Health Warning
Mold exposure can cause respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and worsen asthma. If you have respiratory conditions, are immunocompromised, or notice health symptoms, consider hiring professionals rather than DIY removal. Always wear proper protection.
Quick Answer
To eliminate mold: First identify and fix the moisture source (this is essential). For small areas on non-porous surfaces, clean with white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide, scrub, rinse, and dry completely. Wear an N95 mask and gloves. For areas over 10 square feet or mold on porous materials, call a professional mold remediation service.
Finding mold in your San Diego home can be alarming. While our region is generally drier than many parts of the country, mold can still thrive in bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and coastal homes where humidity is higher.
The good news: small mold problems on hard surfaces can often be handled yourself with the right approach and precautions. The key is acting quickly, using proper protection, and—most importantly—fixing the moisture problem that allowed mold to grow in the first place.
This guide covers safe DIY mold removal, when to call professionals, and how to prevent mold from returning.
Understanding Mold in San Diego Homes
Mold Needs Moisture
No moisture = no mold. Period. Whether from leaky pipes, condensation, poor ventilation, or high humidity, mold cannot grow without a consistent water source. Eliminating moisture is more important than any cleaning product.
Coastal Humidity Factor
San Diego's coastal areas—La Jolla, Pacific Beach, Ocean Beach, Coronado, Imperial Beach—experience higher humidity, especially in summer months. Homes near the water need extra attention to ventilation and moisture control.
Common Problem Areas
Bathrooms (especially shower grout and ceilings), under kitchen sinks, around window frames with condensation, closets against exterior walls, and laundry rooms are the most common places to find mold in San Diego homes.
When to Call Professional Mold Remediation
Call professionals if:
- Mold covers more than 10 square feet (roughly a 3x3 area)
- Mold is on porous materials (drywall, carpet, insulation, wood)
- Mold is in your HVAC system or ductwork
- The water source was sewage or contaminated water
- You have health symptoms when in the affected area
- Mold keeps returning after cleaning
What You'll Need for DIY Mold Removal
Cleaning Products
- White vinegar (undiluted)
- Hydrogen peroxide (3%)
- Baking soda
- Spray bottle
- Stiff scrub brush
Safety Equipment (Required!)
- N95 respirator mask
- Rubber or nitrile gloves
- Safety goggles (non-vented)
- Old clothes (to dispose after)
💡 Note on Bleach: Despite common advice, the EPA and mold experts now recommend against bleach for mold removal on porous surfaces. While it kills surface mold, it doesn't penetrate to kill roots. Vinegar and hydrogen peroxide are more effective.
Step-by-Step Mold Removal
Identify the Moisture Source
Mold is a symptom of moisture problems. Before cleaning, find the water source: leaky pipes, poor ventilation, condensation, roof leaks, or humidity. Cleaning without fixing the source means mold will return.
Assess the Size and Location
Small areas (under 10 sq ft) on non-porous surfaces can be DIY cleaned. Larger areas, mold on porous materials (drywall, carpet), or mold in HVAC systems require professional remediation.
Protect Yourself
Wear an N95 respirator mask, rubber gloves, and eye protection. Mold spores can cause respiratory problems, especially during cleaning when disturbed. Open windows for ventilation.
Contain the Area
Close doors to other rooms. If possible, seal the area with plastic sheeting. Use a fan pointing out a window to create negative pressure that exhausts spores outside rather than spreading them through your home.
Apply Cleaning Solution
For non-porous surfaces: spray undiluted white vinegar or 3% hydrogen peroxide, let sit 10 minutes, then scrub. For stubborn mold, make a paste of baking soda and water, scrub, then spray with vinegar.
Clean and Rinse Thoroughly
Scrub with a stiff brush, then wipe with clean water. Dispose of cleaning cloths in sealed plastic bags. For textured surfaces like grout, use a toothbrush to get into crevices.
Dry Completely
This is crucial. Use fans, dehumidifiers, or open windows to dry the area completely. Moisture left behind allows mold to regrow. The surface should be bone dry before considering the job done.
Prevent Future Growth
Fix the original moisture problem. Improve ventilation (bathroom fans, kitchen hoods). Use mold-resistant paint in high-humidity areas. Monitor the area over the next few weeks for regrowth.
Preventing Mold in San Diego Homes
Ventilate Properly
Run bathroom fans during and 30 minutes after showers. Use your range hood when cooking. Ensure your dryer vents outside, not into the garage or attic. Consider upgrading to a timer-controlled bathroom fan.
Fix Leaks Immediately
Don't ignore that slow drip under the sink or the water stain on the ceiling. Mold can start growing within 24-48 hours of water exposure. Quick repairs prevent expensive mold problems.
Coastal Home Tips
In La Jolla, Pacific Beach, and other coastal areas, consider a dehumidifier for problem rooms. Keep closets slightly open for air circulation. Use mold-resistant paint in bathrooms and laundry rooms.
Regular Cleaning
Weekly bathroom cleaning prevents soap scum and grime buildup that mold feeds on. Spray shower walls with daily shower cleaner. Squeegee glass doors after each use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kills mold permanently?
For non-porous surfaces, hydrogen peroxide, white vinegar, or commercial mold removers kill mold on contact. However, mold will return if moisture issues aren't fixed. Permanently eliminating mold requires addressing the water source—leaks, condensation, or inadequate ventilation.
Is San Diego too dry for mold?
Not in all areas. While inland San Diego is relatively dry, coastal communities from La Jolla to Imperial Beach experience higher humidity, especially in summer. Bathrooms, kitchens, and poorly ventilated spaces can develop mold anywhere in San Diego.
When should I call a professional for mold?
Call professionals if mold covers more than 10 square feet, if it's in your HVAC system, if it's caused by sewage or contaminated water, if you have health symptoms, or if you're unsure of the source. Professional mold remediation is also required for selling homes with documented mold issues.
How long does it take for mold to grow after water damage?
Mold can begin growing within 24-48 hours of water exposure. This is why it's crucial to dry water damage immediately—whether from leaks, flooding, or even just leaving wet towels on surfaces. Acting fast prevents mold from establishing.
Need Deep Cleaning After Mold Removal?
After addressing mold, a thorough deep cleaning removes spores from other surfaces. Metla House Cleaning can help restore your home to a healthy, fresh state.
Art Machekin is the founder of Metla House Cleaning. Before starting the company, Art worked as a professional cleaner — hands-on experience that gives him a deep understanding of the techniques and details that matter most in delivering a spotless home.