Bleach can whiten and clean, but it does not prevent mold from recurring.

Bleach and bleach-based products are chemically unable to perform the three necessary steps for effective and lasting mold and mildew removal:

1.) Clean, disinfect, and kill mold down to the roots
2.) Remove staining and restore cosmetic damage
3.) Protect surfaces from future growth via antimicrobial (mold-proof) coating

Bleach (active ingredient: Sodium Hypochlorite) can remove discoloration caused by mold, but may leave behind the micro-flora that enable mold to return to exactly the same spot. Bleach won’t destroy the spores - essentially, seeds - underneath. Only EPA-registered mold and mildew disinfectants labeled as a fungicide and mildewstat will do the job. In short, only the right kinds of disinfectant and protectant products, used in combination, can both rid mold and keep it from recurring.

The American Lung Association estimates that one-third to one-half of all structures in the U.S. have conditions conducive to mold and mildew growth. While estimates are higher in warm, moist climates, mold problems can happen most anywhere. Even typically dry, hot states like Arizona are breeding grounds for mold in wall cavities, where condensation from non-stop air conditioner use comes in contact with warmer surfaces closer to the home’s exterior.

The old adage “Cleanliness is next to godliness” could well read “Cleanliness is next to dollar-li-ness” when it comes to mold in the home. Fixing mold damage can skyrocket into the thousands, factoring in removal, home inspections and potential litigation if you’re a home-seller or landlord. Even the most frequently cleaned, newest and best-built homes can become mold breeding grounds.

All it takes is one mold spore spreading like wildfire. Following a flood, toilet leak, or even the smallest bathtub spill, mold and mildew can take root within 48 hours, virtually anyplace inside or outside a home. Exposure to mold may cause or worsen conditions like asthma, hay fever, or other allergies.  Milder symptoms from mold exposure include cough, congestion, runny nose, and eye irritation, but nasty types of “black mold” like Stachybotrys can result in bleeding of the lungs or worse.

Common misconceptions about Mold:

MYTH : "I live and build in the dry climates of California, Nevada, and Arizona so I don't need to be concerned."
FACT: The majority of mold issues are not related to weather factors. In fact, Nevada, Arizona, and California rank 5th, 6th, and 7th in a recent ARMR (American Risk Management Resources) study. Louisiana is not in the top 10.

MYTH: "If I can't see the mold, it's not there."
FACT: Just because mold or mildew appears to be gone doesn't mean it isn't lurking on or under the surface. It's possible to remove the fungal appearance but leave spores.

MYTH: "It's important to eliminate all of the mold spores within my home to remove a mold problem."
FACT: This is impossible since mold spores are inborn and air-borne. They are part of our environment and will continue to infiltrate your home. A more achievable goal is to reduce mold spore growth by applying an antimicrobial (mold-proof barrier) to the surface. This will help reduce growth.

Experts and Third Party Information: