As a homeowner, seeing mold on your wooden furniture or decking can be the equivalent of a death sentence. Well, maybe not quite a death sentence, but it’s enough to make any homeowner shudder. Mold might be easy to remove with bleach, but killing mold is a different story.
Not only can mold look and smell disgusting, but untreated exposure to some molds can be detrimental to health problems. Inhaling mold spores can lead to allergic reactions, and in the worst cases, even asthma attacks.
It is imperative for the health of your household (and for the appearance of it) that you kill mold properly to prevent any potential regrowth. That’s where mold killers come in!
We have found the best mold killers for wood that are designed to treat, kill, and prevent mold regrowth from porous wood surfaces such as decking, garden furniture, and sliding.
We have also compiled a useful buyer’s guide that provides tips on how to identify types of mold, how to kill mold on wood, and how to avoid mold altogether.
OUR TOP PICK
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RMR-86 Instant Mold and Mildew Stain Remover Spray
EDITORS CHOICE
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EcoClean Solutions Mold, Mildew & Algae Remover
BEST VALUE
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Wet and Forget 10587 Moss, Mold, and Mildew Stain Remover
OUR TOP PICK
RMR-86 Instant Mold and Mildew Stain Remover Spray
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When this product is titled “Instant Mold and Mildew Stain Remover”, it really doesn’t lie. This mold spray is designed to remove mold and stains within mere seconds when paired with an electric sprayer. It might take a bit longer with a pump-up sprayer, but the results are still the same. Not only does this product remove and kill mold and stains within seconds, but it is said to prevent regrowth for up to 10 months. This is a great bonus because it means you won’t have to worry about reapplying cheap mold killers every few weeks when the mold comes back. This is a no-mix, contract-grade formula that is said to be five times more powerful than other leading brands.
With its Hybrid Ultrapure Sodium Hypochlorite ingredient, this product is designed to target mold and mildew stains on porous surfaces such as wood, revealing the wood’s original color and state once again.
This ready-to-use formula also requires no scrubbing on even the toughest of stains, so you don’t have to waste any unnecessary energy!Once the stains have gone, so have the unpleasant odors that can linger in a bathroom or yard shed from excessive moisture. This is also a great product for killing mold and stains from shower curtains, kitchens, drywall, bathtubs, brick walls, and more.
Pros
- Fast results – Ready-to-use formula removes and kills mold stains within seconds
- Long-lasting – Wood surfaces go back to their original state for 10 months
- Versatile – Can be used on wooden surfaces and bathrooms, kitchens, brick walls, drywall, and more
Cons
- Will bleach fabrics – Wear old clothing and avoid contact with fabrics as this product will stain them
Most Versatile
EcoClean Solutions Mold, Mildew & Algae Remover
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Whilst some mold killers are only suitable for removing mold and potentially mildew, this product works to kill and clean away mold, mildew, and algae stains – making it the most versatile product on our list. The key active ingredients in this remover are sodium hydroxide and sodium hypochlorite, which is what makes this a strong product to use against tough stains. It can be used either in a spray bottle or sprayer, or it can be scrubbed for small stains.
For decking, sliding, and other larger wooden surfaces, we recommend using a sprayer and scrubbing over any remaining stains. The versatility also comes in the number of surfaces this product can clean. This includes porous surfaces like wood, concrete, brick, and drywall, as well as non-porous surfaces such as bathtubs, bathroom walls, sinks, tiles, and more. It can even be used on boats if you have one.
Pros
- Versatile – Removes mold, mildew, and algae stains from almost every surface
- Fast results – Cleans areas without damaging the surface within minutes
- Powerful formula – Designed to remove tough stains with a premium formula
Cons
- Potential scrubbing – Whilst the product claims no scrubbing is necessary, some scrubbing may be needed depending on the stain and surface
Best for Outdoor Surfaces
Wet and Forget 10587 Moss, Mold, and Mildew Stain Remover
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Not all mold killers are suitable for outdoor use as they are for indoor use. If you live in a wet or humid climate, you will understand the struggles of dealing with mold on outdoor wooden surfaces such as decking and sliding. This is a non-acidic stain remover that contains no bleach and is therefore harmless to outdoor surfaces. It can be applied to any surface – from decking to roof tiles – with a garden sprayer.
Not only will results show within minutes, but this product works to protect these surfaces from mold regrowth for over 10 months; potentially even longer. This is because the formula has residual effect ingredients that can remain active on the surface to prevent recontamination. Not only is this product suitable for removing mold from wooden surfaces, but it can also clean driveways, roofs, marble, stone, outdoor furniture, greenhouses, boats, tombstones, vinyl sliding, and more.
