of buildings.

And regions that experience lots of rain, higher levels of humidity, as well as hurricanes, tropical storms, and flooding, have more favorable conditions for mold growth. In Florida, a 2017 study by the University of Florida found that over 90% of buildings surveyed had at least some mold spores present in the indoor air.

Mold can be found everywhere in commercial and industrial facilities beyond just the bathroom. It can also be found in HVAC systems and ductwork; food processing and storage areas; cooling towers and water treatment systems; warehouses; construction sites. Basically, anywhere there is a potential buildup of moisture or humidity, a leak, or a buildup of organic matter.

The dangers of mold

Most people are aware that mold can be dangerous to human health as it can cause various health problems, including allergic reactions, respiratory problems, neurological problems, infections, and more.

But what most people don’t think about when considering the dangers of mold is the
potential damage it can cause to building structures and personal property.

It can cause structural damage. Mold can weaken and degrade building materials such as wood, drywall, and insulation, leading to damage over time.

Mold can discolor and damage painted surfaces, wallpaper, and other decorative finishes.

It can cause corrosion and damage to electrical systems, leading to short circuits, power outages, and even fire hazards.

Mold can grow in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, leading to reduced efficiency, system failure, and the spread of mold spores throughout the building.

In addition to damaging the building structure, mold can damage personal property such as furniture and books.
Mold should be addressed as soon as it is detected to minimize damage. This involves removing the mold, cleaning affected surfaces, and making necessary repairs.

What should be used to remove mold?

Mold removal can involve physically removing the mold using scrub brushes, vacuums, and a HEPA filter, which removes mold spores from the air. It can also include a chemical treatment to kill and prevent mold growth. Chlorine bleach is the most common chemical treatment. While bleach cleaners have many benefits, like its ability to remove mold, disinfect surfaces, and be used in a variety of applications, it comes with a lot of issues. Many of which are causing facilities to move away from bleach. Issues like:

Health hazards: If not used properly, bleach can be harmful to human health and can irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory system. The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required, adding additional cost.

Environmental hazards: If not disposed of properly, bleach can harm the environment and contaminate water and soil.

Damage to surfaces: If not diluted properly, bleach can cause damage to surfaces, especially materials like metal, rubber, or plastic.

Odors: Using bleach may produce strong odors that can be unpleasant for workers and may require additional ventilation.

Did you know that bleach chlorine can be considered a registered pesticide with the EPA? Because bleach can be used for sanitizing or disinfecting, it is regarded as a pesticide when a pesticidal claim is made, including but not limited to, “Kills 99.9% of bacteria and viruses!” An easy way to tell if bleach is a pesticide is to look for an EPA Registration Number on the label. If there’s an EPA Reg. Number, it’s a pesticide. (Source: Michigan.gov.)

There is a time and place for bleach

However, when it comes to stain removal, not killing surface mold and mildew, non-bleach cleaners are recommended.

Non-bleach cleaners, such as CLR PRO® Mold & Mildew Stain Remover, are generally considered safer, as they do not produce harmful fumes or cause irritation to the eyes, skin, or lungs. They are also considered to be more “environmentally friendly” as they are generally made from more natural ingredients and do not contain harsh chemicals that can harm the environment. An added benefit is that they can be less likely to cause damage to surfaces such as fabrics, carpet, and wood.

However, when considering whether to use bleach or non-bleach cleaners, know that non-bleach cleaners do not kill and may not be effective in all situations, like when dealing with tough stains or heavy growth.

Contact your CLR PRO® rep for questions or guidance on removing mold and mildew stains.