The Best Essential Oils for Mold Prevention and Removal

Mold is a common problem in homes, and it can be difficult to get rid of. Some of the common methods for killing or preventing mold involve harsh chemicals that can be potentially harmful. However, if you’re looking for safe and natural ways to prevent and kill mold, there are some options (like these natural mold removal methods).

Fortunately, there are some essential oils that can be used to combat mold. In this article, we’ll discuss the best essential oils for mold prevention and removal. We’ll also provide some tips on how to use these oils safely and effectively.

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Problems Associated With Mold in the Home

Mold can cause a number of problems. It can lead to respiratory problems, such as bronchitis and asthma. Mold can also cause skin irritation and rashes. In addition, mold can damage your home’s structure and any belongings that are stored in it.

If you have mold in your home, it’s important to take action to remove it. Otherwise, you and your family could be at risk for health problems.

The good news is that there are some effective natural solutions for dealing with mold. Essential oils can be used to kill surface mold and mildew and prevent them from returning.

Areas in the Home Where Mold Commonly Grows

Mold often grows in damp, dark areas. Some of the most common places for mold to grow in the home include:

The basement
The kitchen
The bathroom
Laundry rooms

It’s important to be extra vigilant about mold prevention in these areas. Regular cleaning and inspection can help you keep mold at bay.

In addition, if you have any water leaks, it’s important to fix them as soon as possible. Mold thrives in damp environments, so even a small leak can lead to mold growth.

How to Use Essential Oils to Remove Mold

The mold-killing capabilities of essential oils are somewhat inconclusive, but essential oils can help to prevent mold growth by creating an inhospitable environment for mold spores. We recommend using essentials for small occurrences of surface mold, as well as for cleaning the air in your home.

There are two ways you can use essential oils for mold, and we’ll explain each method below.

Apply Essential Oils on Surface Mold

If you can see mold on a surface in your home, or if you know that the surface has been exposed to mold spores, you can apply essential oils directly to the surface. Because you need the oils to be strong enough to kill the mold, you should only dilute it a small amount, which helps to keep the potency up.

You can either apply the essential oils undiluted or dilute them with a small amount of water. Drop or spray the oil directly on the surface. Use a soft cloth to gently rub the surface. If you’re dealing with visible mold, rub until all of the mold has been removed. If the mold is not visible and you’re trying to kill any mold spores, rub for about a minute to ensure that oils have come in contact with any mold spores that may be present.

It’s important to note that this method should only be used with small areas of mold. If you have a major mold issue, you should contact a professional.

Using a Diffuser With Essential Oils for Mold

You can also use essential oils to prevent mold growth by diffusing them in your home. This is especially effective in areas where mold commonly grows, such as the kitchen and bathroom.

To diffuse essential oils, add a few drops of the oil to a diffuser filled with water. Turn on the diffuser and let it run for 30 minutes to an hour. You can do this several times a day.

You can also add a few drops of essential oil to a spray bottle filled with water. Use this solution to mist surfaces in your home. This is especially effective in areas where mold commonly grows, such as the bathroom and kitchen.

The Best Essential Oils for Mold and Mildew

Now, let’s look at the specific essential oils that are effective at killing or preventing mold from growing.

Clove Oil

Plant Therapy Organic Clove Bud Essential Oil

Clove oil is thought to be effective against mold because it contains eugenol. Eugenol is a compound that has been shown to kill mold spores.

In addition, clove oil has antimicrobial properties. This means that it can help to prevent the growth of mold and mildew.

Of all the essential oils, clove oil has been studied the most for antifungal properties. The results of those studies show that clove oil is very effective for this purpose. In fact, it’s been shown to be almost as effective as commercial cleaning products.

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Cinnamon Oil

NOW Essential Oils, Cinnamon Cassia Oil

Cinnamon oil is another essential oil that contains eugenol. In addition, cinnamon oil has strong antifungal properties. This makes it effective for preventing the growth of mold and mildew as well as killing existing mold spores.

Some studies have proven cinnamon to be the most effective essential oil at preventing mold growth in food. Because of these qualities, cinnamon can be used as an alternative to food preservatives.

Cinnamon oil also has a pleasant scent, which can help to freshen your home and make it smell great.