Pros
- Non-acidic – Not harmful to outdoor surfaces
- Easy to use – Use with a garden sprayer to remove tough stains quickly
- Biodegradable ingredients – Biodegradable selective surfactants are non-harmful to surfaces and the environment
Cons
- Not available in California
Best for Wooden Decks
Mold Armor E-Z Deck, Fence, and Patio Wash
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If you are looking for a product designed specifically for killing and removing mold stains from wooden surfaces such as fencing or decking, this is the ideal product for you.
In wet and humid environments, mold is very common on wooden outdoor surfaces, which can make those surfaces smell and look disgusting. This product only needs to be attached to a regular garden hose to mix the solution with the water. Then, the solution comes out through the built-in hose-end adaptor to clean the mold-ridden surface. This is great for those who don’t have a power washer or sprayer because it only requires a basic garden hose that everyone has already. Not only is this ideal for cleaning wooden surfaces from mold and mildew stains, but it works to kill the bacteria to prevent regrowth and recontamination. This product can also be used to prepare wooden surfaces before painting, which is a bonus!
Pros
- Specifically for wooden outdoor surfaces – Ideal for removing and killing mold from decks, fences, wooden furniture, and more
- Easy to use – Hose-end adaptor only needs to be attached to garden hose
- Kills mold and preps wood – Kills mold and mildew and prepares wooden surfaces for painting
Cons
- Not for inside use – Only suitable for outdoors wooden surfaces
Best Scented Mold Killer
Total Solutions Lemonicide Disinfecting Mildew, Virus & Mold Killer
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One of the worst things about mold is the musty and gross odor it produces.
Most mold killers don’t come with a scent, which can be preferred by some people, but others may want a fresh odor to further eliminate the smell from the mold. That’s where this Total Solutions product comes in. Lemonicide, as the name suggests, kills and removes mold and mildew whilst leaving a fresh, lemon scent.
This is a commercial-grade disinfectant that is suitable for cleaning tile, steel, porcelain, and wooden surfaces from bacteria. Not only can it kill mold and mildew, but it is suitable for killing malignant viruses including pneumonia dysenteries.
Because of its bacteria-killing abilities, this product is suitable for home use as well as in hospitals, nursing homes, food services, retail businesses, schools, public bathrooms, and more. Whilst the formula is powerful, it is non-abrasive and will not damage surfaces.
Pros
- Lemon scent – Leaves fresh lemon scent after cleaning to prevent mold odor from lingering
- Kills mold and bacteria – Kills and removes mold and mildew stains, as well as bacteria from viruses
- Used in professional settings – Suitable for home use, hospitals, nursing homes, schools, hospitality businesses, and more
Cons
- Scrubbing required – Product needs to be scrubbed into the area, so it might not be suitable for large mold-ridden surfaces
Best Mold Killer For Wood Buying Guide
Types of Mold
There are 3 main types of mold that are identified by their color – green, black, and white. Green mold is a build-up of fungal bacteria that is usually found on out-of-date food products. This type of mold is most commonly found indoors and is a sign of old bacteria. White mold is similar to green mold in that it is mostly found indoors. This mold type is commonly found on plants caused by root rot and porous walls such as drywall. White mold is often mistaken for mildew as it occurs when the area has been exposed to wetness or humidity. Black mold is one of the most sinister types of mold. Exposure to this type of mold can lead to health problems such as asthma because of the environments in which this mold grows.
Damp and musty environments are the cause of this mold, so ventilation is essential. Black mold spreads very quickly and should be removed as fast as possible.
Why Bleach Isn’t Enough To Kill Mold
Bleach is great for removing some light mold stains on certain surfaces. However, bleach can often do more harm than good.
Bleach is an abrasive substance that can damage the surface of which you are scrubbing. Drywall, for example, shouldn’t be scrubbed with bleach if there is mold because the bleach will lighten the area of the surface. Bleach is often only recommended for light mold stains and applied with a mixture of water by a pump spray. The solution should then stay in the wall without scrubbing for several minutes before wiping it away. If the mold doesn’t move, then bleach isn’t enough. However, bleach is not suitable for porous surfaces such as wood. Whilst it might be fine for sinks or bathtubs, mold spreads deep into porous surfaces that bleach cannot touch. It might clear some mold stains from the surface, but it won’t do anything to kill the mold from the source. Bleach is also said to increase the risk of health problems. When exposed to large amounts of bleach, this can affect the lungs, eyes, mouth, and skin. It can cause chest pains, vomiting, breathing problems, and can trigger asthma attacks.
