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Finding mold spores or growth in a dark, damp space for the first time can be harrowing, especially if you already know now how harmful mold can be to health and how much mold remediation could cost. But, don’t panic. Most people may be able to remove the fungus on their own.
In most cases, all that is needed is some protective gear and the best mold remover for the affected surface. Whether it’s under a kitchen sink, along a bathroom wall, or even on a home’s exterior, users who are careful and diligent might be able to tackle the job themselves.
- BEST OVERALL: RMR-86 Instant Mold and Mildew Stain Remover Spray
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: DuPont Mold & Mildew Stain Remover
- BEST FOR WOOD: Concrobium Mold Control Household Cleaner
- BEST FOR SHOWER: Wet & Forget Shower Cleaner
- BEST FOR CONCRETE: 30 Seconds Outdoor Cleaner
- BEST FOR VINYL SIDING: Mold Armor E-Z House Wash Cleaner
- BEST FOR CARPET: RMR-141 Disinfectant Spray Cleaner
- BEST FOR WALLS: Total Solutions Lemocide Mildew, Virus & Mold Killer
- BEST FOR OUTDOOR: Simple Green Oxy Solve Total Outdoor Cleaner
Before You Buy Mold Remover
Though mold-removing products are tried-and-true methods for getting rid of spores and mildew, many of them have chemicals that some users may not desire. Particularly, products with heavy-duty bleach can leave harsh aerosols behind that can potentially harm the lungs and sinuses. Some other chemicals that are included in mold removers can cause harm to users if breathed in, swallowed, or exposed to the eyes.
One way to ensure these chemically enhanced products are not needed is to frequently clean areas that are exposed to moisture since this is where mold and mildew love to grow.
How We Chose the Best Mold Removers
We researched the most sought-after mold and mildew removers in their respective categories and discovered that the best options are often determined by what kind of mold they treat, cleaning time, ease of application, compatibility with multiple surfaces, and other special features included by select brands.
While searching for the best mold killers, the ones that are capable of treating mold spores and mildew, have spray applications, and clean surfaces instantly were the most popular among users. To ensure our list provided versatile options, we chose mold removers that work on wood, composites, vinyl, metal, fabrics, plastic, stucco, wicker, concrete, stone, brick, and asphalt.
Even though many are considered to be mold and mildew removers, some are also meant for use on viruses, bacteria, algae, dirt, moss, and grime. Select options require dilution before use or do not come with spray bottles, and many options have built-in spray nozzles or can be connected to garden hoses for easy application.
Our Top Picks
Below is a list of some of the best mold removers that you can employ in or on your home to kill fungus and get back to a happier, healthier home.
However, none of these mold killers will work for long if you don’t address the problem that brought on the mold. Even if the affected material is removed, mold can grow back in as little as 2 days if the moisture source is still present.
Best Overall
RMR-86 Instant Mold and Mildew Stain Remover Spray
RMR-86 starts working immediately and can remove mold stains in seconds. Simply cover the affected area with spray and let it sit. No scrubbing required. This spray can also help take care of the damp, moldy smell so a space will smell fresher again.
RMR-86 mold stain remover is safe to use on most surfaces, including drywall, vinyl siding, concrete, brick, and kitchen and bathroom tiles. This product is available in a 32-ounce spray bottle, a 1-gallon jug, or a 2.5-gallon jug.
Product Specs
- Compatible mold type(s): Black mold and mildew
- Cleaning time: Instant
- Application type: Spray
Pros
- Starts working immediately to remove mold stains in seconds
- No scrubbing required; simply apply and wash off for clean results
- Helps eliminate odors caused by mold and mildew
- Safe to use on drywall, vinyl siding, concrete, brick, and kitchen and bathroom tiles
Cons
- Spray-bottle option comes with limited quantity; may need more than one unit for large-scale mold infestations
- Not FDA approved; may not be ideal for some users’ preferences
Get the RMR-86 mold remover at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.
Best Bang for the Buck
DuPont Mold u0026 Mildew Stain Remover
Gentle isn’t a word you would associate with a mold or mildew remover, but the DuPont stain remover is effective at removing mold and mildew on countertops, bathroom tiles, backsplashes, floors, stone, glass, porcelain, walls, and much more.
With its affordable price tag, this ready-to-use remover leaves behind a pleasing scent while removing mold and mildew stains. The only downsides are that this product should not be used in a poorly ventilated room and you’ll need to scrub a little for the full effect.
