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General Application Instructions
Tips for Wood, Vinyl, and Aluminum Siding
Concrete and Masonry
Deck and Patio
Kitchen and Bathroom
Attics and crawl spaces
General Application Instructions
1. Apply MoldZyme® using any of the following methods: MoldZyme® Spray Bottle, pressure washer, other type of high pressure equipment, pump up garden sprayer (chemical sprayer), atomizer/fogger, bucket and sponge, brush, roller, etc. Agitate (scrub) the surface with any kind of scrub brush, broom, or toothbrush. This will help work the enzymes into the surface for a deep clean and help with the removal of tough stains.
2. Allow MoldZyme® to sit for 15-20 minutes
3. Rinse with a garden hose, pressure washer, or simply wipe off surface with wet cloth or towels for interior applications.
4. If you are painting over the treated surface, simply allow the surface to dry after rinsing MoldZyme® form surface
Tips for Wood, Vinyl, and Aluminum Siding
1. For large areas, the MoldZyme® Hose Attachment, pressure washer, or pump up garden sprayer is the easiest application method.
2. Agitate areas of heavy build up and allow the recommended dwell time.
3. Vinyl and aluminum have a tendency to stain more than wood. Strong agitation and a rinse with a pressure washer or high pressure hose will help with tough stains.
Concrete and Masonry
1. Concrete and masonry are very porous which allows mold and mildew spores to penetrate deeper into the surface. For best results, after applying MoldZyme® scrub the surface to work the enzymes further into the surface and rinse with a pressure washer or high pressure hose.
2. Re-application may be beneficial in areas of heavy growth.
Deck and Patio
1. Horizontal surfaces are problem areas for mold and mildew. The easiest application method for these areas is a MoldZyme® Hose Attachment, garden sprayer (chemical sprayer), or for small areas a MoldZyme® Spray Bottle.
2. Apply MoldZyme® liberally and agitate with a scrub brush or deck broom. Agitation will help MoldZyme® to penetrate through the built up layers of grime to get to the problem area on the surface. Allow the recommended dwell time and rinse with a hose or pressure washer.
Kitchen and Bathroom
1. Most problem areas in kitchens, bathrooms, and other interior spaces are fairly small and localized. The MoldZyme® Spray Bottle is the easiest application method for these problem areas. However for larger interior applications a pump up garden or chemical sprayer works extremely well.
2. Apply MoldZyme® and agitate with a scrub brush or tooth brush, allow the recommended dwell time and wipe away.
3. Mold and mildew are extremely hard to remove from caulking. In severe cases it is best to replace the affected caulking.
4. MoldZyme® is safe to use on or around surfaces where food will be prepared.
Attics and crawl spaces
1. These problem areas are difficult to treat with bleach based products due to the toxic fumes produced in enclosed, poorly ventilated, areas. MoldZyme® does not produce any toxic fumes and is a safe and effective solution for these areas.
2. MoldZyme® can be applied with a spray bottle, pump up garden sprayer or chemical fogger, or fogged.
3. MoldZyme® should be applied to the affected areas, scrubbed, left the proper dwell time and wiped or rinsed from the surface.
4. Fogging MoldZyme® is an effective method for treating airborne spores, odors, or treating very large areas where additional moisture is unwanted. This is also a very popular method to clean ventilation ducts in highly contaminated areas or where there has been fire or smoke damage.
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Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Mold
The Truth About Toxic Mold
The Science of Clean: A Look at Enzymes
Childhood Asthma: Could Bleach and Tap Water Make Your Child Sick?
Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Mold
Removal and Didn't Know Who to Ask
Everyone at one time or another will encounter mold. It grows in our homes, our lawns, our offices, and it?s even in some of the foods we eat. If it is in your home, you?ve got a problem. Evaluating your mold situation is crucial to safe and complete mold clean-up. Some mold problems require a specialist, while others can be tackled with proper equipment. If you are concerned about your health and safety, it is best to call a mold remediation specialist to handle the clean-up for you. Small mold projects, like cleaning mildew from a bathroom, can be done safely and easily with the right cleaners.
What is Mold?
