Can You Use Vinegar to Kill Mould?

Mould growth is very common in homes, particularly in areas like bathrooms, basements, and laundry rooms where humidity is high or plumbing can leak. Depending on the type of mould and the extent it has spread, clean-up can be simple or very involved.

Smaller areas of mould growth that are caught early, can be removed with some basic cleaning supplies. There are several biocides that will kill mould more quickly than vinegar, but distilled white vinegar or cleaning vinegar are no toxic to the environment and humans.

You know that bleach won't kill mould? It seems that once you spray bleach into a mould, it magically disappear, but unfortunately what happens is that the mould only looses it's colour and become white. That's why vinegar is a way better option of cleaning and treating mould.

It is important for the vinegar you use to have an acetic acid level of 4.0%−4.2% or higher.

The distilled white vinegar in the condiment aisle contains around five percent acetic acid and 95 percent water. Cleaning vinegar contains around six percent acetic acid. While vinegar will kill the mould, it is slow acting and the discolouration and stains from the mould may remain and require additional scrubbing.

How Often to Clean Away Mould With Vinegar ?

When even a small colony of mould is discovered, the area should be cleaned immediately. Small colonies can become into large colonies in just a few days. Any area with high humidity or with the possibility of leaks should be cleaned and checked at least weekly for signs of mould, take an extra attention to your shower walls. Keeping surfaces clean helps eliminate the food (body soil, crumbs, moisture) that mould needs to thrive.

Tip

Vinegar is also useful for treating mould and mildew on clothes and accessories. Take the items outside to brush away as much surface mould as possible. This prevents the mould spores from spreading inside your home. If the item is washable, use the hottest water recommended on the care label and add one cup of vinegar to the washer load.