How to Remove Mold on Stainless Steel
Posted by Certified Material Testing Products on May 17, 2023
Stainless steel is a core material both in industrial and household settings. Unfortunately, like many other surfaces, it can also become moldy when exposed to moisture.
Whether you're looking to sanitize your lab equipment ready for another experiment or want to tackle stubborn mold growth on home appliances, this guide will teach you how to effectively, safely, and consistently eliminate mold from stainless steel surfaces.
How to remove mold from stainless steel surfaces
Stainless steel is a non-porous material and not typically prone to mold. With regular, thorough cleaning, it's unlikely that mold spores will accumulate on stainless steel surfaces.
That said, in the event that mold does appear on stainless steel due to moisture, follow this guide to clean the affected area.
You will need the following:
- Safety equipment and protective clothing
- Hydrogen peroxide or white vinegar
- Paper towels
- Soft-bristled scrubbing brush
- Clean cloth
- Table salt (optional)
Removing mold on stainless steel: step by step
What if I don't have hydrogen peroxide or white vinegar?
While the best way to clean mold from a service is with hydrogen peroxide or white vinegar, there are alternatives if you don't have either solution readily available.
Baking soda is an excellent all-around cleaning solution that can effectively remove mold from stainless steel surfaces. Simply mix the baking soda with warm water and apply it to the mold as you would another cleaning solution.
Tea tree oil also works as a disinfectant and can be used to remove mold in a pinch.
How do I prevent mold?
Preventing mold from growing requires tackling the root cause of the problem. Here are some of our top tips to keep your surfaces mold-free all year round.
- Keep surfaces dry: moisture is the main culprit of mold growth. It's important to keep surfaces dry when not in use. Always wipe down surfaces after using them and tackle spills immediately.
- Clean often: Clean all surfaces with cleaning products regularly. Remove any grime or dirt, as organic matter is a breeding ground for mold. A disinfectant such as hydrogen peroxide or white vinegar is excellent at eliminating bacteria.
- Ventilate properly: Air circulation is crucial to eliminate the warm, humid environment in which mold thrives. Consider leaving windows open for a certain amount of time each day. Alternatively, use a fan to encourage airflow.
- Keep humidity in check: A dehumidifier is a great way to reduce the humidity and control the moisture levels of a room. Ensure you clean your dehumidifier regularly to prevent mold growth within the unit.
- Tackle leaks as soon as they happen: Water damage is the perfect opportunity for mold to grow. Combat this by tackling leaks as soon as they occur and wiping any excess moisture up as quickly as possible.
Where can I find products for tackling mold?
Certified MTP has a wide range of products perfect for tackling mold in industrial and household settings. From goggles and gloves to scrub brushes and hydrogen peroxide, our selection of high-quality equipment makes it easy to deal with mold spores on all surface types.