Mold can be found everywhere. In nature, it is an organism that helps break down organic components such as fallen leaves and dead trees. However, mold from kitchen cabinets and from other areas at home should be prevented. Mold is not only unattractive, but studies show that exposure to mold can cause allergies and respiratory problems like asthma. So, when you discover mold in homes, you should take prompt action to remove it immediately. One of the areas in a home that is prone to mold growth is your kitchen cabinets. This is because of their exposure to high levels of humidity, little ventilation, and moisture. When the inside of the cabinet becomes wet and remains damp, mold will eventually begin to thrive. This article will help learn the steps on how to remove mold from kitchen cabinets. 

What is the Ideal Condition for Mold Growth?

Mold and mildew begin to thrive on warm wet surfaces. It produces tiny spores and spreads through the air. When the environment has the right temperature, moisture, and food source, the spores will begin to form new mold colonies and eventually spread to the area they settle in. 

How To Clean Mold From Kitchen Cabinets

Fortunately, minor problems with mold from kitchen cabinets can be removed using an ammonia-free cleaner or a commercial mold cleaner. But, before you begin cleaning the mold from kitchen cabinets, make sure to protect yourself against the cleaning solution and mold. You should wear a mask, goggles, and gloves. Also, keep the area well-ventilated while cleaning. 

Here are some steps on how we can clean mold from kitchen cabinets.

Step 1: The first thing we have to do when cleaning mold from kitchen cabinets is to remove all items found in them. Remove all the items stored in your cabinet and discard anything that has been infested. Place them in a sealed plastic bag. 

Step 2: Prepare the cleaner that you will be using. Choose a commercial cleaner that is used for killing and removing mold from kitchen cabinets . You can also use a natural product like distilled white vinegar, or bleach and hydrogen peroxide. However, bleach and hydrogen peroxide may cause some discoloration on your wood materials. So, it is always best to do a fastness test on a hidden small area of your cabinet before you apply on a larger portion.

Step 3: Spray the moldy areas with your cleaning solution and scrub the mold with a stiff-brush scrub so you can thoroughly remove it. You may also use a toothbrush to get into hard-to-reach surfaces.

Step 4: Rinse the cleaning solution thoroughly with warm water and a clean rag. Wipe down the surfaces you scrubbed on to remove any mold residues from your kitchen cabinet. 

Step 5: Thoroughly and promptly dry your kitchen cabinet and check the area for any traces of mold. If you can still find mold and mildew inside your cabinet, repeat the steps again and make sure to end the cleaning process with thorough drying. Leave the doors open for at least two hours to ensure that the entire area is dry before putting your items back inside the cabinets. If mold still persists, seek help from a professional. 

Locate the source of the problem

To keep mold from occurring again inside your kitchen cabinet, it is important to find the cause of the moisture problem. The source of the moisture could be anything from your leaking pipe or dishwasher. Fix the leaks immediately. In some cases, it might be a cause of water seeping under the sink then dripping to the cabinet. If the cause of mold growth in your kitchen cabinet is due to a leaking sink, you might need to remove the entire kitchen sink to reach the areas where mold is growing. 

How To Prevent Mold Growth In Kitchen Cabinets

As mentioned, mold grows in moist areas. So, the best way to prevent these mold problems from happening is to keep the area dry. Here are some ways to keep your cabinet mold-free. 

• Regularly check your pipes for any signs of damage and fix them as soon as you notice the problem. 
• Wipe up any spills or leaks immediately.
• Do not store wet sponges or other wet materials under your kitchen sink. 
• Always your cabinets clean.

For professional mold removal services, contact Water Damage Riverside of Superior Restoration. We will help you return your kitchen cabinets back to their safe and mold-free condition.