Mildew on walls is more than just an eyesore—it can contribute to poor indoor air quality, cause musty odors, and even lead to potential health issues. Mildew thrives in damp, humid environments and often appears in bathrooms, basements, kitchens, and areas with poor ventilation. The good news is that learning how to clean mildew off walls is simple with the right approach.
This guide will walk you through the most effective ways to remove, when to use different cleaning solutions, and how to prevent it from coming back.
Mildew vs. Mold
Before you clean mildew off walls, it’s important to understand what you’re dealing with. Many homeowners confuse mildew with mold, but they are not the same.
- Mildew is a type of fungus that grows on the surface of walls. It is typically white, gray, or light yellow and has a powdery or fluffy appearance. It’s easier to remove than mold and doesn’t cause as much structural damage.
- Mold, on the other hand, is darker in color (often black, green, or blue) and can penetrate deep into surfaces. Mold can cause serious structural issues and health concerns, especially for individuals with allergies or respiratory conditions.
If the affected area is widespread or if the growth appears dark and thick, you may be dealing with mold rather than mildew. In that case, professional mold remediation may be necessary. But if you’re sure it’s mildew, follow the steps below to clean mildew off walls safely and effectively.
Safety Precautions
Before you start cleaning, take these precautions to ensure safety and prevent mildew spores from spreading.
- Ventilate the Area – Open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate. If cleaning in a bathroom or basement, turn on exhaust fans or use a portable fan.
- Wear Protective Gear – Put on rubber gloves, safety goggles, and a face mask to protect your skin and respiratory system from mildew spores and cleaning chemicals.
- Test a Small Spot First – Some cleaning solutions, especially bleach, can damage painted walls or wallpaper. Always test in an inconspicuous area first.
- Protect Surrounding Areas – Cover floors and nearby furniture with plastic sheets or towels to catch any drips.
Now that you’re prepared, let’s move on to how to clean mildew off walls effectively.
How to Clean Mildew Off Walls
Mildew can be stubborn, but with the right cleaning techniques, you can remove it efficiently. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
You’ll need the following:- White vinegar (a natural antifungal agent)
- Baking soda (for scrubbing and deodorizing)
- Hydrogen peroxide (to kill mildew and lighten stains)
- Mild dish soap (for gentle cleaning)
- Bleach solution (for severe mildew cases on non-porous surfaces)
- Spray bottle, sponge, scrub brush, microfiber cloth, and a bucket of warm water
- Choose the Right Cleaning Solution Based on the Severity
- For Light Mildew: Fill a spray bottle with undiluted white vinegar and spray the affected area. Let it sit for at least an hour before wiping it off with a clean cloth.
- For Stubborn Mildew Stains: Mix baking soda with water to form a paste. Apply the paste to the mildew, let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then scrub gently with a brush.
- For Heavy Mildew Growth: Use hydrogen peroxide or a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 3 parts water) on non-porous surfaces. Apply with a sponge and scrub until the mildew disappears.
- Scrub and Remove the Mildew
- Apply the cleaning solution directly to the mildew-affected wall.
- Allow the solution to sit for 10–15 minutes to break down the mildew.
- Use a scrub brush, sponge, or cloth to gently remove the mildew stains. Avoid scrubbing too hard, as this can damage the paint or wallpaper.
- Wipe away any residue with a damp microfiber cloth.
- Dry the Area Completely
- Use a dry cloth to remove excess moisture.
- Increase ventilation by running a fan or dehumidifier.
- Keeping the area dry is crucial to prevent mildew from returning.
At this point, you have successfully learned how to clean mildew off walls. However, prevention is just as important as cleaning.
How to Prevent Mildew from Returning
Once you’ve removed mildew, taking preventive measures will help keep your walls clean and mildew-free. Here’s what you can do:
- Improve Air Circulation – Open windows, run exhaust fans, and use ceiling fans to keep air moving.
- Control Humidity Levels – A dehumidifier can keep indoor humidity below 50%, making it harder for mildew to grow.
- Fix Leaks Immediately – Check for leaks in pipes, roofs, and windows. Even small amounts of moisture can create the perfect environment for mildew.
- Use Mildew-Resistant Paint – If mildew is a recurring issue, consider repainting walls with a mold- and mildew-resistant paint.
- Regularly Clean High-Moisture Areas – Wipe down walls, tiles, and other surfaces with a vinegar solution at least once a month.
- Keep Walls Dry – After showers or cooking, wipe condensation off walls and use an exhaust fan to dry the area quickly.
These simple steps can significantly reduce the chances of mildew forming on your walls again.
When to Call a Home Inspector
Sometimes, mildew is a symptom of a more significant moisture problem in your home. If you notice mildew returning frequently despite your best efforts, it may be a sign of hidden leaks, poor insulation, or inadequate ventilation. A home inspector can assess your home for underlying issues that contribute to mildew growth. They can check for leaks behind walls, assess attic and basement ventilation, and provide recommendations to keep your home mildew-free.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to clean mildew off walls is an essential skill for any homeowner. With the right cleaning solutions and preventive measures, you can keep your home looking fresh and healthy. Whether you use natural cleaners like vinegar and baking soda or stronger options like hydrogen peroxide and bleach, tackling mildew early will save you from bigger issues down the road.
If mildew continues to appear, consider addressing potential moisture problems with the help of a home inspector. A professional evaluation can identify leaks, ventilation issues, or insulation problems contributing to mildew growth.