Molds are tiny microscopic organisms that digest organic matter and reproduce by releasing spores. They are most often associated with damp, musty locations such as bathrooms, basements and attics. There are over 100,000 species of mold. Mold travels through the air as tiny spores which like to make their home in wet areas, where they will breed. Molds are fungi. Fungi are coenocytic organisms composed of masses of tubes or filaments, called hyphae. Fungi are heterotrophic, they do not produce their own food like plants do. They must get their food from their environment. They get their food by secreting digestive enzymes to dissolve organic and inorganic food materials. They then absorb the soluble products from digestion. In nature, mold helps decompose or break-down leaves, wood and other plant debris. Molds become a problem when they go where they are not wanted and digest materials such as our homes.
Why is Mold Growing There?
There is a moisture problem. Mold can?t grow without water. That?s why it often finds its way into your tub or your bath tiles. It?s wet. The first step to controlling mold is always to control the moisture problem. Moisture can come from condensation, leaks, drainage back ups, improper water flow, storms, burst pipes, improper construction, etc. If you have a ?mystery? mold spring up, there is probably a new moisture problem you weren?t aware of.
Mold must have something to grow and feed on. Surfaces like cloth, carpet, drywall, or wood are susceptible. Mold thrives on organic surfaces in stale environments. Poor air circulation traps the spores in one area and prevents moisture from drying. Damp stale areas such as attics and crawl spaces often have wooden beams or insulation that can feed the mold.
Before you go to battle, consider the Four Factors of Mold:
The Fungal Biomass
This is the mold you see. Mold comes in every color, texture, and style imaginable. A Mold Test Kit is the only sure way to know what kind of mold is growing. The color and appearance can be difficult to differentiate because of the variety of molds. When the media use the terms "Black Mold" or "Toxic Mold," they are usually referring to Stachbotrys. Both media terms are misleading, because many molds are black and many molds produce toxins. Further, Stachbotrys is not always black, but is sometime green, gray, or brown, depending upon its food source.
Stachybotrys has the ability to produce mycotoxins that are extremely toxic, suspected carcinogens, and immunosuppressive. Exposure to these mycotoxins can occur through inhalation, ingestion, and dermal exposure. . Long term exposure has shown that Stachybotrys and Chaetomium can destroy the myelin sheath, leading to autoimmune disease. These are the only two fungi that can also be linked to MCS (Multiple Chemical Sensitivity).
Penicillium fungi are commonly found in soil, food, cellulose, grains, paint, carpet, wallpaper, interior fiberglass duct insulation, and decaying vegetation. This fungi has been linked to common illnesses such as ear infections, pneumonia, and urinary tract infections. Penicillium infections are most commonly exhibited in immunosuppressed individuals. An indication of infection is the appearance of papules that resemble acne on the face, trunk, and extremities.
Fusarium is a common soil fungus and inhabitant on a wide array of plants. This fungi is often found in humidifiers and has been isolated from water-damaged carpets and a variety of other building materials. Human exposure may occur through ingestion of contaminated grains and possibly through the inhalation of spores. Fusarium are frequently involved with eye, skin, and nail infections.
Cladosporium is pigmented dark green to black in the front and black on the reverse with a velvety to powdery texture. One of the most commonly isolated from indoor and outdoor air, Cladosporium are found on decaying plants, woody plants, food, straw, soil, paint, textiles, and the surface of fiberglass duct liner in the interior of supply ducts. These fungi are the causative agents of skin lesions, keratitis, nail fungus, sinusitis, asthma, and pulmonary infections. More commonly, it is a more causative factor for intrinsic asthma.
The Odor / VOCs
Volatile Organic Compounds or VOCs are are organic chemical compounds that have high enough vapor pressures enter the atmosphere. This means they are in the air we breathe. VOCs are a by product of mold growth. When mold digests organic matter, such as drywall, it releases VOCs into your home. When the mold blooms and releases spores into the air, those particles can also contribute to the moldy smell. In short, if you can smell a mildewy or moldy odor, there is mold contaminating your air.
Mycotoxins
The dangerous by-product of mold, the thing that makes you sick, is called a mycotoxin. A Mycotoxin is a toxin produced by mushrooms, molds, and yeasts. Where there is more fungal growth, there are higher mycotoxin levels. Toxins vary greatly in their severity. Some fungi produce severe toxins only under specific conditions, while some are lethal, some weaken the immune system without producing symptoms specific to that toxin, some act as allergens or irritants, and some have no known effect on humans.
