Are you tired of dealing with pesky mould in your home? Look no further than your kitchen pantry for a solution.
Vinegar, specifically malt vinegar, has been touted as a powerful mould killer. But does it really work?
In this article, we’ll explore the science behind vinegar’s effectiveness at killing mould and provide tips on how to use it safely and effectively in your home.
Say goodbye to mould and hello to a cleaner, healthier living space with the help of malt vinegar.
Does Malt Vinegar Kill Mould?
Malt vinegar is a type of vinegar made from malted barley and other grains. It is commonly used as a condiment for fish and chips, but it also has a reputation as a powerful cleaning agent.
So, does malt vinegar really kill mould? The answer is yes, it can. Like other types of vinegar, malt vinegar is acidic and has antifungal properties that can help kill and prevent the growth of mould.
Research has shown that vinegar, including malt vinegar, can be effective at removing some common household moulds. In fact, according to ServiceMaster Restoration and Cleaning, the mild acid in vinegar can kill up to 82% of known moulds.
However, it’s important to note that vinegar may not be effective at killing every type of mould. In a 2015 study, researchers found that vinegar made from 4- to 4.2-percent vinegar acetic acid was effective at treating Penicillium chrysogenum but not Aspergillus fumigatus. Both are common household moulds.
Understanding Mould Growth In Your Home
Mould is a type of fungus that can grow in damp and humid environments. It can be found both inside and outside of the home, and there are over 100 different strains that could be present in any particular environment. Mould spores are able to grow on surfaces of natural fibers, paper products, building materials, dust, soil, or wood.
Moisture is the key necessity for mould to flourish. Because of the conditions needed for mould growth, there are several areas around the house where you are more likely to find mould growing. Some common areas include bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and areas with poor ventilation.
Mould can cause a variety of health problems, including respiratory issues and allergies. It can also damage your home’s structure and belongings. If you suspect that you have mould in your home, it’s important to take action to remove it as soon as possible.
While vinegar, including malt vinegar, can be effective at removing some common household moulds, it may not be effective at killing every type of mould. If you find that vinegar doesn’t help you get rid of the mould in your house, you can try one of the other cleaners or call a professional for help.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends getting a professional cleaner if the covered area is larger than 10 square feet or roughly a 3-foot by 3-foot square. It’s also important to note that vinegar should not be mixed with bleach or hydrogen peroxide as this can create toxic chemicals that can potentially irritate the skin and eyes.
The Science Behind Vinegar’s Effectiveness Against Mould
The effectiveness of vinegar against mould is due to its acidic nature. Vinegar, including malt vinegar, typically contains between 5 and 8 percent acetic acid. Acetic acid is a moderately strong acid with a pH of around 2.5 that can disrupt the growth of a wide range of fungi and other microorganisms.
When vinegar comes into contact with mould, the acetic acid penetrates the cell walls of the mould and disrupts its growth. This makes vinegar an effective treatment for many types of mould, including black mould, on both porous and non-porous surfaces.
Moreover, vinegar is a natural and non-toxic cleaning agent that is safe for the environment. It can be used on a wide range of surfaces, including glass, tiles, and other smooth surfaces.
However, it’s important to note that vinegar may not be effective at killing every type of mould. In some cases, professional cleaning may be necessary if the covered area is larger than 10 square feet or if the mould has penetrated the heating, air conditioning, or ventilation system.
How To Use Malt Vinegar To Kill Mould
If you want to use malt vinegar to kill mould, here are the steps to follow:
1. Put on protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and a mask to avoid inhaling the vinegar fumes.
2. Pour undiluted malt vinegar into a spray bottle.
3. Spray the vinegar directly onto the mouldy surface until it is completely saturated.
4. Allow the vinegar to sit for at least an hour to give it time to penetrate the mould and kill it.
5. After an hour, use a soft-bristled brush or sponge to scrub away the mould. If the surface is rough or porous, use a thicker brush.
6. Once you’ve scrubbed away all the mould, dry the area completely with a clean rag. Be sure to dispose of the used rag and brush.
7. Repeat the process if necessary.
It’s important to note that malt vinegar has a stronger smell than white vinegar, so be sure to open windows or use a fan for ventilation while cleaning. Additionally, while malt vinegar is generally safe to use on most surfaces, it’s always a good idea to test a small area first before applying it more widely.
Safety Precautions When Using Malt Vinegar For Mould Removal
While malt vinegar can be an effective and natural cleaning solution for mould removal, it’s important to take safety precautions when using it.
Direct contact with mould can be dangerous, especially if any spores become airborne during the cleaning process. Additionally, vinegar’s acidic nature can be irritating to the skin. For safety’s sake, wear non-porous gloves, goggles or safety glasses, and a mask that covers your mouth and nose.
When using malt vinegar for mould removal, it’s important to note that it may not work on every type of mould. As mentioned earlier, vinegar made from 4- to 4.2-percent vinegar acetic acid was effective at treating Penicillium chrysogenum but not Aspergillus fumigatus. If you’re unsure about the type of mould you’re dealing with, it’s best to consult a professional.
It’s also important to avoid mixing malt vinegar with other cleaning solutions such as bleach or hydrogen peroxide. The mixture can create toxic chemicals that can potentially irritate the skin and eyes.
When using malt vinegar for mould removal, make sure to fill a spray bottle with undiluted malt vinegar and spray generously until the mould is 100% covered and wet. After spraying, let the vinegar sit for a few hours so it can penetrate the mould and kill it completely. Then, use a scrub brush or sponge to remove the mould and wipe the area down with warm water.
Other Natural Methods For Preventing And Removing Mould In Your Home
While vinegar is a popular and effective natural method for preventing and removing mould, there are other natural methods you can try as well. Here are a few:
1. Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil is a natural antifungal and antibacterial agent that can help prevent and remove mould. Mix 1 teaspoon of tea tree oil with 1 cup of water in a spray bottle and spray the affected area. Leave it on for a few hours, then wipe it clean.
2. Hydrogen Peroxide: Hydrogen peroxide is a natural disinfectant that can kill mould spores. Mix equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and water in a spray bottle and spray the affected area. Leave it on for 10 minutes, then wipe it clean.
3. Baking Soda: Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and can help absorb moisture, which can prevent mould growth. Mix 1/4 tablespoon of baking soda with 1 cup of water in a spray bottle and spray the affected area. Leave it on for a few hours, then wipe it clean.
4. Grapefruit Seed Extract: Grapefruit seed extract is a natural antifungal agent that can help prevent and remove mould. Mix 20 drops of grapefruit seed extract with 2 cups of water in a spray bottle and spray the affected area. Leave it on for a few hours, then wipe it clean.
It’s important to note that while these natural methods can be effective, they may not be as strong as chemical cleaners or professional cleaning services. If you have a large or severe mould problem, it’s best to seek professional help.
