The Best Mold Removers for the Home

Finding mold growth in a dark, damp space for the first time can be harrowing, but in many cases, all you need is some protective gear and an effective mold remover. Whether it’s under a kitchen sink, along a bathroom wall, or even on your home’s exterior, if you’re careful and diligent, you very well might be able to treat mold and mildew yourself. 

To help you tackle the job, we compiled a list of popular mold removers, focusing on ease of use, effectiveness, and safety. Our favorite is the RMR-86 Instant Mold and Mildew Stain Remover Spray, which works immediately, requires no scrubbing, and even helps eliminate odors. However, there are a surprising number of powerful mold removers on the market, so be sure to explore our entire list of the best mold removers and the buying guide that follows. 

1. BEST OVERALL: RMR Solutions RMR-86 Instant Mold Stain Remover
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2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Laticrete Stonetech Mold & Mildew Stain Remover
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3. BEST FOR SHOWER: Wet & Forget Weekly Shower Cleaner
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4. BEST FOR CARPET: RMR Solutions RMR-141 Disinfectant Spray Cleaner
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5. BEST FOR CONCRETE: 30 Seconds Outdoor Cleaner
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6. BEST FOR VINYL SIDING: Mold Armor E-Z House Wash Cleaner
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7. BEST FOR WALLS: Total Solutions Disinfecting Mildew & Mold Killer
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8. BEST FOR PRESSURE WASHERS: Simple Green Oxy Solve Total Outdoor Cleaner
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Before You Buy Mold Remover 

Mold remover products are effective for getting rid of mold​ and mildew, but many contain strong chemicals that require careful handling. Products with bleach, for example, can produce harsh fumes that may irritate the lungs and sinuses if used in tight spaces without proper ventilation. Other active ingredients, like quaternary ammonium compounds or lye, are also potent cleaners that can cause irritation if they’re inhaled or come into contact with skin or eyes. 

When comparing products, consider where you’ll be using them and what surfaces need treatment. A bleach-based cleaner may be ideal for hard, nonporous materials like tile or concrete, while hydrogen peroxide or quat-based formulas may be safer indoors or on softer materials such as carpet or fabric. Always wear gloves, goggles, and a mask when applying any chemical mold remover, and ensure the space is well ventilated.

Preventive care goes a long way, too. Avoiding common mistakes that lead to mold and mildew growth—such as overwatering your houseplants, keeping indoor humidity levels too high, or leaving wet towels on the floor—can help reduce the need for harsh chemicals.

Mold Removers Comparison

Our Top Picks

Mold removal and restoration is serious business. Each product to get rid of mold that made our list is designed to work quickly and effectively. But remember, if you’re hoping to avoid hiring a professional mold removal service, you also need to address the issue that caused the mold in the first place. If the source of moisture remains, mold can return in as little as 2 days.

RMR-86 starts working immediately and can remove mold stains in seconds—without the need for scrubbing. The bleach-based formula penetrates deeply into porous materials to dissolve stubborn mold discoloration, making it ideal for prepping surfaces before repainting or refinishing. While this mold remover spray also helps eliminate moldy, musty odors, it can irritate the lungs and skin, so it should only be used in well-ventilated areas while wearing proper protective gear.  

RMR Solution’s mold stain remover is safe to use on most surfaces, including drywall, vinyl siding, concrete, brick, and kitchen and bathroom tiles. However, its primary purpose is as a mold stain remover rather than a mold killer, meaning if mold returns after application, you’ll want to look for a product that addresses mold spore formation, such as the company’s quats-based RMR-141 formula. 

What our tester says: “I tested RMR-86 in the track of a shower door and around the drain of a bathtub/shower, both locations where mold and mildew easily accumulate. It removed both. The instructions require leaving the solution on the mold and mildew until the stains disappear. I followed those instructions but found it performed better if I did some light scrubbing afterward.”—Stacey L. Nash, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the RMR-86 mold remover at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, Walmart, or RMR Solutions.  

Laticrete’s mold-removing spray is a specialized cleaner designed for natural stone, tile, marble, granite, limestone, and grout. It effectively removes stubborn mold and mildew stains without damaging delicate materials used for kitchen and bathroom countertops, backsplashes, walls, and floors. 

With its affordable price tag, this ready-to-use remover leaves behind a bit of a light chlorine scent, though it’s less overpowering than fully bleach-based formulas. Still, Stonetech should only be used in well-ventilated areas while wearing gloves, goggles, and a mask. And while it’s designed to work instantly upon application, deep or heavily embedded mold may require some scrubbing or a repeat application. 

Get the Laticrete mold remover at Amazon.

Wet & Forget weekly mildew and mold remover has a strong following for its easy and gentle approach to keeping showers and bathroom spaces clean. The proprietary bleach-free formula is not only effective for removing mold and mildew stains—it even works on soap scum. To use, simply coat shower walls, soap dishes, glass doors, and other surfaces exposed to constant moisture once a week, let the solution sit for 8 to 12 hours, and then rinse it away. The ½-gallon jug contains enough product to keep showers mold-free for up to 12 weeks. 

