THE BASICS OF SORTING YOUR CONTENTS
Mould spores and hyphae (roots) will fragment into hundreds of toxic particles when killed. When inhaled these ultrafine and nano particles, and the toxins residing on them, trigger the innate immune system which sees them as Pathogen-associated molecular pattern (PAMPs) (Berndtson, 2016. Biotoxin Pathway 2.0). Killing mould spores could also make them produce more mycotoxins and other defense mechanisms such as microbial VOCs as they die.
Why You Should Never Just Kill Mould
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make when dealing with mould is reaching for bleach or a mould-killing spray. While it might seem logical to kill the mould, this approach can actually make your indoor environment more dangerous. Understanding why is crucial for protecting your family’s health.
The Science Behind Mould Removal vs Killing
When mould is killed using biocides, bleach or other chemical agents, the dead mould spores and fragments remain on the surface and in the air. These dead particles are still biologically active — they contain mycotoxins, beta-glucans and other inflammatory compounds that trigger immune responses when inhaled.
Research by Dr Ritchie Shoemaker and others has shown that dead mould fragments can be just as harmful as live mould. The fragments are often smaller than intact spores, meaning they penetrate deeper into the lungs and are harder for the body to clear. Killing mould can also cause it to release additional mycotoxins as a defence mechanism before dying.
The Right Way to Handle Mould
Proper mould remediation follows the principle of physical removal rather than chemical killing:
- HEPA vacuuming: Using a vacuum with a true HEPA filter captures mould spores and fragments without releasing them back into the air.
- Damp wiping: Wiping surfaces with a microfibre cloth and appropriate cleaning solution physically removes mould from non-porous surfaces.
- Material removal: Heavily contaminated porous materials like plasterboard, carpet and insulation should be carefully removed and disposed of, not just treated.
- Containment: Professional remediators use containment barriers and negative air pressure to prevent mould spores from spreading during the removal process.
Common Products to Avoid
- Bleach: Only works on non-porous surfaces, doesn’t penetrate porous materials, and the water content can actually feed mould growth.
- Mould killer sprays: Kill surface mould but leave toxic fragments behind. Often contain harsh chemicals that add to indoor air pollution.
- Paint-over products: Mould-resistant paint applied over existing mould is purely cosmetic — the mould continues to grow underneath.
DIY vs Professional Remediation
Minor surface mould on non-porous surfaces (like bathroom tiles) can be safely cleaned by homeowners using proper PPE and physical removal techniques. However, professional remediation is recommended when mould covers more than one square metre, is growing in wall cavities or HVAC systems, or when occupants are experiencing health symptoms.
MouldSafe’s IICRC-certified team follows industry best practices for mould remediation, ensuring mould is properly removed — not just killed. Contact us for a professional assessment of your property.