Before you start removing the tarnish, recognize the cause of your problems (especially if they recur regularly). Without this, even the best remedy will only work temporarily, temporarily.
The most common reasons for the appearance of the fungus are:
- excessive air humidity,
- poor ventilation of rooms,
- thermal bridges and underheated walls,
- drying laundry in the apartment without airing it,
- leaks in water installations.
therefore, it should go hand in hand with improving the conditions in the apartment, e.g. new habits related to airing or drying laundry.
Ammonia and water solution
Ammonia is a substance with a strong alkaline effect. It effectively destroys fungi and mold structures, which is why it has been used to disinfect surfaces for years. If diluted appropriately, it can also be used at home.
Ingredients and accessories: To make the preparation, you need ammonia (aqueous solution, available in pharmacies or chemical stores), clean water, protective gloves and a mask, sponge or soft brush.
Proportions: The most commonly used proportion is one part ammonia to one part water. This solution is strong enough to deal with the fungus, and at the same time safer than undiluted solution.
How to use: First, ventilate the room well. Ammonia has a strong odor and should not be inhaled for long periods of time. Then:
- Put on gloves and a mask.
- Apply the solution to the moldy place.
- Scrub the surface gently.
- Leave for several minutes.
- Rinse the wall with clean water and dry it.
In many cases, just one application of the solution visibly improves the appearance of the wall. In case of heavy coating, the operation can be repeated after the surface dries.
Important safety rules: Never mix ammonia with preparations containing chlorine, e.g. bleach. This combination produces toxic fumes. Always work with an open window and avoid contact of the solution with the skin.
Tea tree oil
For people who prefer natural solutions, an excellent option is . It is known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties and leaves a pleasant, fresh scent.
The oil works slower than ammonia, but it has one big advantage: it not only removes the visible coating, but also limits the re-development of the fungus.
Ingredients and accessories: You will need tea tree oil, warm water, a spray bottle or bowl, a cloth or sponge.
Proportions: About 10-15 drops of oil are enough for half a liter of water. Mix the mixture thoroughly so that the oil is evenly distributed in the water.
How to use:
- Spray the moldy surface.
- Leave the preparation for at least an hour.
- Wipe the wall with a damp cloth.
- Do not rinse thoroughly – a thin layer of oil may remain on the surface.
In the case of tea tree oil, regularity is very important. If the problem recurs, it is worth repeating the treatment once every few days for two to three weeks.
Removing the tarnish is only the first step. Preventing it from recurring is equally important. For this purpose, take care of daily airing, even in winter (intensively but briefly), efficient ventilation in the kitchen and bathroom, maintaining humidity at 40-60%. It is a good idea to move furniture away from cold walls and to react quickly to leaks and moisture.
If the fungus appears regularly in the same place, your actions may not be enough. Then contact a specialist who will assess whether the problem is deeper (literally) and whether it is necessary to interfere with, for example, the insulation or insulation layer.