Mycotoxins may cause a variety of short-term as well as long-term adverse health effects. These range from an immediate toxic response and immune-suppression to potential long-term carcinogenic effects. Symptoms include dermatitis, recurring cold and flu-like symptoms, burning sore throat, headaches and excessive fatigue, diarrhea, and impaired or altered immune function. The ability of the body to fight off infectious diseases may be weakened resulting in opportunistic infections. Because these symptoms may also be caused by many other diseases, misdiagnoses of mycotoxin exposures are common. Occupational or building-related exposures to mycotoxins through inhalation are slowly being recognized as a major indoor air quality problem. Generally, removal of causative agents, the mold and mildew, is necessary.
Spores
Mold spreads by creating reproductive cells called spores and sending them into the environment.
Mold spores are too small to detect with the naked eye. They are everywhere around us and you cannot avoid being exposed to them.
Mold spores travel in the air and attach to people's skin, clothing, shoes, shopping bags and belongings. Other ways spores can enter your home invisibly are: through open doors and windows, through your home's heating, ventilation and air conditioning system, or on the anything that comes from outside.
Once spores enter, they can settle onto carpeting or other surfaces inside your home. You cannot keep spores out of your home, but regular home cleaning and maintenance often can prevent mold problems before they arise.
When mold spores enter your home, they need moisture to begin growing, digesting and destroying. Mold can grow on almost any surface, including; wood, ceiling tiles, wallpaper, paints, carpet, sheet rock, and insulation. Mold grows best when there is a lot of moisture from a leaky, humidity, or flood. There is no way to rid your home of all molds and mold spores. You can control mold growth by keeping your home dry.
How do you clean up mold?
To eliminate mold, you'll first need to eliminate the source. Find out how and where moisture is seeping into your home and deal with it accordingly. Once the moisture problem is solved, you can begin removing the mold.
The mold must be removed completely. Simply spraying chlorine bleach will not make the mold go away. It will not address the spread of mold spores, VOCs, or mycotoxins. The best way to remove mold is with a non-chlorine mold cleaning product. Enzyme-based products have proven both safe and effective at removing mold because of their power to break apart the fungal biomass. Research all products carefully to ensure they are safe for your family, the eco-system, and the surface you are cleaning.
It is in your best interest to invest in a face mask and other protective gear. The last thing you want to do is breathe in mold. A surgical mask, or the type used by carpenters to keep from inhaling saw dust, works well for this task. A long sleeved shirt and long pants should complete the protective outfit. Even the best protective gear is no guarantee that you are safe from the toxins associated with traditional mold removal. A lot of people are hesitant to spray chlorine bleach on their home exteriors, as they should be.
There are a variety of mold cleaners, killers, and inhibitors on the market that employ chemicals. Chlorine is commonly and dangerously used for mold clean-up. We do not recommend it. Chlorine bleaches away the mold stain, but the mold always comes back. It wasn?t fully removed from the surface. Conventional mold clean up methods require protective gear to protect you from both the mold and the chlorine bleaching products. Even a small mold clean up can expose you to hazardous products and by-products. Mold and chlorine have both been linked to poor indoor air quality, allergies, and even childhood asthma. Chlorine bleach is just as toxic as the mold in many cases. New research has linked the residue compounds left by chlorine cleaners, called organochlorides, to a variety of illnesses from respiratory disorders to cancer.
If you are unable to find a non-toxic chlorine-free alternative or the clean up project is large, it is recommended that you contact a mold remediation specialist. Again, it is important to consider the clean-up method as a potential health risk.
The Truth about Toxic Mold
If you?ve got mold in your home, you?ve got a problem. Some people refer to toxic mold or black mold, but the health risk is more complex than just the mold. The mycotoxins, mold spores, and the chemical products traditionally used in the mold remediation process all pose a threat to your health and your indoor air quality.
The dangerous by-product of mold, the thing that makes you sick, is called a mycotoxin. A Mycotoxin is a toxin produced by mushrooms, molds, and yeasts. Where there is more fungal growth, there are higher mycotoxin levels. Toxins vary greatly in their severity. Some fungi produce severe toxins only under specific conditions, while some are lethal, some weaken the immune system without producing symptoms specific to that toxin, some act as allergens or irritants, and some have no known effect on humans.
