Chlorine bleach

• Household bleach is a highly effective mold killer that also inhibits the growth of new mold. Mix together 1 cup of bleach in a gallon of water and apply it to hard, nonporous surfaces with a spray bottle, sponge or mop. Do not rinse the surface after treatment unless it is a food preparation area or where children will be in contact with the surface. Always work in a well-ventilated area and use gloves when applying bleach. Chlorine can burn the skin, and bleach's harsh fumes can lead to respiratory problems. Never mix bleach with ammonia as it will produce a toxic gas.
  
  

Ammonia

• Ammonia works in much the same way as bleach to kill mold. Like bleach, ammonia's fumes are highly irritating. Wear protective gloves and work in a well-ventilated space. Mix together a 50-50 solution of clear ammonia and water in a spray bottle and spray directly on the mold. Allow the ammonia solution to work for a few hours. Rinse with clear water. Do not mix with bleach.
  
  

Vinegar

• Vinegar does not kill all mold species but it is a safe non-toxic agent for inhibiting mold. Pour distilled white vinegar into a spray bottle and apply it directly to mold. Allow the vinegar to remain on the surface for at least one hour. Rinse the area with clear water and let the surface air dry. The vinegar smell should dissipate in a few hours.
  
  

Borax

• Borax can be found on most supermarket shelves. When mixed with water, this white, powdery compound is an effective mold inhibitor, deodorizer and insecticide and produces no toxic fumes. Add 1 cup borax to a gallon of water and use a stiff brush to scrub away mold. Clean up any excess moisture to prevent mold particles from being released into the air once the cleaned surface dries. There is no need to rinse the treated surface.
  
  

Baking Soda

• Baking soda is an eco-friendly deodorizer that helps to absorb moisture, which inhibits the growth of new mold. Just 1/4 tsp. in a spray bottle of water will do the job. Shake the bottle vigorously to dissolve the baking soda and spray the moldy area. Sponge away the mold and rinse with clear water. Spray the baking soda solution on the area again and let it air dry.
  
  

Hydrogen Peroxide

• Hydrogen peroxide works well as a mold killer on both nonporous surfaces and porous items like clothing. Environmentally friendly hydrogen peroxide emits no toxic fumes or strong odors. Look for 3 percent concentration and spray it directly on the mold. Before using it on clothing, test an inconspicuous area to check for colorfastness. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes on hard surfaces before rinsing the surface with clear water. Store the mixture in an opaque spray bottle or store clear spray bottles away from light, which inhibits hydrogen peroxide's effectiveness.
  
  

Essential Oils

• Found at natural food stores, both grapefruit seed extract and tea tree oil are mold killers. Look for tea tree oil made from Melaleuca Alternifolia and expect to pay a bit more than you would pay for common household products. Fill a spray bottle with 1 tsp. of tea tree oil or 10 drops of grapefruit seed extract per cup of water and mix well. Spray the moldy surface and allow it to air dry. No need to rinse unless you find the smell of tea tree oil objectionable.