CLR Mold and Mildew Remover Review

Unlike bleach, this eco-friendly formula from CLR doesn’t contain chlorine and is safe for most surfaces. It’s also EPA Safer Choice certified.

A great step to preventing mildew is plugging leaks, airing out rooms and improving drainage. But if you still have an issue, use this spray solution to get rid of stains and smells instantly.

Removing Mildew

Mold and mildew are fungus that can be found growing in a wide range of places in your home. They are usually nontoxic but can sometimes cause a variety of symptoms, including watery eyes, a scratchy throat, itchy skin, irritation to the nose and lungs and more.

Many commercial products are available for removing mold and mildew from surfaces. Some of these contain harsh chemicals that can irritate the lungs and sinuses. The EPA recommends choosing a mold and mildew remover that is not bleach-based to reduce the amount of harsh chemicals in your home.

Choose an EPA Safer Choice-certified cleaning product like CLR that is effective at tackling mildew without bleach or other harsh chemicals. It also meets the EPA’s strict criteria for ingredients, performance and packaging. The best way to prevent mildew from returning, though, is by controlling moisture, according to the EPA. This includes plugging leaks, improving ventilation, airing out carpets and making sure that areas where moisture is present are properly sealed.

Preventing Mildew

The key to preventing mildew is to keep surfaces as clean as possible. This is particularly important in hot, humid weather when warm temperatures and moisture promote mold growth.

The preferred organic acid for incorporation in the mold and mildew remover concentrate is acetic acid; however, other aliphatic and aromatic carboxylic acids may also be used. These chemicals are added to the concentrate during the manufacturing process so that they can quickly dissolve the sodium metasilicate and sodium tripolyphosphate when they come in contact with water.

Vacuum mildewed carpeting to remove as many loose mildew spores as possible and then spray the surface with CLR mold and mildew stain remover. Leave it to penetrate the stain for 10 minutes and then blot thoroughly with a dry, clean cloth. The sprayer can be refilled with fresh cleaning solution as needed until the stain is completely removed. For fabrics that cannot be laundered, try applying a full-strength solution of white vinegar (and see over 90 other ways you can use this household staple). If your wood furniture has mildew stains, spray the back with full strength vinegar and wipe thoroughly.

Cleaning Mildew

Most mold and mildew cleaners are easy to use, and many are available in spray formulas. If you’re cleaning a surface in which mildew is growing, a spray solution will allow you to reach tight areas that might be difficult to clean with a sponge or brush. Look for products that don’t emit harsh or irritating odors.

Some cleaners also leave a streaking effect, which may be especially noticeable on smooth surfaces. Check the label to be sure the product you buy will remove streaks and prevent them from returning after use.

Be careful when removing mildew and mold from walls. Even if you thoroughly clean the surface and dry it, “a background level of mold spores may remain, which could regrow if the moisture problem is not resolved,” according to the Environmental Protection Agency. Ensure the area is well ventilated and wear eye and face protection to avoid breathing in the spores. This is particularly important if you’re tackling Stachybotrys, or black mold, which releases mycotoxins that cause health problems such as a bad headache, nosebleeds and a cough.

Disinfecting Mildew

The microscopic spores of both mildew and mold are dangerous to inhale. Mildew typically appears as a white or gray powdery colony and may also turn yellow, brown or black. This fungus usually grows in warm, damp areas like bathrooms and fabrics stored in damp basements and often looks a lot like dirt accumulation.

The best way to remove mildew is with a household bleach and water mixture. If you’re not sure if what you have is mildew or just dirt, try dabbing the stain with a cotton swab dipped in household chlorine bleach. If the color of the stain lightens or disappears, it’s mildew; if not, it’s just dirt.

You can also try using a commercial mold and mildew remover. The concentrated cleaner dissolves stains instantly and requires minimal scrubbing. This product is safe for travertine, marble tile, granite, quartz and all natural stone surfaces. The formula comes in a spray that clings to the surface for easier application. It’s also effective on shower stalls, bathtubs, sinks, rubber mats and patio and lawn furniture.

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