Mould on wallpaper is not just unsightly, it can also impact your health and damage wallpaper and walls if left untreated.
Many chemical mould removal products are cosmetic and do not kill the spores. They can also release harsh fumes into your living space. The good news is it’s possible to remove mould permanently using natural products.
Here’s how to remove mould from wallpaper using natural methods:-
What Causes Papered Walls to Get Mouldy?
Before you jump in and start cleaning, take some time to understand the underlying causes of mould within your home. We recommend that you tackle these issues at the same time as performing mould treatment. This will help ensure permanent removal of harmful spores, and preserve your wallpaper from further damage.
This wallpapered ceiling is suffering from black mould due to lack of insulation above the problem area. It's located next to a bathroom meaning humid air comes into contact with the cold spot and condenses. That creates perfect conditions for mould growth.
Underlying causes of mould on wallpaper include:-
- Excess Humidity & Poor Ventilation - Moist air can settle on cold walls, which results in moisture build up. This creates the perfect environment for mould growth. Using a dehumidifier, ensuring the room is well ventilated, and avoiding drying clothing in the room can all help reduce mould growth.
- Water Ingress - Leaks or damp ingress from the exterior of your home can cause damp patches. If your home is prone to damp check for leaks in roofs and gutters. Check the sales on your windows and doors too.
- Non Breathable Materials - if you have an older home, cement based plaster can trap moisture and cause issues with damp and mould. Using breathable plasters and paints will allow moisture to escape instead of it becoming trapped within walls.
- Dirt and Dust - Mould can feed on organic materials, meaning dust on your wallpaper can exacerbate mould growth. Regularly dust and clean your walls after using a natural mould cleaning method.
How to Clean Mould Off Wallpaper Naturally
Firstly, check the cleaning instructions for your wallpaper type. Some wallpapers such as heavily textured or delicate papers will need to be approached carefully. If your wallpaper is painted, you will also need to take extra care. Some paint types can be damaged by excess water and overly enthusiastic scrubbing.
If the mould growth on your wallpaper is heavy, consider using appropriate PPE such as a mask to avoid inhaling mould spores.
Detergent and Water
For light mould patches, just mix some warm water and dish detergent. Use a soft, non abrasive cloth or sponge, wrung out well. Gently wipe the affected area as excess moisture can damage wallpaper.
White Vinegar
Vinegar is an effective natural mould killer because of its antifungal properties. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Adding a few drops of Eucalyptus oil can also help ensure mould is removed permanently.
Apply your solution evenly and thoroughly to the affected areas. Leave for a few hours or overnight, then gently wipe off with a damp cloth.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is another natural cleaner which can help remove mould. Mix a small amount of baking soda with water to create a paste. Apply this to the mould, leave for a few minutes and then wipe clean.
This method is probably not suitable for large mould infestations, and the paste residue may get caught in heavily textured papers.
Auro 412 & 413 Natural Mould Removers
For a powerful natural solution that will help prevent the return of mould on wallpaper, Auro 412 mould eliminator and Auro 413 mould prevention are highly effective. Formulated for effective mould removal without harmful chemicals, they are safe to use in your home whilst maintaining a healthy environment for you and your family.
How to Use Auro 412 & 413:-
Apply Auro 412 Mould Eliminator - Wearing gloves, spray evenly onto the affected surface and leave for at least an hour.
Remove Residue - with a sponge or soft brush, remove the mould residue. Wipe the wallpaper with a well wrung out damp cloth until the surface is clean.
Prevent Mould Returning - Once the wallpaper surface is thoroughly dry, apply Auro 413 to the area. This product will help prevent spore regrowth.
For Ultimate Protection - Consider using Auro 327 Anti Mould Paint on painted wallpaper for long lasting mould prevention.
Using Bleach
If you need to remove mould residue from stubborn areas for cosmetic purposes, a solution of 1 part bleach to 2 parts water can be used. Wipe afterwards to remove any residue and make sure your room is well ventilated.
If unsure how your wallpaper will be affected by a bleach solution, test an inconspicuous area first using a cotton bud.
What if the Mould is Behind Wallpaper?
If you think you have mould growing behind your wallpaper, the only permanent way to remove mould from your home is to strip the wallpaper, treat the wall behind, and redecorate after possible sources of exterior damp have been eliminated.
Signs of hidden mould include musty smells, dark patches underneath your paper, and peeling or bubbling wallpaper.
How to Remove Mould From Wallpaper Permanently
Once you’ve successfully cleaned off and treated mould, it’s important to take the proper steps to ensure mould is removed from wallpaper permanently.
Underlying causes of mould on wallpaper can be mitigated if you:-
- Improve Ventilation - make sure your room is regularly ventilated. This can be done by installing extractor fans, regularly opening windows, and making use of dehumidifiers.
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Eliminate Sources of Water Ingress - Fix any leaks, improve drainage, and address the causes of any damp patches.
- Upgrade Insulation - examine any cold spots to see if additional insulation could help reduce condensation.
- Choose Breathable Paints and Plasters - these allow moisture to escape rather than trapping it.
- Monitor Damp Levels in your walls with a damp probe. These are cheap to buy online, and will allow you to conduct regular checks during different weather conditions to see if moisture is present.
- Perform a Seasonal Deep Clean - eliminate organic matter from your walls by regularly dusting and cleaning affected walls.
- Check Behind Furniture - furniture can hide mould growth. Make sure you check behind furniture and curtains regularly for any early signs of growth.
Can You Just Paint Over Mouldy Wallpaper?
Painting over your problems is a temporary fix at best, your mould will regrow and eventually break through the paint. This will only cause bigger issues down the line. The only healthy and long term solution is to follow proper treatment and prevention measures.
Why Mould is Bad for Your Health
Mould is not only unsightly, it can seriously affect the health of you and your family. This is particularly true for those predisposed to respiratory issues, allergies, or those with weakened immune systems.
If you have very young or elderly family members, they can be particularly vulnerable to the dangers of mould exposure.
Being exposed to mould spores can cause:-
- Runny noses and sore throats.
- Skin irritation and rashes.
- Asthma or breathing difficulties to worsen.
- Headaches and fatigue.
A mould free home is about more than just appearances. It’s about protecting your health too. When you use natural cleaning solutions to remove mould, it preserves the indoor air quality of your home. This means you can enjoy a safer and healthier living environment.
Further Rreading: Bedroom Mould Removal & Long Term Prevention
