Finding mold under your sink can be unexpected and unpleasant news, but luckily, you can remove it yourself. Black mold under the sink is unattractive and can be a health hazard. The area under your sink is a notorious breeding ground for mold. With its dark, damp environment and potential for water leaks, it’s no wonder that unsightly mold often takes up residence in this tucked-away space.
While mold growth can be concerning, tackling it under your sink doesn’t have to be a daunting task. If you find mold under your sink, you should start fighting it immediately to keep your home clean and safe. Leaving mold untreated can allow it to grow and spread.
Identifying The Mold
To address the mold problem, you must first determine what kind of mold you are dealing with. Although most molds in the home are not toxic, certain strains can be harmful and pose significant health risks, especially for immunocompromised individuals or those with respiratory problems. If you are concerned about black mold or the type of mold, it is advisable to seek help from an expert mold remediation company.
Items You Need For Cleaning Mold
Before you start, gather everything you need for this job. Here are some recommended items for cleaning mold:
- Respirator
- Eye protection, glasses (recommended)
- Rubber gloves
- Oxygen bleach or cleaning solution
- Water
- Sprayer
- A stiff brush
How To Remove Mold Under the Sink
A Hidden Hazard Black mold thrives in damp, dark environments, making the area beneath sink cabinets a prime location. Mold can appear anywhere in your home, but you often find it under sinks where leaks and humidity are common. Here’s how to remove mold and keep it from coming back.
1. Address the Root Cause
Even the cleanest homes can harbor mold under the sink. To effectively eliminate it, start by identifying and fixing the source of moisture. Any cleanup effort will only provide a temporary solution without solving the underlying issue. Here are common causes of moisture under the sink:
- Pinhole leaks in sink drain pipes
- Worn washers on shut-off valves
- Leaky plumbing behind cabinet walls
- Faulty garbage disposal housings or connections
- Old or deteriorating dishwasher water lines
Once you’ve pinpointed the cause, determine if it’s a repair you can handle yourself. If it’s beyond your expertise, call a licensed plumber to ensure the issue is resolved properly. Only then should you move on to mold removal.
2. Select Your Mold-Fighting Tools
Several cleaning solutions are available for removing black mold. Choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences, whether a commercial product or a natural remedy.
- Hydrogen Peroxide: A 3% solution is an affordable and effective spray. Avoid contact with fabrics or carpets, which may cause discoloration.
- White Vinegar: Apply it full strength or dilute it with equal parts warm water for cleaning. Spray white vinegar onto affected areas after cleaning as a preventative measure.
- Baking Soda: Dissolve a teaspoon of baking soda in a cup of water to create a safe, non-toxic cleaner. Combine with white vinegar for added cleaning power.
Avoid using bleach unless the surface is completely non-porous. Bleach cannot penetrate porous materials like wallboard, making it ineffective for mold removal in areas beneath sinks.
3. Know Your Limits
While many mold removal tasks are manageable for homeowners, some require professional intervention to protect your health. Consider hiring certified mold remediation specialists if:
- Mold covers a large area (more than 10 square feet).
- The mold source is inaccessible or involves structural damage.
- You or someone in your household has health concerns, such as allergies or respiratory issues.
Preventing Mold In The Future
After removing the mold under your kitchen sink, make sure that you first find out the cause of the mold and eliminate the problem. Moisture under the kitchen sink usually occurs when you have a plumbing leak, so fix the leak to prevent future problems. In some cases, consider replacing the kitchen sink.
You can also purchase a mold inhibitor solution, an additive that can be added to paint or other solutions. Apply a little mold inhibitor under the sink in areas where mold might grow. To reduce mold growth in your home, keep the humidity below 40%.
How To Remove Unpleasant Smell From Sink
If there is no mold damage, and the sink still emits an unpleasant smell, we recommend turning to “grandmother’s” methods:
- Pour 1 cup of salt into a plum, pour 300 ml of boiling water, leave for 3 hours, then turn on hot water and wait 5 minutes;
- Mix salt and soda in equal proportions, pour into a drain, pour boiling water after half an hour;
- Pour one bag of citric acid into the drain and pour 100 ml of hot water.
Verdict
Mold under your sink may sound too big to handle, but with the proper approach and careful execution, it can be tackled successfully. Adhering to these steps can stop the proliferation of mold, address the causative elements, and keep the space under your sink clean and healthy for years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Vinegar or Bleach Better for Killing Mold?
When choosing between vinegar and bleach for mold, consider the surface type. Vinegar is a natural remedy for porous surfaces, while bleach suits non-porous surfaces. For prevention tips, guarantee proper ventilation and address moisture issues promptly.
How to Get Rid of Moisture Under a Sink?
You can tackle moisture under your sink using a dehumidifier solution, applying silicone sealant to leaks, and installing waterproof liners. These steps will help maintain a dry environment and prevent future moisture problems.
How Do I Stop Black Mold in My Sink Drain?
Stop black mold in your sink drain, maintain proper ventilation, regularly clean the area, and check for leaks. Prevent reoccurrence by fixing any plumbing issues immediately and maintaining a dry environment to discourage mold growth.