Product Specs
- Compatible mold type(s): Mold and mildew
- Cleaning time: Instant
- Application type: Spray
Pros
- Designed for use on natural stone like marble, granite, limestone, ceramic
- Safe to use on many surfaces: countertops, bathroom tiles, backsplashes, floors, and more
- Leaves behind a fresh, natural scent that can be pleasing to many
Cons
- Should be used in a well-ventilated area; while it does not contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), fumes can be harmful or overwhelming
- May require scrubbing to work effectively; scrubbing products may need to be purchased separately
Get the DuPont mold and mildew remover at Amazon.
Best for Wood
Concrobium Mold Control Household Cleaner
Wood is porous and can make an excellent breeding ground for some types of molds. Concrobium Mold Control cleaner can handle wood mold problems in as little as one application. It crushes and suffocates the mold and prevents it from coming back. And it does the job without ammonia or VOCs.
We recommend wearing a mask when using this mold and mildew remover, even if the fumes don’t seem as strong as other products. Just fill a spray bottle from the 1-gallon jug and spray a thin, even layer on the moldy wood. Then let the product work its way into the surface. Once it dries completely, you can either reapply or wipe it clean. For challenging stains, a light sanding may be in order.
Product Specs
- Compatible mold type(s): Mold, mildew, and musty odors
- Cleaning time: Instant
- Application type: Spray
Pros
- Works in as little as 1 application; simply apply, wait, and wash off
- No ammonia or VOCs; suitable for those who prefer low-chemical formulas
- Ample quantity provided for small-to-large cleaning applications
Cons
- Spray jug not included; may need to be purchased separately
- May require multiple applications to work effectively
Get the Concrobium mold remover at Amazon, Ace Hardware, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.
Best for Shower
Wet u0026 Forget Shower Cleaner
Not all household mold issues involve basements and drywall. Mold can grow in a shower, too. Wet & Forget shower cleaner kills bathroom mold and mildew and keeps it from coming back.
Coat the shower in Wet & Forget mold and mildew removeronce a week and let it handle mold on the shower walls, soap dishes, glass doors, and other surfaces that see constant moisture. The ½-gallon jug is enough to keep a bathroom mold-free for up to 12 weeks. To use Wet & Forget, spray the surfaces and allow them to dry before rinsing the entire shower clean the next day.
Product Specs
- Compatible mold type(s): Mold and mildew
- Cleaning time: 8 to 12 hours
- Application type: Spray
Pros
- Suitable for use in showers; protects surfaces from mold for more than 12 weeks
- Spray nozzle included for easy application; long spray tube allows for extended reach
- Ample quantity can take on large cleaning jobs and surface areas
Cons
- Requires rinsing after use; may take some elbow grease in larger spaces
- Should not be left on for more than 24 hours to prevent damage
Get the Wet & Forget mold remover at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.
Best for Concrete
30 Seconds Outdoor Cleaner
Spray bottles and long concrete driveways don’t mix well. That’s why a driveway mold situation requires a hose-end sprayer like the Outdoor Cleaner from 30 Seconds to make the job faster. To use, attach the bottle to the end of a garden hose and spray the entire driveway or patio. Then, just wait a few minutes before hosing it off again with plain water. There’s no need to scrub or to use a pressure washer machine.
Use 30 Seconds cleaner on concrete walks and driveways, fences, outdoor furniture, and siding. When used as directed, the manufacturer says this product is safe to use around grass or plants.
Product Specs
- Compatible mold type(s): Algae, mold, mildew, and moss
- Cleaning time: Instant
- Application type: Hose
Pros
- Easily attaches to a garden hose for outdoor mold; attachment built into the bottle
- No scrubbing or pressure washers needed during the cleaning process
- Suitable for use on driveways, walks, fences, furniture, and siding
- Can be used around grass or plants without causing damage
Cons
- Some users may find this option heavy while using; may take some elbow grease
Get the 30 Seconds mold remover at The Home Depot (2-pack) or Tractor Supply Co.
Best for Vinyl Siding
MOLD ARMOR CLEANER
The side of a home that gets the least sunlight may be prone to nasty molds and mildews. Mold Armor cleaner takes care of those ugly stains. This 64-ounce jug works on vinyl, aluminum, wood siding, brick, stucco, concrete, decks, and fences. Just cover the affected surface and wait for the foam to lift and remove stains! For tougher stains, you can mix the wash in a bucket and apply it with a sponge, brush, or paint roller.
