How to Clean Mold and Mildew From Concrete

How to Clean Mold and Mildew From Concrete

Concrete can develop mold and mildew stains when it is repeatedly exposed to moisture, humidity, shade and poor drying conditions. This can occur on basement floors, patios, walkways and other concrete surfaces indoors or outdoors.

Because concrete is porous, mold and mildew staining can sometimes be more difficult to clean than staining on smooth, nonporous surfaces.

Why Does Mold and Mildew Grow on Concrete?

Concrete can absorb and retain moisture, particularly in areas that receive little sunlight or airflow.

Common contributing factors include:

• High humidity

• Rain and standing water

• Poor drainage

• Shaded areas

• Plumbing leaks

• Basement moisture

• Condensation

• Water intrusion

Dirt and other organic residue on the concrete can also contribute to conditions where mold and mildew staining develops.

Step 1: Address the Moisture Problem

Before cleaning, determine why the concrete is remaining damp.

For outdoor concrete, check for standing water, poor drainage or areas that rarely receive sunlight.

For indoor concrete, look for:

• Plumbing leaks

• Water entering through walls or floors

• High basement humidity

• Condensation

• Poor ventilation

If the moisture problem remains, mold and mildew may return after cleaning.

Step 2: Remove Loose Dirt and Debris

Before applying a cleaner, remove loose dirt, leaves and other debris from the concrete.

This allows the mold and mildew cleaner to make better contact with the stained surface.

Step 3: Apply Mold & Mildew Cleaner

Natural Armor All-Natural Mold & Mildew Cleaner is a ready-to-use, bleach-free formula designed to help remove mold and mildew stains from compatible surfaces, including concrete.

Apply the cleaner directly to the affected concrete according to the product directions.

Because the formula is ready to use, there's no mixing or dilution required for normal application.

Step 4: Allow the Cleaner to Work

Concrete is more porous and textured than surfaces such as glass or ceramic tile.

Allow Natural Armor Mold & Mildew Cleaner the recommended contact time so the formula can work on the staining before you begin scrubbing or wiping the area.

Always follow the product-label directions.

Step 5: Scrub the Concrete if Needed

For stubborn staining, use an appropriate brush to gently scrub the affected concrete.

Textured and porous surfaces may require more agitation than smooth surfaces.

Older or deeply embedded staining may also require additional treatment according to the product directions.

Step 6: Allow the Concrete to Dry

After completing the cleaning process, allow the concrete to dry thoroughly.

For outdoor surfaces, improving drainage and reducing standing water can help prevent recurring problems.

For indoor concrete, ventilation and humidity control may be particularly important.

Can You Clean Mold and Mildew From Concrete Without Bleach?

Yes. Bleach isn't the only option for cleaning mold and mildew stains from concrete.

Natural Armor Mold & Mildew Cleaner contains no bleach, providing an alternative for homeowners who prefer a bleach-free cleaning product.

Its all-natural formula is ready to use and features a lemon scent.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Concrete

Mold and mildew staining can occur on concrete in several locations.

Indoor concrete surfaces may include:

• Basement floors

• Garage floors

• Utility areas

Outdoor concrete surfaces may include:

• Patios

• Walkways

• Steps

• Other compatible concrete areas

Natural Armor Mold & Mildew Cleaner is designed for compatible indoor and outdoor applications.

How to Help Prevent Mold and Mildew on Concrete

After cleaning, focus on reducing the moisture that allowed the problem to develop.

• Improve outdoor drainage

• Remove standing water

• Repair plumbing leaks

• Improve basement ventilation

• Control indoor humidity

• Address water intrusion

• Keep concrete surfaces clean

• Allow wet areas to dry thoroughly

Cleaning removes the existing surface staining, while controlling moisture helps reduce the conditions that allow mold and mildew to return.