Mycotoxins may cause a variety of short-term as well as long-term adverse health effects. These range from an immediate toxic response and immune-suppression to potential long-term carcinogenic effects. Symptoms include dermatitis, recurring cold and flu-like symptoms, burning sore throat, headaches and excessive fatigue, diarrhea, and impaired or altered immune function. The ability of the body to fight off infectious diseases may be weakened resulting in opportunistic infections. Because these symptoms may also be caused by many other diseases, misdiagnoses of mycotoxin exposures are common. Occupational or building-related exposures to mycotoxins through inhalation are slowly being recognized as a major indoor air quality problem. Generally, removal of causative agents, the mold and mildew, is necessary.
So when you remove the mold completely, you remove everything that could be making you sick. You don?t want to leave behind residues from a chemical removal product. Conventional methods require protective gear to protect from both the mold and the cleaning method. Even a small mold clean up project, such as removal from a home exterior or outdoor patio, can expose you to hazardous products and by-products.
We recommend an enzyme-based product like EcoDiscoveries® MoldZyme®. The formula penetrates better than bleach to remove the mold and the associated odor. There is no fragrance or odor in the cleaner itself, so there is another problem solved. It is safe enough for indoor and outdoor use, even on fabric, carpet, and drywall. A lot of people are hesitant to spray chlorine bleach on their home exteriors, as they should be. The enzymes in MoldZyme® won?t hurt your landscaping or pollute your ground water.
The Science of Clean: A Look at Enzymes
There is a science to getting a job done right. For cleaning professionals, detergent science keeps their businesses running. The cleaning trends of the last decade have spanned from the war-on-germs to the green-revolution. The next trend could very well be enzyme cleaners. Until recently, the science of enzymes and their power as cleaning agents has stayed under the marketing radar. As cleaning professionals begin harnessing the power of these specialized molecules, they must sell the power of enzymes to a demanding public. But how? Let science explain:
Enzymes are as old as life itself. Enzymes are involved in nearly every chemical and biological process from the decomposition of litter (the enzyme xylanase) to digesting milk (the enzyme lactase). Enzymes are protein catalysts that act in reactions without being used up. They break and form bonds then return to their original state. For spray-on cleaners, this means the enzyme is active on the surface until it is removed or washed away. For cleaning professionals, this means the ?elbow grease? portion is done for you. Soaking a stain in the right enzymes can break it up over time rather than with additional effort.
Knowing the right enzyme to use for the right job is important. Enzymes are often extremely selective. Many enzymes will react only with one substance, such as the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase, which is involved in the metabolism of alcoholic beverages. This enzyme binds only to ethanol. On the other hand, some enzymes are more general and will react with a variety of substances.
Enzyme cleaners that work on a variety of surfaces may have a blend of selective enzymes and/or enzymes that are capable of reacting with multiple substances. For cleaning purposes, an enzyme can break apart the grease, starch, or sugar component of a stain or soil.
"The enzyme protease will help clean most common kitchen messes," says Eric Salo, formulation chemist for EcoDiscoveries®. "On the molecular level, it breaks the chemical bonds, breaking the soil into smaller pieces so it is easier to wash away."
Safety is a major concern for cleaning professionals and their clients. Professionals who employ enzyme cleaners are often making a choice that provides that safety, especially when compared to chemical alternatives.
"Many enzymes are very gentle and completely safe," explains Amanda Mason of Harvard University. "Dangerous enzymes aren't really common. Most of the dangerous materials people work with are small molecules, like acetone and bleach." Both bleach and acetone are common cleaners or solvents that have been cited in industrial poisonings.
All organisms can produce enzymes, and in fact they must produce enzymes to live. "Enzyme-producing bacteria" usually refers to bacteria which have either been genetically engineered to produce great quantities of a particular enzyme or bacteria which have been selected and cultivated by man for their natural ability to produce useful enzymes.
"Since enzymes are such large and complex molecules, scientists can't just build them in the lab," says Mason. "They must instead take advantage of the fact that even the simplest living cell, like a bacterium, is perfectly engineered to be an enzyme factory." Bacteria are used to produce many commercially useful enzymes, like lactase which aids in the digestion of dairy.
Enzymes are isolated from bacteria by complex methods that differ based on the type of enzyme. For bacteria that secrete enzymes, separation may be as simple a running the mixture through a centrifuge to separate the enzyme of interest. However, some bacteria will not release their enzymes and must be "opened" and then purified. The left over parts of the bacteria must be removed through physical and chemical processes.
