How to Clean Mold Off Drywall and Prevent It From Coming Back

Mold on drywall is a common problem for homeowners as a result of excess moisture, poor ventilation, or water damage. If left untreated, mold can cause unsightly stains and unpleasant odors while also compromising your health and the structural integrity of your home. Cleaning mold off drywall may seem daunting, but with the right techniques, and precautions, it’s a manageable DIY task. Learn how to clean mold off drywall for a fresher-looking space.

Why Do I Have Mold on my Drywall?

Moisture creates an ideal environment for mold growth. Plumbing or roof leaks, high indoor humidity, or condensation are common reasons you see mold on drywall. Bathrooms, basements, and kitchens experience higher moisture levels and are prone to mold. Insufficient bathroom ventilation, for example, can cause steam from showers to accumulate, leading to damp conditions where mold thrives. Basements with poor drainage or water infiltration can create a similar effect.

Signs of Mold on Drywall

Mold on drywall can go unnoticed until it becomes a serious issue because it can grow on the surface and within the material. Identifying the early signs of mold prevents it from spreading and causing damage to your home or health concerns. Below are some common indicators of mold on drywall:

• Visible discoloration: Spots or streaks of black, green, brown, or white may appear on the drywall surface.

• Musty odor: A persistent earthy or damp smell is a sign of mold growing behind or within the drywall.

• Bubbling or peeling paint: Moisture trapped in the drywall can cause the paint to separate, indicating potential mold growth.

• Soft or warped drywall: Mold can weaken the structure, causing it to feel soft or appear misshapen.

• Unexplained allergy symptoms: If you or someone in your home experiences increased sneezing, coughing, or skin irritation, mold may be the culprit.

• Visible water damage: Stains or damp patches on drywall can be a sign of mold growth, especially if left untreated.

How to Clean Mold Off Drywall

Mold on drywall can be cleaned away effectively if it's caught early and the damage isn't severe. Here’s a step-by-step guide to safely remove mold growth.

Prep the Area

Before you start cleaning, you'll prep the area to ensure your own safety and prevent mold spores from spreading. Wear protective gear, including gloves, goggles, and a respirator mask, to shield yourself from mold exposure. Seal off the area using plastic sheeting and painter’s tape to keep the spores contained. Remove furniture or cover it with a plastic sheet. Ventilation is crucial, so open windows or use a fan to direct airflow outdoors. 

Assess the Extent of Damage

Examine the drywall to determine the severity of the mold growth. Look for visible mold, water stains, and signs of structural damage, such as soft or crumbling drywall. Cleaning is sufficient for superficial damage. However, replacement may be necessary if the mold has deeply penetrated the drywall or the material feels weak. Use a flashlight to inspect hidden corners and look over adjacent surfaces where mold may have spread.

Clean Mold off the Drywall

For light mold growth, spray the affected area with a solution of water and mild detergent or vinegar. For more extensive growth, use a bleach solution consisting of 1 cup of bleach per 1 gallon of water.

Let the cleaning solution sit on the mold for 10 to 15 minutes to kill the spores. Gently scrub the area with a sponge or soft brush, avoiding excessive pressure that could damage the drywall. Wipe away any residue with a clean, damp cloth. Avoid oversaturating the drywall with water, as it can worsen the damage and create further mold risks.

Dry the Affected Area

After the mold has been cleaned, dry the area thoroughly using a fan, dehumidifier, or both to prevent it from returning. Ensure the area is completely dry because even a small amount of lingering moisture can encourage mold regrowth. Once the area is dry, inspect it again for any signs of remaining mold or dampness.

How to Prevent Mold on Drywall

Maintain your home's moisture level to prevent mold growth. Address leaks in the roof, windows, or plumbing and inspect any areas that could result in excess moisture, repairing issues promptly. Use exhaust fans to reduce mold in bathrooms and the kitchen to lower humidity and keep spaces prone to dampness well-ventilated, like the basement. Invest in a dehumidifier to keep indoor humidity levels below 50% to further reduce mold growth.

Proper drywall installation and maintenance are also crucial and help reduce mold growth. Choose mold-resistant drywall in areas prone to high moisture, such as bathrooms, and seal and paint drywall surfaces with mold-resistant products for extra protection. Promptly clean any water damage as you see it so you don't have to worry about how to get rid of mold down the line.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

Cleaning mold on drywall can be a manageable DIY project if the mold growth is minor and limited to a small, easily accessible area. If you have the appropriate safety gear and tools, you can successfully address smaller mold problems without professional help, provided there’s no underlying damage or persistent moisture issues.

However, hiring a professional is recommended when mold has penetrated deeply into the drywall or for extensive mold infestations, like if you're dealing with white mold versus black mold. Professionals are also necessary if mold is present in hard-to-reach or hidden areas, such as inside walls or ceilings, where professional tools may be needed to assess and remedy the damage. Mold caused by significant water damage, such as flooding, or if toxic mold varieties like black mold are suspected, hire a mold remediation specialist for a safe and thorough cleanup.