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Almost all homes will have some mold spores.
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These spores need little more than a food source and moisture to grow on various surfaces in your home.
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The key is to remove mold before it spreads and becomes a bigger problem.
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Left unchecked, it can rot wood surfaces and cause indoor pollutants that can lead to health issues.
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Before you get rid of the mold, you'll need to eliminate any moisture issues at the source.
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Indoors, repair any plumbing leaks and install exhaust fans in bathrooms, the kitchen and laundry room.
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Be sure your gutters and downspouts are clear and that water is properly draining away from your home's foundation.
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Running a dehumidifier to reduce the overall moisture level in your home can also keep mold from growing.
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Before getting rid of mold buildup, always wear protective clothing, rubber gloves, a mask and goggles.
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Mold gives off microscopic spores that can come in contact with your eyes, skin and be inhaled.
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Hard surfaces such as tile, window sills, and cabinets can be cleaned with detergent then dried completely with a rag.
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There are detergents specially formulated with mold-killing ingredients that can help speed the job.
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Just follow the manufacturer's instructions for the proper application.
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When done, dispose of the rags in a sealed garbage bag, and immediately wash your clothes in a separate laundry load.
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For more porous surfaces, like drywall, use a rag so you don't damage the surface with more abrasive cleaners.
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You can also create an effective mold-killing solution with some common household items.
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Undiluted white vinegar can be sprayed onto hard surfaces in kitchens and baths.
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A bleach solution is also an option.
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Dilute the bleach with water as directed by the manufacturer.
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Ammonia also works.
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Mix a 50/50 solution and spray on the surface.
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Wait 2 to 3 hours and rinse.
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However, never mix ammonia with bleach or other cleaning products.
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This will create toxic and dangerous fumes.
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On exterior surfaces, you can apply a 1:10 solution of bleach and water to the surface.
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Allow 10 to 20 minutes and rinse with a garden hose.
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Another option is to mix a TSP solution according to the product's instructions and scrub the area with a stiff bristled brush and rinse.
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If you have a large exterior mold area, use a pressure washer to speed the job.
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For more detailed information about this and many other projects, check out the DIY projects and ideas section of homedepot.com, or talk to one of our store associates.