Drywall, the standard material for interior walls, can develop mold under humid conditions.
Drywall, also referred to as gypsum board and plasterboard, is a type of plaster used for wall boards. Drywall can breed mold spores due to its porous texture, which enables it to trap moisture. If you notice signs of mold germination on your drywall, take action immediately to prevent permanent damage.
Heat
Heat eliminates moisture, and mold spores cannot live without a source of moisture. No matter what solution you use to kill mold on drywall, you should always begin by drying out the moisture with heat. Turn on a central heating unit or a portable heater until the area dries completely. If you don't have a heating unit, use a dehumidifier. While a dehumidifier does not use heat, it does draws out the moisture, which offers the same benefits.
Dish Detergent
If you have wallpaper covering your drywall and you want to try to salvage it before the mold takes control and permanently damages the paper, use a mild soap solution. Dish detergents contain anti-fungal ingredients like phosphoric acid, useful for fighting mold. Add 1 or 2 drops of dish detergent to a cup of water and apply it lightly to a sponge, so as to dampen but not soak it. Blot the mold with the soapy water. Dry the paper immediately afterward. Use a second damp sponge to rinse.
Bleach
For non-papered drywall, treat the mold with a solution of diluted chlorine bleach. Pour 1 cup of bleach into 1 gallon of water and mix well. Put on a pair of rubber gloves before applying the bleach directly to the wall, and then apply the solution using a spray bottle. Wait 15 minutes and use warm water to rinse. Dry afterward. Sodium hypochlorite, the primary active ingredient in bleach, is effective at fighting mold.
Quaternary Ammonium Compound
Quaternary ammonium compounds are used by mold removal specialists to neutralize large colonies. You can find these compounds in their liquid form at janitorial supply stores, dairy supply stores and poultry supply stores. Apply the liquid, using a spray bottle. Do not dilute with water unless recommended by the manufacturer. Rinse with water, and dry afterward.
Acids
If you have a very light area of mildew on your drywall, you can neutralize it with a mild acid like citric acid (found in lemon juice) or acetic acid (found in white vinegar). Pour the liquid into a spray bottle, full strength, and spray the affected area. Let it sit for 15 minutes, rinse and dry.
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