Product Specs
- Compatible mold type(s): Mold and mildew
- Cleaning time: A few minutes
- Application type: Hose
Pros
- Comes in a large 64-ounce container for large-scale applications
- Suitable for treating stains as well as mold and mildew
- Can be used on vinyl, aluminum, wood siding, brick, stucco, concrete, decks, and fences
Cons
- Some stains may require scrubbing to be completely removed
Get the Mold Armor mold remover at Ace Hardwareor The Home Depot.
Best for Carpet
RMR-141 Disinfectant Spray Cleaner
Mold can be a challenge to kill and remove from carpet. RMR-141 disinfectant spray cleaner is a great solution for these challenging molds. It gets the job done without bleach or ammonia, so it won’t discolor a carpet. This product kills viruses and bacteria, too.
Spray the stained area and about 6 inches around it on all sides and allow it to dry. It will kill the mold and remove the odor, though the stain may remain. If that’s the case, users may need to use a regular carpet-safe stain remover.
Product Specs
- Compatible mold type(s): Mold, bacteria, odors, and viruses
- Cleaning time: Instant
- Application type: Spray
Pros
- Cleans surfaces while it disinfects; perfect for use on carpeted areas
- No bleach or ammonia makes this product suitable for those who prefer fewer chemicals
- EPA-registered product for reliability; kills 99 percent of bacteria and viruses
Cons
- May require additional products for tough stain removal
- Not FDA approved; may not be ideal for some users’ preferences
Get the RMR-141 mold remover at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.
Best for Walls
Professional Disinfecting Mildew, Virus u0026 Mold Killer
Moldy walls can be a lot to handle. A solution that will take care of it quickly and easily is ideal, and Total Solutions Lemocide mildew, virus, and mold killer is just that product. This commercial-grade mold killer cleans and disinfects hard surfaces, including walls.
Mix the cleaner from the 1-gallon jug of concentrate with water to create a sprayable solution. To use, simply spray it on and let it dry. In most cases, this mildew, virus, and mold killer is powerful enough to eliminate mold without any scrubbing.
Product Specs
- Compatible mold type(s): Mold, mildew, and viruses
- Cleaning time: Instant
- Application type: Spray
Pros
- Commercial-grade strength for heavy-duty cleaning jobs
- A gallon of concentrate is ideal for large-scale cleaning
- No scrubbing required; simply apply the formula and allow surface to dry
Cons
- Requires dilution before use and a spray bottle is not included
Get the Total Solutions mold remover at Amazon.
Best for Outdoor
Simple Green Oxy Solve Total Outdoor Cleaner
Simple Green’s Oxy Solve Total outdoor cleaner removes stubborn molds with the help of a pressure washer. This product uses peroxide to kill mold and lift stains. It works on wood, composites, vinyl, metal, fabrics, plastic, wicker, concrete, stone, brick, and asphalt. It can tackle just about any outdoor job thrown at it.
Since it’s 100 percent biodegradable, it’s safe on a boat or dock and near a lawn and garden. This 1-gallon concentrate can last through numerous outdoor cleaning projects.
Product Specs
- Compatible mold type(s):Dirt, grime, stains, mold, mildew, moss, and algae
- Cleaning time: Instant
- Application type: Pressure washer
Pros
- Suitable for heavy-duty cleaning; works on wood, composites, vinyl, metal, fabrics, plastic, wicker, concrete, stone, brick, and asphalt
- 100 percent biodegradable formula is safe to use around children, pets, and wildlife
- Ample quantity provided for multiple cleaning jobs or large cleaning tasks
Cons
- Not FDA approved; may not be ideal for some users’ preferences
- Runoff from product may discolor driveway sealers temporarily
Get the Simple Green mold remover at Amazon.
Or, DIY Your Own Mold Remover
Making a homemade version is thrifty, (can be) natural, and low waste. Not to mention, it’s very Bob Vila! This section covers how to make comparable mold-removal products at home with household materials.
One way to kill mold and mildew is by pouring a bottle of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide into a household spray bottle, spraying the desired surface, leaving it on for 10 minutes, then scrubbing vigorously until the stains fade. Hydrogen peroxide is antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial, making it effective for allergenic mold removal on appliances, bathroom fixtures, some flooring types, and even wall surfaces.
Another tried-and-true method is to use white vinegar. This substance is effective at deodorizing, cleaning, and disinfecting while killing 82 percent of mold varieties. Simply pour undiluted white vinegar into a household spray bottle, spray on the desired surface, and leave for 1 hour. Then, rinse with water. Though this solution is effective, it may leave a slight vinegar smell behind after cleaning.
