Does Vinegar Kill Mold? (DIY Spray Instructions)

Vinegar kills mold, but it takes about an hour to do its thing. Mold, mildew, or fungal spores colonize quickly with high humidity or when plumbing leaks. Vinegar is an excellent choice since it is effective, inexpensive, and less toxic to the environment and humans than other methods. Mold or mildew may not bother everyone, but some people with asthma or allergies are sensitive to its presence.¹

Mold vs. Mildew

Mildew refers to specific types of fungus, including some types of mold. The term “mildew” is often used generically to refer to mold that usually has flat growth. Both are fungi that need to be removed and can be used interchangeably in this case.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, if the mold patch is smaller than 10 square feet, you can attempt to remove it.² Vinegar must have an acetic acid level of 4.0%−4.2% or higher to kill mold or mildew.³ Distilled white vinegar in the condiment aisle contains around 5% acetic acid and 95% water. Cleaning vinegar contains about 6% acetic acid. While vinegar will kill the mold, it is slow-acting, and the discoloration and stains from the mold may remain and require additional scrubbing with another household cleaner.

WARNING

Never mix bleach and vinegar when cleaning. Combined, bleach and vinegar form a potentially lethal chlorine gas with a pungent smell. Immediately leave the area, go outside, and breathe fresh air.

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Surfaces Not Safe to Clean With Vinegar

Vinegar is effective on most mold and surfaces, but not all surfaces. Do not use vinegar to clean the following surfaces:

• Stone: Marble, granite, and limestone countertops and floors have sealants that get worn away with the acid in vinegar; the acid in vinegar can dissolve calcium carbonate in some stone surfaces, leaving marks on the surface.
• Wood: Wooden flooring manufacturers warn that vinegar can harm the protective polyurethane finish.
• Electronic screens: Never use vinegar on touch screens; it can damage the screen’s anti-glare filter and touch responsiveness.
• Some metals: Refrain from using vinegar to clean aluminum, copper, and stainless steel.
• Porous surfaces: Vinegar is not the most effective mold remover for porous or absorbent surfaces, such as ceiling tiles or carpets. It can be used for clothing but usually requires several washings and the sun’s sanitizing power to remove mold or mildew from the fabric.

What You’ll Need

Equipment / Tools

• Rubber gloves
• N-95 mask
• Eye protection
• Bucket
• Nylon-bristled scrub brush
• Sponge
• Spray bottle

Materials

• Distilled white vinegar
• Cleaning vinegar
• Powdered oxygen bleach

Instructions

How to Clean Using Vinegar

Distilled white and cleaning vinegar are particularly effective, non-toxic products for cleaning mold from refrigerator interiors, gaskets, other kitchen appliances, and bathrooms.

1. Wear Protective GearSince many molds can cause allergic⁴ or toxic⁵ reactions, protective eye gear, an N-95 mask, and rubber gloves should be worn while cleaning moldy surfaces. It’s a good idea to wear old clothing that can be tossed in the washer so that mold spores will not be transported to other home areas.
2. Ventilate the AreaOpen doors and windows and turn on bathroom or kitchen exhaust fans to help ventilate the area before you begin cleaning.
3. Apply the VinegarPour undiluted vinegar into a spray bottle and label it. Spray the moldy surface. Allow the vinegar to remain on the surface for at least one hour before moving to the next steps.
4. Rinse the SurfaceDip a sponge in clean water and wipe down the surface. Rinse the sponge frequently. Start at the top for vertical surfaces and work downward to catch drips.For porous surfaces, wring the sponge so it is damp to prevent oversaturating the finish.
5. Inspect for DiscolorationIf the mold has left grout or other finishes discolored, use oxygen-based bleach to remove the stains. Oxygen bleach will not kill mold spores but is very effective for removing stains.
6. Remove Discoloration With Oxygen BleachMix one-half cup of powdered oxygen bleach in a bucket containing two quarts of warm water. Stir well to dissolve the powder. Apply the solution to the discolored areas with a sponge or nylon-bristled scrub brush (a brush is best for grout). Allow it to work for at least 30 minutes, then rinse with clean water.
7. Dry the SurfaceAllow the freshly cleaned surfaces to air-dry.

How Often to Clean Mold With Vinegar

When you discover a small mold colony, immediately clean the area. Small colonies can explode into large colonies in just a few days. Any area with high humidity or possibly leaks should be cleaned and checked at least weekly for signs of mold. Keeping surfaces clean helps eliminate the fuel (body soil, crumbs, moisture) that mold needs to thrive. 

Tips for Mold on Cloth

• Vinegar can treat mold and mildew on clothes and accessories. Go outside and brush away as much surface mold as possible. Going outdoors prevents mold spores from spreading inside.
• Washable items should be cleaned using the hottest water recommended on the care label. Add one cup of vinegar to the washer load—clean stains by soaking the item for eight hours in a solution of oxygen bleach and water. Dry outside in the sun (if possible).
• Wipe down the surface of leather clothes, shoes, and purses with distilled white vinegar outside. After removing the mold, use a suitable leather soap. Dry with a soft cloth. Allow the items to air dry thoroughly, then treat them with a leather conditioner.

When to Hire a Professional for Mold Removal

Smaller mold growth areas caught early can be removed with basic cleaning supplies and by following safety guidelines. If the mold colony covers over 10 square feet (roughly a three-foot by three-foot patch), get it removed professionally.² Hire a professional mold removal company to test and identify the type of mold present. Your local public health department can offer advice on mold testing and refer you to a mold remediation company.

Tips to Keep Mold From Forming in a Home

• Repair plumbing leaks promptly.
• Use a dehumidifier and HVAC systems to help reduce inside humidity levels.
• Install moisture barriers in crawl spaces and basements.
• Clean mold-prone areas frequently to keep mold growth in check.

FAQ

• Does vinegar kill mold permanently?Vinegar is better than bleach at removing mold, mildew, or fungus and keeping it away. It goes deeper than bleach to eliminate fungus.
• How long does it take for vinegar to kill mold?Cover the entire mold area with vinegar for at least an hour to kill the fungus. You can even leave it overnight. Wipe it away with a clean, water-moistened towel or sponge.
• What do you mix with vinegar to clean mold?Use undiluted vinegar—not mixed with anything—and apply it to the mold spot. Wear protective gear like goggles, a mask, and gloves if using a lot of it. Vinegar can be bothersome if splashed, and fumes can irritate those with sensitivities.