When mould strikes, it is almost impossible to prevent it from spreading around the home and to kill it completely. Black mould is not only an inconvenience, it looks unsightly, smells unpleasant and can pose a serious health risk if you inhale the toxic airborne spores.  

Steam cleaning is known to be a deeply sanitising method for cleaning, but can it kill mould? Read on to find out what steam cleaning is, if it can kill black mould and when it is time to call in the mould removal experts.  

What is Steam Cleaning?

Steam cleaning uses the vapours from ultra-heated water to clean and sanitise surfaces, clothing, furniture and carpets. The vapours not only remove grease, grime and odours but may also destroy germs, viruses and micro-organisms. Steam cleaning is also known to penetrate the protective coatings of pathogens to kill any bacteria and prevent them from resurfacing.  

The steam water is heated to well over 100°C to break up grime and dirt as well as extract any germs or bacteria that is attached to the surface area. Mould does not react well with high water temperatures, making it a popular, natural and safe option for removing mould on carpets, furniture and surfaces.  

Does Steam Cleaning Kill Black Mould?  

Yes, but not entirely. The high temperature of the steam vapour is enough to extract and remove the mould, especially from hard to reach places and under carpets. It also provides a safe alternative to bleach and other chemicals.  

Mould is a severe problem when it begins to form colonies around the home, usually in areas with high levels of exposure to moisture, humidity and spaces that lack adequate airflow. It’s more than a bacteria, it’s a fungus with the ability to release trillions of spores in a matter of days. Steam cleaning is a great combative technique for removing mould, but without professional treatment, it’s unlikely that steam cleaning alone will kill it permanently.  

Considerations of Steam Cleaning to Kill Black Mould 

Steam cleaning is a great method of cleaning and extracting grime and bacteria on surfaces, but it is not enough to completely eradicate mould spores permanently. Some steam cleaners don’t heat the water to a high enough temperature to remove entire colonies and all the spores. It may also risk leaving behind a damp residue to encourage new mould spores to grow and spread, allowing the mould to return quicker than expected.  

Other steam cleaning methods hold hot enough temperatures to kill the mould without leaving behind a damp residue but this may cause damage to delicate fabrics and carpets. 

The Verdict  

Some steam cleaners hold value as a safe, gentle and chemical-free way to clean surfaces and remove some forms of bacteria and pathogens. Because the mycotoxin spores of black mould are easily aggravated, rapidly growing and toxic, it is not always possible to kill mould spores permanently.  

If you want black mould to be permanently removed from your household, it is best to reach out to a professional mould removal specialist for a treatment and prevention plan. Some mould removal services can also take care of airconditioning cleaning, water damage services and structural drying and dehumidification to permanently remove black mould.  

How to Prevent Black Mould?  

The best way to manage and prevent mould growth is through moisture and humidity control. Here are some helpful ways to prevent black mould from growing around your home:  

• Use a dehumidifier to draw moisture out of the air  
• Clean spills and water damage immediately and never allow water to sit for a prolonged period of time  
• Increase air circulation around the home  
• In humid locations set your air-conditioner to ‘dry mode’ 
• Regularly clean out air-conditioners and dehumidifiers  

When to Call a Mould Removal Professional  

If you are afraid of mould becoming a problem in your home and are looking for a long-term solution, be sure to call upon a professional team to help you. The MouldMen team will inspect, treat and provide you with a Mould Management and Prevent Plan to ensure that your home is kept safe and free from black mould. Call us on 1300 60 59 60 to book your free inspection today.