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing a Mold Remover
Before donning rubber gloves and spraying down a gross, moldy surface, keep in mind that the best mold remover and the best technique depends on the type of material that’s being treated for mold growth.
Location of Mold
Some molds are easier to tackle than others. If mold growth ends up on fabrics like curtains, for example, users can usually throw them in a washing machine with the proper mold remover. But, if the mold is under a kitchen cabinet, the job can be more difficult to remedy.
Mold grows on and eats away at organic surfaces. If it has access to drywall, like behind a sink cabinet, it can feed on the paper face and do a lot of damage. It could even require more time or labor such as removing the cabinets, drywall, and insulation and treating the mold in the cavity behind it.
In other cases, like on a home’s siding, some old-fashioned elbow grease might be all that is needed. Users can simply spray the siding with a mold remover and brush it clean.
Mold Type
It doesn’t always matter what kind of mold users have in their home. Most mold removers are effective at removing any of the common types. But, some molds are more dangerous than others and could require professional intervention.
Black mold removal in particular can be a serious problem. Stachybotrys, its official name, is a toxic mold that is especially harmful to the respiratory system. It typically requires a consistent moisture source to grow. From there, it can spread quickly. Users may recognize it by its mildewlike odor or its slimy texture. If users are dealing with black mold, it might be a good idea to call in the pros.
Cleaning Time
The amount of time it takes the best mold and mildew removers to do their job can vary from one product to the next. With some, users apply the treatment once and leave it. Others require reapplication after 15 minutes. Either way, once applied, the mold killer goes to work killing the fungus before scrubbing it or wiping it away.
In the case of a soapy detergent, users might not let the solution sit at all before getting down to business. These detergents require brushing to loosen the mold and allow the mold killer to soak into the surface.
Application
There are a few ways to apply a mold killer. Choosing the right method for a particular mold problem can make all the difference. Some products come in spray bottles. They’re great for smaller mold invasions that don’t require multiple applications or treatments.
Other mold killers come in concentrates that are mixed in a separate container. This allows you to adjust the strength between applications. You can apply these with a brush, a sponge, or a mop. Or, pour the solution into a spray bottle.
Other products, meant for outdoor use, attach to the end of a garden hose. These mold killers mix with the water stream to produce a high-volume spray to hit surfaces such as driveways, decks, or siding.
Ease of Use
Mold’s a nasty substance, and remediation can be challenging. But, you can at least choose a product that’s easy to use. Typically, the easiest-to-use products are spray solutions. Simply point the bottle at the problem and shoot.
If you’re treating the exterior of a house, it’s a lot easier to use a hose attachment that pumps the solution through a hose’s stream. You can cover a larger area in less time than you would with a spray bottle.
A particular mold problem might be best suited to the products that you can spray and walk away from. This can be a huge advantage in tight areas like sink cabinets or behind toilets.
FAQs
If you still have questions about the best mold removers, that’s OK. There’s a lot to know. The following are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions. If you don’t find your answer here, contact the manufacturer.
Q. What does mold smell like?
Many molds are odorless. Black mold, on the other hand, has a damp, earthy, mildewlike smell, similar to soil.
Q. What does black mold look like?
Black mold has a spotty appearance and is usually greenish-black in color, though it can often look brown or gray.
Q. Does mold come back after cleaning?
If you don’t stop the source of the moisture, mold will most definitely return. Also, if you simply bleach the surface of a material like drywall, you won’t remove the roots of the mold that are deep inside. The mold may rebloom within a day or two.
Q. What are the effects of mold?
Mold has a variety of effects on your home and your health. It can turn surfaces like wood and drywall into dust. It can also cause respiratory problems, coldlike symptoms, eye irritation, and skin irritation.
Why Trust Bob Vila
Bob Vila has been America’s Handyman since 1979. As the host of beloved and groundbreaking TV series including “This Old House” and “Bob Vila’s Home Again,” he popularized and became synonymous with “do-it-yourself” home improvement.
Over the course of his decades-long career, Bob Vila has helped millions of people build, renovate, repair, and live better each day—a tradition that continues today with expert yet accessible home advice. The Bob Vila team distills need-to-know information into project tutorials, maintenance guides, tool 101s, and more. These home and garden experts then thoroughly research, vet, and recommend products that support homeowners, renters, DIYers, and professionals in their to-do lists.