Plants also provide enzymes for the cleaning industry. Plant cells release their enzymes in a variety of ways. Natural fermentation is one enzyme cultivation method. In contrast to enzymes cultivated from bacteria, this is a simpler science. Often the addition of yeast or other organic material speeds up the fermentation process for large scale enzyme production.
The cleaning power of enzymes is unmatched for odor elimination. Unlike perfumes and fragrances, enzymes actually remove VOCs (volatile organic compounds). The enzymes bind to the odor causing molecules and break them up. Enzyme deodorizers are a great alternative to fragranced products when chemical sensitivity is a concern such as schools, churches, day care centers, and other venues where there are children present.
Enzymes are extremely effective for organic messes such as mold and septic system clean up. Because these organic soils can be hazardous for the professional involved in cleaning them, letting the enzyme do the hard work for you is a safer alternative. The enzyme cleaner can break apart a moldy biomass or a clogged septic tank on the molecular level before any physical effort is exerted. For clogged pipes or other hard-to-reach areas, enzymes can significantly reduce effort.
Most enzyme cleaners are blends for broad spectrum cleaning. The formulators want you to get the most power from each product. However, there are some messes that enzyme cleaners just can?t handle, like petroleum based soils. Enzymes are natural, so they work well on natural soils. Synthetic and petrochemical spills will require a different chemical cleaner.
Because enzyme cleaners are natural, they can degrade. Light, heat, and long term storage can break down the enzymes and reduce their effectiveness. Most enzyme cleaners come in opaque bottles to protect them from light, especially UV light (sun light). Heat can also degrade enzymes. When cleaning with enzyme concentrates, it is best to use cool or tepid water. Temperatures over 140o F will certainly destroy most enzyme cleaners. Enzyme producers report a shelf life of approximately 24 months on their cleaning products. This is an average and may vary by manufacturer. If you are concerned about the stability of bulk purchases, consult the manufacturer directly.
As the cultural consciousness moves toward a concern for safer products, the efficacy of enzyme cleaners makes them a viable alternative to the petrochemical products that are currently under fire. Consumers demand cleaner, faster, and greener. Science is advancing, and new ways to utilize nature are revolutionizing the cleaning industry. Since the science of enzymes is nature, perhaps these cleaners can satisfy the modern market.
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Childhood Asthma: Could Bleach and Tap Water Make Your Child Sick?
The increase in asthma cases illustrates the relationship between the sensitivity of small children and the increased use of petrochemical and other toxic household products. Asthma is an all too common problem in children. EPA reports that since 1980, the biggest growth in asthma cases has been in children under five. Understanding the causes of asthma illustrates the direct relationship between indoor air quality and health.
Chlorine has been linked to childhood and adult asthma. Chlorine, when combined with organic substances such as skin particles, hair follicles, water-borne bacteria, and even sweat and urine, forms a dangerous family of compounds known as Trihalomethanes (THMs). Prolonged inhalation of levels of THMs and such chlorine gases as those found near an indoor swimming pool, will not only cause asthma, but will irritate the sensitive areas in the eyes, nose, and throat, as well. Amazingly, the chemicals found near indoor pools constitute only about 1/4 of the chemical vapors that result from showering in chlorinated water.
Municipal water, chlorine bleach, and chemical whitening agents can all increase the risk of developing asthma because of the THM compounds. Two recent European studies deeply scrutinized these substances in order to determine their negative health effects. Researchers found that nitrogen trichloride, one of the many known THMs, was a main culprit in many forms of occupational asthma. Fortunately, once the study participants were removed from exposure to the harmful chemical, their asthma symptoms showed dramatic improvements over a relatively short period of time. Many of the participants were even relieved of the burden of steroid inhalers. These studies have now proven that these harmful chemicals may actually cause asthma in previously healthy individuals.
Chlorine has long been known as a dangerous chemical, yet we use it in our water supply and homes every day. It is commonly used as a bleaching agent in household bleach such as Clorox. Though it will get whites whiter, this chemical is extremely irritating to the lungs, skin, and mucus membranes. It was used as a powerful poison in World War I. Chlorine is the household chemical most frequently involved in household poisonings. Chlorine also ranks first in causing industrial injuries and deaths resulting from large industrial accidents. The residues left behind, known as organochlorides, have been linked to many cancers including breast cancer.
