Mold has proven to be harmful to health. Long-term exposure also triggers serious problems in the respiratory system. That’s why many people focus on finding the most effective mold killer. Instead of using harsh chemicals, utilizing essential oils for mold is a safer and eco-friendly solution.
For those of you who are sensitive to certain chemicals, killing molds with essential oils is certainly more convenient. Aside from being skin-friendly, essential oils also have a refreshing aroma. So, let’s discuss what the most effective essential oils for mold exposure are.
Table of Contents
1. Cinnamon Oil
Cinnamon is a type of spice that is widely used in food or drink. It offers a myriad of benefits, both for health and beauty. Besides, cinnamon is one of the best essential oils for mold. As a mold killer, it has antibacterial and anti-microbial properties. Because of that ability, cinnamon can be used as a natural food preservative too.
Based on research released by the International Journal of Food Microbiology, the use of cinnamon oil as a food preservative can suppress the growth of mold and bacteria for 60 days. This result is called the best compared to other types of essential oils.
Cinnamon itself is a plant species that has the scientific name Laurus Cinnamomum. This plant belongs to the botanical family Lauraceae. Originating from South Asia, cinnamon is very easy to find in Asian countries.
There are more than 100 varieties of cinnamon spread throughout the world. However, Ceylon cinnamon and Chinese cinnamon are the most famous varieties. The active ingredients in cinnamon oil are cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, methyl eugenol, and phellandrene.
2. Eucalyptus Oil
It’s one of the best diffusing essential oils for mold that offer a soothing aroma. Eucalyptus oil or better known as cajuput oil is the result of steam distillation from the leaves and twigs of eucalyptus trees. After going through the distillation process, eucalyptus oil will release a chemical called cineole.
Further, this essential oil has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. Because of that, eucalyptus oil is often used in products such as antiperspirant, soap, cosmetic, health products, and perfumes. Other than that, this oil is an effective household disinfectant to fight mold as well.
To kill mold with this essential oil, provide ethyl and methyl alcohol. The measure is 95% for ethyl and 5% for methyl. Mix both with 1 tbsp of eucalyptus oil and 2 cups of water. Spray the solution onto a surface overgrown with mold or mildew. Leave it to dry, then wipe or brush the mold until it’s completely gone.
3. Clove Oil
The clove offers a peculiar and calming aroma. This plant is commercially grown, especially in Indonesia, Tanzania, Bangladesh, Madagascar, and Sri Lanka. Clove has a scientific name called Eugenia caryophyllata. This is harvested when the flower buds are still pink and not yet open. After that, the clove flower buds are dried in the sun and ground into powder.
Clove powder is usually processed into essential oils or used as cooking spices. However, this oil is also effective as a mold killer. Aspergillus niger or better known as black mold is very sensitive to clove oil. But, only use this oil to remove mold on a surface that is not porous or easily discolored.
If you want to use clove oil to kill the mold, there are two ways to opt. First, use a tool called a nebulizer or utilizes a spray bottle. Mix the same amount of isopropyl alcohol, water, and clove oil. Put the solution into a spray bottle and use it to get rid of the mold.
4. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is also one of the best essential oils for mold exposure. It has a Latin name Australia melaleuca alternifolia; this oil is not extracted from tea trees which are used as drinks. This essential oil comes from a native Australian tea tree, which has been used for hundreds of years as anti-inflammatory and antiseptic oil.
The benefits of tea tree oil are very abundant, especially for health. However, you can use this oil as a mold killer as well. As one of the best diffusing essential oils for mold, this oil has further antimicrobial and antifungal properties. Therefore, tea tree oil is often used to clean household appliances.
First, mix 3 tablespoons of tea tree oil with 1 glass of water. Add 2 tablespoons vinegar and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Mix well and put the solution into the spray bottle. Then, spray it on kitchen utensils, sink, tables, or toilet, to kill mold and dangerous bacteria.
5. Grapefruit Seed Oil
This oil has a high sensitivity to mold spores. That’s because grapefruit seed oil contains high citric acid, which becomes aggressive when in contact with the mold. You can also use this essential oil to clean household appliances from the mold and harmful bacteria invasion.
First, prepare a basin for the mixture between 1 glass of water and 10 drops of grapefruit seed oil. After that, spray the solution on the surface attacked by the mold. Leave it to dry, and then clean with a brush or cloth.
6. Oregano Oil
When we heard about oregano, what comes to mind is a culinary spice. But keep in mind that this essential oil has many benefits, including antifungals, antioxidant effects, antiviral, and antibacterial.
Oregano oil has also been shown to inhibit the production of aflatoxin, which is released by the Aspergillus mold. To use it as a mold or bacteria cleaning agent, mix 15 drops of oregano oil, 2 cups of water, and isopropyl alcohol to taste.
Put the solution into a spray bottle and use it to clean the mold at home. Spray the area overgrown with mushrooms with this formula. Then let stand for 15 minutes and wipe clean. For severe cases, mix oregano oil with isopropyl alcohol.
7. Thyme Oil
Thyme is a type of spice that is commonly used in Italian pasta sauces. It has a refreshing and aromatic fragrance too. Further, thyme oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties. Therefore, this oil is a great natural antimicrobial, which can be one of the best essential oils for mold. Thyme oil is also said to be a good natural antiseptic in the food and pharmaceutical industry.
When using these essential oils, please protect your hands with gloves. That’s important to prevent skin irritation.