Though the company doesn’t list the ingredients used in its proprietary formula, it does state the spray is bleach- and ammonia-free. And while its vanilla scent is light and pleasant, Wet & Forget is more appropriate for ongoing maintenance than as a spray for mold remediation. For those after prevention rather than clearing away thick buildup or deeply embedded stains, it offers a practical, low-effort approach. 

What our tester says: “I’ve used this product weekly on my glass shower door for several years to limit the effects of well water that leaves a waxy buildup and hard water stains. While the Wet & Forget cleaner is designed to remove all the grime, I’ve found that I need to clean the shower with a second cleaner for complete removal.”—Stacey L. Nash, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Wet & Forget mold remover at Amazon, Lowe’s, Ace Hardware, The Home Depot, or Walmart.

RMR Solutions RMR-141 RTU Disinfectant & Cleaner is a professional-grade, EPA-registered disinfectant that offers powerful mold, mildew, bacteria, and virus-killing capabilities. It effectively eliminates 99.9 percent of common household microorganisms, including SARS-CoV-2, and since it doesn’t contain bleach or ammonia, it won’t discolor carpet. As both a cleaner and a fungicide, this mold remover for carpet is appropriate for both residential and commercial settings. 

To use RMR-141, spray the stained area and a surrounding area of about 6 inches on all sides, and allow it to sit for 10 minutes or until fully dry. The quaternary ammonium-based formula will kill the mold and remove the odor, but very deep stains may remain. If that’s the case, you may need to follow up with a regular carpet-safe stain remover. 

Get the RMR-141 mold remover (various sizes) at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, or RMR Solutions. 

30 Seconds Outdoor Cleaner is a popular choice for quickly removing mold, mildew, algae, and moss from outdoor surfaces like concrete, brick, stucco, vinyl, and wood. The hose-end sprayer makes application easy—simply attach the bottle to the end of a garden hose, fully coat the intended area, wait a few minutes, and then hose it off again with plain water. There’s no need to worry about scrubbing or digging out your pressure washer.  

When used as directed, the manufacturer states that this product is safe for use around grass and plants. However, bleach is its main ingredient, so you’ll still want to wear proper protective gear and avoid letting the spray splash onto your skin or eyes. Also, many users point out that the ½-gallon bottle runs out quickly in large areas, making prevention a more economical approach than after-the-fact treatment. 

Get the 30 Seconds mold remover at Lowe’s, Tractor Supply Co., or The Home Depot.

The side of a home that receives the least sunlight may be prone to nasty molds and mildews, but Mold Armor cleaner can help eliminate those unsightly stains. Its hose-end sprayer makes it easy to apply to hard surfaces like vinyl, aluminum, wood, stucco, concrete, and brick. Simply cover the affected surface and wait for the foam to dissolve the stains, which usually takes just a few minutes. For tougher stains, you can also mix the wash in a bucket and apply it with a sponge, brush, or paint roller.

As a bleach-based formula, Mold Armor provides strong microbial action, but it also has a potent odor and requires care to avoid splashing back on you as you spray. The manufacturer says it’s safe for fabrics and plants when used as directed, though it’s probably best to avoid getting too much in places you don’t intend to.

Get the Mold Armor mold remover at Lowe’s, Ace Hardware, or The Home Depot.

Moldy walls can be a lot to handle, so a solution that works quickly and easily is ideal. Total Solutions Disinfecting Mildew & Mold Killer is a versatile, EPA-registered cleaner that combines disinfecting and mold-killing power in one product. Made with quaternary ammonium compounds, it’s effective at eliminating mold, mildew, and viruses on a variety of indoor and outdoor surfaces, including walls. 

To use, mix the concentrate from the 1-gallon jug with water, spray it on (sprayer not included), and let it dry completely or sit at least 10 minutes before wiping away. While the formula doesn’t contain any bleach, it still has a strong chemical odor and should be handled with care. For stubborn or widespread infestations, repeated applications may be needed. 

Get the Total Solutions mold remover at Amazon.

Simple Green Oxy Solve Total Outdoor Cleaner is an environmentally friendly peroxide-based cleaner designed for use with a pressure washer. It effectively removes mold, mildew, moss, algae, dirt, and grime from nearly any outdoor surface, including wood, vinyl, concrete, metal, stone, and brick. The biodegradable formula is safe for plants, lawns, and landscaping when used as directed, making it a great alternative to harsh, bleach-based cleaners.

The 1-gallon concentrate yields up to 21 gallons of cleaning solution, offering solid value for large outdoor projects. It’s easy to mix in pressure washers to create a fast-acting foam that brightens surfaces without strong odors or chemicals. While it may leave residue if not rinsed thoroughly and isn’t ideal for heavy rust stains, Simple Green Oxy Solve is a reliable, eco-conscious choice for general outdoor cleaning.

Get the Simple Green mold remover at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Walmart.  

Or, DIY Your Own Mold Remover

Making a homemade mold killer is thrifty, natural, and low-waste, and the following two approaches use ingredients that kill mold you likely already have in your house.  