How To Kill Mold
- Make sure to keep the room well-ventilated if indoors. Angle a fan so the fumes can blow towards the window.
- Wear protective gear including gloves, goggles, and masks. Also, wear clothing that you won’t mind will get dirty or potentially stained. Your clothes should cover all of your skin.
- Read the instructions of your mold killer product carefully. This will warn you about potential damage to surfaces and how to use the product.
- Follow the instructions, making sure to mix the solution with water if necessary. Most mold killers require a pump spray, sprayer, or garden hose.
- Some mold killers won’t require this, but you may need to scrub away tough stains. Leave the solution on the surface for 10 minutes before scrubbing if the stain doesn’t go away.
- Some products are mold killers, some are mold stain removers, and some are a mixture of both. Make sure you know this beforehand.
How To Prevent Mold
<p “=”” style=”text-align: left;” tve-droppable”=””>Here are our top tips to avoid mold in your home:
- <li “=”” style=”text-align: left;” tve-droppable”=””>Keep your rooms well-ventilated if there is a chance of humidity. This means keeping the windows open when you shower or have a bath, when you’re cooking, and when your washing is hanging up to dry inside. Ventilation fans are useful for this, too. <li “=”” style=”text-align: left;” tve-droppable”=””>Invest in a dehumidifier or air conditioner if you live in a humid climate. The humidity level should be kept below 50%. <li “=”” style=”text-align: left;” tve-droppable”=””>Don’t use carpets in wet areas like kitchens or bathrooms. The water will evaporate and have to go somewhere – which is usually on to the walls – and will turn into mold over time. <li “=”” style=”text-align: left;” tve-droppable”=””>Also, avoid carpets in basements. Area rugs are much easier for providing similar warmth as a carpet but can be cleaned and washed easily if they get wet. <li “=”” style=”text-align: left;” tve-droppable”=””>Make sure to dry wet rugs and bath mats. <li “=”” style=”text-align: left;” tve-droppable”=””>Don’t leave damp clothes in the washing machine for too long as this is an ideal environment for mold to grow. <li “=”” style=”text-align: left;” tve-droppable”=””>Open the windows and doors when the dryer is on. If possible, hang your wet clothes outside.
Safety / Eco-Friendliness
As always when dealing with chemical products, you need to wear the right clothing and protective gear. This includes protective eyewear, masks, gloves, long-sleeved shirts, and long-sleeved pants. This is to protect your skin from harm if you come into contact with the product. Also, you need to prepare the area. Outdoors areas won’t generally need preparation (because what better ventilation than the great outdoors). Indoor areas will need open windows and a fan to push the fumes outside. In serious cases of black mold, you should duct tape doors to prevent contamination. Whilst not all chemical products are eco-friendly, people who are conscious of not affecting the environment should look for mold killers and stain removers with biodegradable formulas.
Best Mold Killer For Wood – FAQ’s
What can I spray on wood to kill mold?
Mold killer is the best option for killing mold on wood surfaces. These surfaces include decking, sliding, fences, gates, and garden furniture.
Mold killer and stain removers are designed specifically for porous surfaces as they can seep through the surface to the root of the mold. Depending on the product, you should use a pump spray, electric sprayer, or a regular garden hose to target the mold-ridden wood surface.
Does vinegar kill mold on wood?
For indoor surfaces with small mold-affected areas, vinegar is a useful home remedy for killing mold. Vinegar can be sprayed onto a wooden surface and left for an hour.
Then, wipe away the vinegar with a damp cloth to see the results. If the mold is still there, you can try again. If the mold refuses to budge, you will need something more powerful. However, vinegar won’t be suitable for some porous outdoor wooden surfaces such as decking, which will need something more chemical.
Vinegar is also most effective for removing mold stains or killing mold from non-porous surfaces such as bathtubs or toilet seats. Also, vinegar won’t be suitable for killing mold on soft surfaces such as rugs or clothing.
What does black mold look like on wood?
Each patch of black mold will look different on wooden surfaces. Generally speaking, black mold usually appears gray or green on wood.
At the beginning of the spread, the mold will have white areas which indicate the contamination and spread of the spores. The longer the mold is left untreated, the darker it will become, giving it the characteristic “black” color.
Is black mold on wood dangerous?
Black mold isn’t toxic, but it can be the cause of some health problems. People with breathing problems such as allergies or asthma should avoid exposure to black mold as the spores will trigger bad breathing.
The more exposure one has to black mold, the more dangerous it becomes. However, black mold isn’t the most dangerous mold, and can generally be treated with the appropriate chemicals such as mold killer designed specifically for porous surfaces like wood.
