Have you spotted dark spots and caught a musty smell around your walls, floors, or ceiling? Black mould can be a real hassle, so it’s tempting to grab some bleach and a sponge to wipe it away once and for all. Unfortunately, mould can be stubborn, and getting rid of it isn’t always as easy as it seems.

At Prokil, we’ve helped thousands of people tackle black mould over the years, so we know a thing or two about what works best. Below, we’ll walk you through how effective wiping away mould can be and explore other solutions that might help.

What is black mould?

Black mould is a common type of fungus that thrives in damp, warm spots like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. You’ll recognise it by its black or green colour, slimy texture, and musty smell.

Being around black mould can lead to a range of health issues, including breathing problems, headaches, fatigue, and skin irritation. Getting rid of it is essential for keeping your home clean and protecting your family’s health.

Does wiping black mould get rid of it?

Unfortunately, wiping alone isn’t enough. Like painting over it, wiping might clear the visible mould on the surface, but the spores and root-like structures often stick around. This means it can quickly regrow if the damp, warm conditions remain.

To banish black mould for good, you need to combine cleaning with solving the root issue – usually excess moisture.

How to remove black mould for good

The best approach for removing black mould depends on how much mould there is. Read on to find the right solution for your situation and to learn the steps involved!

DIY solution

This method works best for small patches of mould that are just starting to appear. If you’re dealing with a larger area or have already tried these steps without success, move on to the next section.

1. Gather rubber gloves, a scrub brush or sponge, a bucket of warm water, and a cleaning solution. You can use a mix of one part bleach to ten parts water, undiluted white vinegar, or a specialised mould cleaner in a spray bottle.
2. Make sure there’s good ventilation to avoid inhaling mould spores and any cleaning fumes. Move or cover anything near the area you’ll be cleaning to keep it safe.
3. Spray your chosen solution directly onto the mouldy area, making sure it’s fully soaked. Let it sit for 15 – 30 minutes so it can work its magic and thoroughly kill the mould.
4. Use a scrub brush or sponge to lift the mould off the surface. For stubborn spots, try spraying the solution again and giving it another scrub.
5. Wipe down the area with clean water and a fresh cloth, then pat dry to make sure no moisture is left behind. Keeping it dry helps prevent any future mould from popping up.

Professional solution

If your home has a large mould problem (over 10 square feet) or if mould has gotten into porous materials like insulation, the steps above may not be enough to completely get rid of it. In these cases, your best option is to hire a professional. They’ll be able to assess the full extent of the mould and use specialised solutions to tackle larger infestations effectively, giving you greater peace of mind that your home and health is protected.

Tackle the root cause of the mould

Removing mould is a great first step, but preventing it from coming back will save you the hassle of dealing with it again. Here’s how to keep your space mould-free:

• Black mould thrives in humidity, so try to keep indoor humidity levels below 60% by using a dehumidifier or adding a passive ventilation system.
• Keep rooms that get damp, like bathrooms and kitchens, well-ventilated. Turn on exhaust fans and open windows whenever possible.
• Check if your home’s damp proof course is in good condition – if it’s not working, it may need replacing to keep water out.
• Inspect for leaks around pipes, roofs, and windows. Even small leaks can invite mould to settle in.
• Regular cleaning, particularly in damp areas, can stop mould from taking hold. A quick wipe now and then can prevent bigger problems down the road.
• When you’re renovating, think about using mould-resistant paint or materials in moisture-prone areas. Some paints even come with mould inhibitors to help keep regrowth at bay.

If you’re unsure about what’s causing the moisture or need extra help, reaching out to a professional is a good idea. They can assess your home and suggest the right solutions, like fresh damp proofing or a new ventilation setup.

Banish mould with Prokil’s expert mould treatments

Struggling to get rid of black mould on your own, or just want the peace of mind that comes from expert help? Prokil is here to help!

With over 50 years of experience, we’re the South’s trusted specialists in damp, mould, and rot treatment. We have the right tools and know-how to make your home mould-free for good, no matter how bad the infestation. Our treatments – from deep cleaning to damp proofing and ventilation – are made to last, giving you peace of mind that mould won’t be coming back anytime soon. You can rest easy knowing your home will stay dry, healthy, and safe for you and your loved ones for years to come.

Want to get started? Book a survey online or call us on 0800 048 9488 today!