The first one to try is hydrogen peroxide. Simply pour a bottle of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide into a household spray bottle, apply it to the affected surface, let it sit for 10 minutes, then scrub vigorously until the stains fade. Hydrogen peroxide is antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial, making it a good choice for removing allergenic mold from appliances, bathroom fixtures, some flooring, and even black mold on walls (surface spores only).

Another tried-and-true method is to use white vinegar. This household staple cleans, deodorizes, and disinfects while killing up to 82 percent of mold varieties. Simply pour undiluted white vinegar into a household spray bottle, apply it to the desired surface, and leave it alone for an hour before rinsing with water. Though effective, it may leave a slight vinegar smell behind.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Chose the Best Mold Removers 

We researched the most popular mold and mildew removers across multiple categories and found that the best options depend on the type of mold they address, working time, ease of application, and surface compatibility.

The most highly rated products among users are those that lift mold and mildew stains quickly, apply easily with a spray, and work across multiple surface types. To create a versatile list, we selected mold cleaner products that perform well on a range of materials, including wood, composites, vinyl, metal, fabric, plastic, stucco, concrete, stone, brick, and asphalt. 

While most are formulated primarily for mold and mildew removal, several also help clean or disinfect surfaces affected by viruses, bacteria, algae, moss, dirt, and grime. Some are concentrated formulas that require dilution, and others come ready to use with built-in spray nozzles or hose-end applicators.. 

What to Consider When Choosing a Mold Remover

If you’ve already completed a test for mold and know that’s what you’re up against, it’s time to don your rubber gloves and get to work. 

Mold Type

The type of mold you need to tackle often matters less than where it’s found, as most mold removers can handle common household varieties. However, some species are more dangerous and warrant professional mold removal.

If your mold test kit returns a result of Stachybotrys, also known as black mold, you have a more serious problem. Black mold has a mildew-like odor and slimy texture, and it’s toxic (especially to the respiratory system) and can spread quickly. Black mold removal is possible with ingredients like hydrogen peroxide, white vinegar (or a combination of vinegar and baking soda), and quaternary ammonium compounds (quats), but if the mold is spreading faster than your black mold remover can keep up with it, it might be a good idea to call in the pros.

Location 

Some molds are easier to tackle than others. If mold appears on fabrics like curtains, you might be able to simply throw them in a washing machine with a compatible mold remover. But mold growing under a kitchen cabinet is trickier—it can spread behind drywall or insulation and may require removing those materials to treat the affected area fully.

Because mold feeds on organic materials, it can cause serious damage to drywall and wood. When it grows behind a sink cabinet, for example, it can consume the drywall’s paper facing and spread through to hidden spaces. In contrast, exterior surfaces like vinyl siding may only need a bit of elbow grease: Just spray on a mold remover and scrub the area clean.

Cleaning Time

The amount of time it takes mold and mildew removers to do their job varies. Some of the best mold removers do the majority of their work on contact, others need at least 10 minutes to disinfect, and some take up to 12 hours or multiple applications.

In most cases, the solution breaks down the mold so all you have to do is wipe it away. Soapy detergents work differently—they often need agitation from a brush to loosen mold so the solution can penetrate the surface.

Application and Ease of Use 

Mold removers come in several forms, and the right one depends on the size and location of the problem. Spray bottles are ideal for small areas that don’t need multiple applications. Concentrates can be mixed to different strengths and applied with a sponge, mop, or sprayer. Outdoor formulas often attach to the end of a garden hose, creating a high-volume spray for decks, driveways, and siding.

Ease of use is key—spray solutions are typically the most convenient: point, spray, and let the product work. Hose-end options cover large exterior areas quickly, while “spray and walk away” formulas are perfect for tight spaces like under sinks or behind toilets, minimizing scrubbing.

FAQs 

If you still aren’t sure how to kill mold, that’s OK. The following frequently asked questions and their answers are here to help. 

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?

Yes and no. If you don’t stop the source of the moisture, mold will most definitely return. And if you simply bleach the surface of a material like drywall, you won’t remove the roots of the mold that are deep inside, meaning the mold may rebloom within a day or two. To keep mold from coming back, eliminate the moisture source, dry the area completely, and replace any materials that can’t be fully cleaned. This ensures all hidden roots and spores are gone for good.

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, cold-like symptoms, eye irritation, and skin irritation.

Q. What do professionals use to kill mold?

Professionals use a variety of products, including mold removal spray, bleach, hydrogen peroxide, borax, and baking soda. However, part of what makes the cost of professional mold remediation relatively high is that they also use expensive equipment like HEPA vacuums, air scrubbers, and fogging machines to remove mold spores from air and surfaces. 

Q. How can you tell if you have mold or mildew?

Mildew typically grows on wet surfaces, such as bathroom tile, while mold can grow on any surface that has been damp for an extended period, including fabrics and walls. Mildew has a powdery appearance that can be white, gray, or light brown in color. Mold, on the other hand, is fuzzy, slimy, and raised, and it comes in many colors, not just black.

Q. How do you use a mold remover?

Read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Some mold removers merely require users to spray them on the affected surface, while others need to sit for a certain amount of time and/or be scrubbed into the surface to be effective.

 

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