Few things strike fear in the minds of homeowners quite like the sight of mold creeping across a bathroom wall or basement floor. Mold isn’t just unsightly, it can lead to health issues, cause unpleasant odors, stain surfaces and, once removed, can quickly return … no matter how diligently you scrubbed it away.
The challenge? Mold is a living organism, more specifically a microorganism, as in a “Germ.” Wiping away the surface growth isn’t enough, the organism needs to be killed. Without the right approach, spores can linger and regrow, leading to the same problems all over again. That’s why many people wonder: Can spraying it with a disinfectant really kill mold?
The short answer is yes. But not every disinfectant will do the job. To truly eliminate mold and prevent it from returning, you need a two-step process: remove it with an EPA registered disinfectant cleaner, not just a “disinfectant,” but a Disinfectant Cleaner that specifically lists its ability to kill mold on its label, then, protect the surface with a long-lasting antimicrobial barrier.
Can Disinfectant Cleaners Kill Mold?
When most people reach for a spray bottle of all-purpose cleaner, they expect results. But here’s the truth: most “all-purpose cleaners” have no germ killing capabilities. So while they may be of some help in removing mold, they’re not formulated to kill existing mold, or to prevent its return.
Mold requires something more powerful and precise. PermaSafe CLEAN is an EPA-registered Disinfectant Cleaner that is specifically approved to kill mold, mildew, and fungi on hard, non-porous and soft, porous surfaces, and to keep them at bay for weeks, when used as directed.
The catch? While PermaSafe CLEAN is viewed by industry professionals as the Gold Standard for mold removal, elimination and remediation work, like all disinfectant cleaners, its residual protective properties can be lost over time, especially if the surfaces in question are exposed to weather, regular cleaning, or other conditions involving moisture or abrasion. And this is where PermaSafe SHIELD comes in.
Step 1: Remove Mold with PermaSafe CLEAN
Think of CLEAN as your reset button. When properly applied, CLEAN tackles existing growth at its source, destroying mold and fungi at its roots.
How PermaSafe CLEAN Works on Mold:
- Spray undiluted PermaSafe CLEAN onto the affected surfaces until thoroughly wet.
- Keep the surface wet with CLEAN for at least 10 minutes.
- This 10 minute dwell time is critical, as it allows CLEAN to effectively penetrate the mold.
- Once complete, allow the area to air dry.
Where to Use It:
- Bathrooms: tile, tubs, sinks, caulk and grout lines.
- Kitchens: around sinks, backsplashes, and counters.
- Basements: on sealed concrete, stone, or other flooring.
- Outdoor Furniture: plastic, metal, coated wood, and fabrics that often sees dampness.
Bonus Benefit: CLEAN also deodorizes as it works. Because it oxidizes odors instead of covering them up, it can help eliminate that musty “mildew smell” while addressing the problem at its source. In simple terms, CLEAN clears the slate. However, to decisively stop mold from returning, adding a second step is just smart business.
Step 2: Prevent Regrowth with PermaSafe SHIELD
Once the mold has been killed, it’s time to protect the surface. That’s where SHIELD steps in.
What SHIELD Does:
- SHIELD is a uniquely durable and effective, antimicrobial surface protectant.
- Creates an invisible, water-proof, weather-proof, microbiostaticbarrier on surfaces.
- Continuously inhibits the growth and spread of mold, mildew, algae, and bacteria.
- Chemically bonds to surfaces and remains antimicrobially effective for up to 3 months.
How to Use SHIELD:
- Make sure the surface has been thoroughly cleaned (CLEAN is the natural partner here).
- Spray surface from a distance of 4–6 inches, being sure to cover the target area completely.
- Allow to dry, or let stand for 3 minutes, then wipe away any remaining water with a cloth or sponge.
- SHIELD can be applied with a spray bottle, electric fogger, or other powered spraying device.
Where SHIELD Helps Most:
- Bathrooms and Kitchens: Protect grout, caulk, tile, cabinet interiors, and high-moisture areas.
- Basements and Laundry Rooms: Prevent mold on walls, floors, and other damp, low-light areas.
- HVAC Air Filters: Keep mold, mildew and other microbes from cycling through your spaces.
- Fabrics and Carpets: Safe on these and other soft surfaces, when pre-tested for color-fastness.
CLEAN eliminates the problems you can see. SHIELD helps stop it from coming back. Together, they’re a powerful one-two punch against mold, mildew and fungi, and the problems they cause.
Everyday Mold Prevention Tips
Even with the right products, prevention plays a huge role in keeping mold away. Here are a few tips to help you keep your home and work spaces mold, mildew, and microbe-free:
- Control humidity: Use dehumidifiers or exhaust fans to keep indoor humidity below 60%.
- Fix leaks fast: Don’t allow plumbing issues or roof leaks to linger, as mold thrives on moisture.
- Ventilate damp areas: Open windows, run fans, and let fresh air in whenever possible.
- Dry quickly: After spills, floods, or even laundry accidents, dry surfaces and fabrics right away.
- Schedule routine protection: Reapply SHIELD every three months or sooner if you notice moisture, odors, stains, or visible growth returning.
To effectively eliminate mold and prevent its return, you must first determine and overcome the cause, which is typically moisture related (a water leak in the general area), and then treat the affected areas with antimicrobial products that are EPA registered specifically for the elimination and prevention of mold and mildew, being sure to carefully follow their Directions for Use.
PermaSafe CLEAN is a long-proven solution that effectively kills mold, mildew and fungi at their roots, and helps prevent their regrowth. Learn more about PermaSafe CLEAN here.
PermaSafe SHIELD offers highly durable, long-term antimicrobial protection by creating a microbiostatic barrier on treated surfaces that can halt microbial growth for months. Learn more about PermaSafe SHIELD here.
With PermaSafe CLEAN and SHIELD, and some time and effort, your Mold Problems can be Old Problems before you know it! For more mold remediation information, be sure to visit www.PermaSafe.com.
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