Mold and mildew can be killed using a variety of household products. Here are some effective ways to get rid of mold and mildew:

• White vinegar: Use undiluted white vinegar on hard surfaces in kitchens and baths. Vinegar is a mild acid that kills 82% of mold species. Cleaning vinegar, which contains 6% acetic acid, is the best type for killing mold. White vinegar containing 5% acidity will also work just fine. Apply vinegar to the moldy surface using a spray bottle, let it sit for 1 hour, and then scrub off the mold.

• Bleach: A bleach solution also works to kill mold. Bleach is a potent biocide that can be used to kill mold. The active ingredient in bleach, sodium hypochlorite, reacts with water to form hypochlorous acid, which kills mold by denaturing proteins, inactivating enzymes, disrupting nucleic acids, and destroying other cellular components. Mix one cup of bleach in a gallon of water, apply to the surface and don’t rinse.

• Hydrogen peroxide: Natural cleaning products with hydrogen peroxide are quite effective at killing mold. Hydrogen peroxide kills mold effectively on materials such as clothing, floors, bathroom fixtures, walls, and items such as kitchen appliances. Pour 3% concentration hydrogen peroxide into a spray bottle, spray the moldy surface completely to saturate the area with hydrogen peroxide, leave the surface to sit for 10 minutes, and then scrub the area to make sure to remove the mold.

• Rubbing alcohol: Wetting a cloth with rubbing alcohol and giving the moldy surface a good scrub can also be effective.

• Ammonia: Mix a 50/50 solution of ammonia and water, spray on the surface, wait two to three hours, then rinse.

Its important to note that while these products can be effective in killing mold, they are only efficient when you recognize the first signs of mold growth and manage to prevent its development. In addition to eliminating the mold you see, you must also eliminate the source of the moisture that allowed its appearance in the first place.