How to remove mold from clothes and treat closet wall?« Back to Previous Page
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My bedroom closet on the outside wall has started to smell really damp, and I just pulled out a winter jacket to find a patch of black mold on it. We've had the AC running constantly to fight the humidity, but it seems worse since that last big foggy spell a couple of weeks ago. What's the best way to clean my clothes and who should I call to properly treat the wall itself to stop it from coming back?
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Start by washing the moldy clothes with a cup of white vinegar added to your regular detergent in hot water, if the fabric allows. For dry-clean-only items, take them to a professional and point out the mold. Sun-drying is highly effective in our climate for killing residual spores.
The wall issue is the root cause. That damp smell and mold growth on an exterior wall strongly suggest condensation is forming inside the wall cavity, a common issue here due to the extreme temperature differential between our hot, humid outdoor air and the chilled AC interiors. Simply wiping the wall with bleach is a temporary fix. You need a professional inspection to diagnose the source. The problem could be inadequate wall insulation, a hidden plumbing leak, or compromised vapour barriers. They will use moisture meters and thermal imaging to find the exact moisture source behind the wall. For remediation, the wall cavity must be properly dried, and the affected area treated with antimicrobial solutions. The underlying cause, like improving insulation or sealing cracks, must be addressed to prevent recurrence, especially before next winter's foggy season. Look for a provider that offers a detailed assessment report and post-remediation verification to ensure the problem is solved, not just cleaned. |
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