Bleach
Bleach is fine on hard, non porous surfaces like tiles and glass. On plaster, wood and silicone it removes the colour but does not reach the roots, so the mould grows back. Never mix bleach with other cleaners, especially anything containing ammonia or acid, because it gives off dangerous gas.
White vinegar
Undiluted white vinegar is a mild acid that can kill some surface mould and is gentler to use. It is a reasonable option for small patches, but it smells, can damage natural stone and is not a cure for mould in plaster.
Mould remover sprays
Products sold as mould removers are designed for the job and are usually the best DIY choice. Follow the label, ventilate the room and wear gloves, a mask and eye protection.
Safe DIY method for a small patch
- Open windows and keep children and pets out
- Wear gloves, a well fitted mask and goggles
- Spray or wipe, do not dry brush
- Wipe away with a damp disposable cloth and bag it
- Dry the area completely
- Fix the cause: ventilation, heating or leak
When DIY is not enough
- The patch is bigger than about a square metre
- It comes back within weeks of cleaning
- It is in several rooms
- Someone in the home has asthma or a weak immune system
- There are signs of damp: blown plaster, tide marks, patches after rain
In those cases a proper mould treatment with the cause fixed is the cheaper option in the long run.
Last reviewed 15 November 2026 by the Home Damp and Mould team. Read our editorial policy.