How to Clean Mold Off of Particle Board

If any of your home's particle board has fallen victim to the formation of mold, you may be wondering how to get rid of it. If so, it may interest you to learn that cleaning mold off of particle board can be an easy task that anyone can complete in a timely fashion.

Step 1 - Protect Yourself

Before beginning the mold removal process, you must first take a few precautionary measures. First off, don a breathing mask to help shield you from any mold spores, as well as the potent fumes emitted by the bleach you'll be using. After putting on a pair of rubber gloves and some protective goggles, you'll be ready to begin cleaning.

Step 2 - Wipe Down Your Particle Board

Now that you've gathered all your protective gear, use a dampened sponge or washcloth to give your particle board a preparatory wiping. This will help get rid of less severe mold deposits, resulting in less cleaning in the long run.

Step 3 - Mix Your Cleaning Solution

Having given your board a preliminary wiping, you're ready to mix your cleaning solution. Combine one gallon of water with one cup of bleach in a clean bucket.

Step 4 - Apply Your Cleaning Solution

Now that your cleaning solution has been mixed, dampen a sponge, washcloth, or scrub brush in the mixture and proceed to vigorously scrub your mold-laden particle board. Alternatively, you can pour some of the cleaning solution into an empty spray bottle, spray it onto any mold-infested areas, then wipe away the mold deposits.

When performing this step, make sure the area in which you are working is properly ventilated to protect yourself from the potentially harmful fumes involved with this job. This can be accomplished by opening any nearby doors or windows. If at any point you feel yourself becoming overwhelmed by the fumes, take a break, preferably one that involves getting fresh air. It's important to take periodic breaks, even if you're wearing a breathing mask.

Step 5 - Apply Your Finishing Touches

Once all the mold deposits have been purged, use a dry cloth to thoroughly dry the freshly cleaned board. Additionally, you can speed up the drying process with the aid of an electric fan. Particle board is extremely susceptible to moisture, which is among the leading causes of mold formation, so when performing this step, make a point of being as thorough as possible.

After the board is completely dry, spray it with a commercial stain blocker. Given how prone particle board is to moisture buildup, this simple precaution will go a long way in preventing future mold infestation.