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Tea Tree Oil

Edens Garden Tea Tree Essential Oil

Tea tree oil is a popular essential oil that’s known for its antimicrobial properties. This makes it effective for preventing the growth of mold and mildew as well as killing existing mold spores.

In addition, tea tree oil has strong antifungal properties. Overall, tea tree oil is thought to be comparable to commercial antimicrobial products.

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Thyme Oil

Plant Therapy Thyme Linalool Essential Oil

Thyme oil is an essential oil with strong antimicrobial properties. This makes it effective for preventing the growth of mold and mildew as well as killing existing mold spores.

In addition, thyme oil has strong antifungal properties. It’s been shown to be effective against a variety of different fungi, including black mold.

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Thieves Oil

Thieves Vitality Essential Oil by Young Living

Thieves oil is a blend of several different essential oils, including clove, lemon, cinnamon, eucalyptus, and rosemary. This blend is thought to be effective against mold because it contains several different compounds with antimicrobial properties making it another great option of essential oils for mold prevention and removal.

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Eucalyptus Oil

Aura Cacia Discover 100% Pure Eucalyptus Essential Oil

Eucalyptus oil can be used as a natural cleaner and is known for its powerful antimicrobial qualities. While it does not kill mold, Eucalyptus oil is thought to prevent mold from spreading through the production of new spores.

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Lavender Oil

NOW Essential Oils, Lavender Oil

Like eucalyptus oil, lavender oil can be used to prevent the growth or spread of mold, but it will not kill mold. The scent of lavender is rather strong. Some people like it and others don’t. Depending on your preferences, the scent may also make lavender a good choice for use in your home.

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Lemon Oil

Plant Therapy Organic Lemon Essential Oil

Lemon oil is known for its strong citrus scent. This makes it a good choice for use in your home if you want to freshen the air. In addition, lemon oil has antifungal properties that make it effective against mold and mildew.

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Peppermint Oil

doTERRA Peppermint Essential Oil

Peppermint oil is refreshing and has a strong minty scent. It is often used as a natural cleaner because it’s so effective at killing mold and mildew. Studies have shown peppermint to be very effective at killing fungi.

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Situations When Essential Oils for Mold Won’t Work

Essential oils can be a great way to prevent or remove mold in the air or on solid surfaces. However, mold may exist in the walls, floors, or porous surfaces. In these cases, essential oils will not be effective.

Also, essential oils are most effective for dealing with small occurrences of mold. If you have a large area that’s infested with mold, using essential oils as a DIY solution is not the best approach.

If you suspect that mold is growing in your home, it’s important to have a professional inspection. A professional can determine the extent of the problem and recommend the best course of action.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can essential oils get rid of mold?

Essential oils are most effective for preventing the spread or growth of mold. Certain essential oils may be able to kill surface-level mold or mildew, but a professional solution is the only way to completely eradicate a serious mold infestation.

What essential oils prevent mold growth?

Yes, essential oils can be used to prevent mold growth. Some essential oils, like cinnamon, have properties that make them effective at preventing the growth of mold and mildew.

Does tea tree oil help with mold?

Yes, tea tree oil can help with mold. This essential oil is known for its antimicrobial properties, making it effective at preventing the growth of mold and mildew as well as killing existing mold spores.

Is peppermint oil good for mold?

Yes, peppermint oil is good for mold. This essential oil has a strong minty scent and is known for its ability to kill mold and mildew.

Can essential oils purify the air?

Essential oils can be used to purify the air and freshen the scent of a room. However, they will not remove mold from the air. However, they may prevent the growth or spread of any existing mold.

Top Pick

Plant Therapy 7 & 7 Essential Oils Set

Includes 7 top single oils and 7 powerful synergy blends
Great for people new to essential oils or anyone looking to restock
They can help with relaxation, focus, tension and sleep.

Check Price on Amazon

Final Thoughts on Essential Oils for Mold

Essential oils can be a great way to prevent or remove mold in your home. However, it’s important to keep in mind that they are most effective for minor occurrences of mold and will not completely eliminate serious mold issues. If you suspect you have a significant mold problem, it’s best to contact a professional for an inspection.

With a number of essential oils for mold options listed above to choose from for your minor mold cleaning needs it will be easy to find one that will work for you.

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