There’s a four-letter word that strikes fear in every homeowner – mold! Mold can cause serious damage to the surfaces it grows on, and even worse, certain types of mold spores are toxic and can cause health problems. Windows, particularly those that are exposed to condensation are a hotspot for mold growth. The fungus usually grows along the window sills and within the corners of the panes. It’s a good idea to pay attention to them so that you can take action as soon as you spot it.
How Do You Get Rid of Mold on Windows?
Are green, brown, yellow, pink, or black spots growing along your windows? Do those spots appear to have a fuzzy texture? If so, you can be pretty sure you’re having mold issues.
Mold grows quickly and typically goes completely unnoticed until it becomes a serious problem. By that point, it may have already damaged your home and possibly become a health hazard.
The question is, how do you remove that fuzzy, colorful, or black mold on your window sills and keep windows clean? Fortunately, there are some things that you can do to clean and have mold removed before it becomes a serious problem.
Gather Your Supplies
To remove mold from your windows, you need the right supplies and cleaning products. Fortunately, the supplies that are needed are pretty simple. In fact, you probably already have them in your house. They include:
- A face mask to protect against hazardous mold if present
- A bucket
- Warm water
- Bleach, white vinegar or ammonia
- Clean clothes or sponges
- Window cleaner
- Paper towels
Once you’ve assembled your supplies, you can begin removing the mold from your windows. When you use these chemicals, make sure your room is properly ventilated.
Start Cleaning the Windows
To remove mold from your window sill and window frame, use the above-mentioned supplies and the following steps:
Prep the cleaning solution
Fill the bucket with one gallon of warm water. Add about ¼ cup of bleach or ammonia. Mix the solution to dissolve the bleach or ammonia. White vinegar is also a safe and powerful choice.
Prep the cloth or sponge
Dip the clean cloth or sponge into the solution of water and bleach or water and ammonia. Ensure that the cloth or sponge is fully immersed. Remove it, and carefully wring out any excess solution over the bucket so it pours back in.
Clean the windows
Apply the cloth or sponge to the mold-affected areas on your windows, moving it in a circular motion. This will loosen and remove the mold.
Wipe the windows down
With a dry cloth or sponge, wipe the affected area down. Doing so will remove any mold remnants, as well as the cleaning solution.
Inspect the window
Examine the affected area to ensure that the mold is, in fact, gone. If not, apply the window cleaner with a spray bottle to the affected area and wipe it with another clean, dry cloth.
Repeat these steps until you have successfully removed any mold growth from your windows.
Helpful Tips For Removing Mold on Windows
To ensure success, here are some additional steps you can use to get rid of mold growth from your windows.
- If removing the mold is challenging, try making a stronger solution of bleach and water or ammonia and water. Instead of using ¼ cup use a ½ cup of bleach or ammonia per gallon of water.
- DO NOT mix bleach and ammonia. The fumes these two substances create when combined can be hazardous to your health. Use either bleach or ammonia; never both.
- Consider wearing old clothing that you don’t mind getting damaged.
- If your skin is sensitive, consider wearing protective gloves while you’re cleaning the windows.
- Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly after you have finished the project.
Prevent Mold From Forming on Your Windows
- Keep your windows free from the conditions mold thrives on:
- Cleaning and maintaining your windows regularly
- Keep windows and window sills dry and well-ventilated
- Wipe down window frames
- Use a dehumidifier or fan to reduce moisture, especially during humid weather
Cleaning Mold Off Windows
While the sight of mold can be scary, removing it from your windows is actually easier than you think. With the above-mentioned tips, you can successfully eliminate mold on your windows and avoid any additional problems.
Discount Window and Door of Omaha
At Discount Window and Door of Omaha, we are committed to providing the best quality doors and replacement windows. We employ the most skilled installers to ensure the highest standard of quality service. Our Omaha door and window installers are highly trained, certified industry professionals with years of experience, including some second and third-generation employees.