Mould is a persistent problem in many Sydney homes and businesses, especially given our city’s humid climate and coastal air. Knowing how to remove mould the right way is not just about appearances—it’s crucial for protecting your health and your property’s structure. At Sydney Cleaning Experts, we want you to feel confident tackling mould and empowered to get the best results, so here are the six essential steps you should follow to remove mould safely and effectively.

Why Remove Mould Promptly?

Mould can harm your health, compromise your indoor air quality, and damage building materials if left unchecked. Mould spores trigger allergies, respiratory issues, and can deteriorate timber, paint, and wall linings. That’s why it’s vital to remove mould thoroughly and prevent it from returning.

Step 1: Identify the Source and Extent of the Mould

The first step to successfully remove mould in your Sydney property is to pinpoint the source. Is it a leaking pipe, poor ventilation, or rising damp? Mould does not appear out of nowhere—it needs moisture to thrive.

Inspect walls, ceilings, floors, and hidden corners.
Look in areas with recent water damage or high humidity, like bathrooms and laundries.
Use a torch and even moisture meters for hard-to-spot growth.
Check cupboards, basements, subfloors, and behind furniture.

By identifying how widespread the problem is and whether it’s surface level or deeper, you can plan the best approach to remove mould.

Step 2: Gear Up for Safety

Personal safety is paramount when you remove mould. Mould spores and cleaning chemicals can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory system.

Essential protective gear:

P2 or N95-rated respirator mask
Safety goggles
Rubber gloves
Long-sleeve clothing (that can be washed in hot water after use)

Ventilate the area as much as possible by opening windows and doors, but avoid circulating spores to other rooms by sealing off the workspace where practical.

Step 3: Contain and Prepare the Area

Mould spores spread easily. Take these steps:

Use plastic sheeting and painter’s tape to seal off unaffected areas.
Remove valuables, electronics, and items unaffected by mould.
Cover air vents and turn off HVAC systems.
Set up old towels or plastic at room thresholds to trap escaping spores.

This preparation is crucial, so you don’t inadvertently spread mould as you clean.

Step 4: Clean and Remove Mould Thoroughly

Now it’s time for action. The actual method to remove mould depends on surface type—non-porous (tiles, glass) vs. porous (gypsum, timber).

General steps:

Dry Brush or Vacuum
For dry, loose mould, gently brush or HEPA vacuum the surface, capturing spores. Never use a standard household vacuum, as it will spread spores.
Apply Cleaning Solution
- For hard surfaces, use a dedicated mould remover, hospital-grade disinfectant, or a solution of vinegar (80% vinegar, 20% water).
- For porous materials, removal or professional treatment may be necessary, as mould can grow deep within.
Scrub Surface
- Use a stiff brush or scouring pad to scrub the area.
- Pay extra attention to grout, cracks, and joins.
Rinse and Repeat
Wipe down surfaces with clean water and disposable cloths. Repeat as needed until the surface is clear.
Dispose of Materials
- All cleaning materials should be double-bagged and thrown away.
- Wash contaminated clothing in hot water separately.

Note: Avoid bleach, as it’s often not as effective at killing mould on porous surfaces and can create harmful fumes.

Step 5: Dry and Dehumidify

Thoroughly drying the cleaned area is the best way to stop mould coming back.

Use fans and dehumidifiers to lower moisture levels.
Open windows and encourage airflow when conditions are dry.
Check for hidden dampness with a moisture metre and repeat drying as necessary.

Remember, unless moisture is eliminated, the effort to remove mould will only be temporary.

Step 6: Prevent Future Mould Growth

After you remove mould, prevention is vital to maintain a healthy home environment in Sydney.

Key prevention tips:

Repair leaks in roofing, plumbing, and walls.
Keep humidity below 60%—use exhaust fans and consider a dehumidifier, especially in wet seasons.
Regularly clean and inspect areas prone to dampness, like bathrooms and basements.
Improve ventilation, especially after showers, cooking, or drying clothes indoors.

Use moisture barriers where needed, such as under floors or behind walls subject to condensation.

When to Call the Professionals

While minor outbreaks of surface mould can be handled by a diligent DIY approach, larger infestations (generally those covering more than 1m²), recurring mould, or mould caused by sewage or major water damage should always be removed by a professional. Mould experts use advanced equipment like HEPA air scrubbers, industrial dehumidifiers, and specialized protective gear to remove mould thoroughly and safely, ensuring your property and family are protected for the long term.

Sydney Cleaning Experts—Here to Help You Remove Mould

Mould can be stubborn, but with the right assessment, preparation, and cleaning methods, you can remove mould effectively from your Sydney home or business. If you need advice, an inspection, or complete professional mould removal, don’t hesitate to contact Sydney Cleaning Experts. We’re dedicated to making your indoor environment safe, healthy, and mould-free—now, and for the future.