-Danielle Downs
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Cleaning Up Mold
Cleaning a Moldy Surface
Laundering Moldy Clothes and Fabrics
The Importance of Indoor Air Quality
Cleaning Up Mold
1) Dry the Moisture. To eliminate mold, you'll first need to eliminate the source. Find out how and where moisture is seeping into your home and deal with it accordingly. Once the moisture problem is solved, you can begin removing the mold.
2) Gear Up. It is in your best interest to invest in a face mask and other protective gear. The last thing you want to do is breathe in mold. A surgical mask, or the type used by carpenters to keep from inhaling saw dust, works well for this task. A long sleeved shirt and long pants should complete the protective outfit. Even the best protective gear is no guarantee that you are safe from the toxins associated with traditional mold removal.
3) Remove the Biomass. The mold must be removed completely. Simply spraying chlorine bleach will not make the mold go away. It will not address the spread of mold spores (the "seeds" that regrow), VOCs (volatile organic compounds: the odor molecules that irritate your lungs), or mycotoxins (the toxins that cause allergic reaction). The best way to remove mold is with a non-chlorine mold cleaning product. Enzyme-based products have proven both safe and effective at removing mold because of their power to break apart the fungal biomass.
Apply an enzyme-based cleaner to the surface. Allow it to penetrate the mold for at least 5 minutes. If the biomass is large or if there is a large surface to treat, a cool- temperature fogger is useful. A heat fogger will destroy naturally occurring enzymes. Always use cool water when cleaning mold. After the enzyme cleaner has had ample time to penetrate the mold, wipe or brush the surface to remove the biomass completely.
Research all products carefully to ensure they are safe for your family, the eco-system, and the surface you are cleaning. There are a variety of mold cleaners, killers, and inhibitors on the market that employ chemicals. Chlorine is commonly and dangerously used for mold clean-up. It is not recommend it. Chlorine bleaches away the mold stain, but the mold always comes back. It wasn?t fully removed from the surface. Even a small mold clean up can expose you to hazardous products and by-products. Mold and chlorine have both been linked to poor indoor air quality, allergies, and even childhood asthma. A lot of people are hesitant to spray chlorine bleach on their home exteriors, as they should be. Chlorine bleach is just as toxic as the mold in many cases. New research has linked the residue compounds left by chlorine cleaners, called organochlorides, to a variety of illnesses from respiratory disorders to cancer.
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Cleaning a Moldy Surface
Grout and Tile: Spray on MoldZyme® Ready-to-Use and let sit for at least 5 minutes. Scrub with brush or abrasive sponge. Older grout may have more pores and may require a second application.
Caulk: Remove the caulk. Clean the grout with MoldZyme® and let dry. Reseal the area with fresh caulk. Because of the porosity of caulk, mold that is living in the caulk is encased. It is protected from cleaners. Chlorine bleach may temporarily whiten the mold, but does not kill the biomass inside the caulk pores. This is why the mold stain returns.
Carpet: Most moldy carpet will need to be replaced, including the pad underneath. For mold on rugs, saturate the rug with MoldZyme®, and let it sit for at least 10 minutes. Brush the biomass away. Launder the rug in cool water. If the rug is too large to launder, rinse with water. Let the rug dry completely.
Wood: Brush MoldZyme® into the surface to ensure that the enzymes can penetrate the pores. Allow to sit at least 10 minutes. Brush biomass to remove it completely. Rinse with cool water. For a video of mold removal on wood decking, check out the "watch demo" tab. MoldZyme® is safe for your children and pets and can remove mold from wood play structures and dog houses.
Upholstery: Brush MoldZyme® into the surface to ensure that the enzymes can penetrate the pores. Allow to sit at least 10 minutes. Brush biomass to remove it completely. A vacuum can draw out the moisture before and after treatment. MoldZyme® can be used with upholstery cleaning machines that have a cool or heat-free setting.
Siding, Brick, Vinyl, Stucco, and other home exteriors: MoldZyme® is safe for your plants, landscaping, and ground water. A tank sprayer is often easier for applying MoldZyme® to a large area. Spray Ready-to-Use over moldy areas and let sit at least 10 minutes. Brush in and rinse off with cool water. If your mortar or wood siding is older or extremely porous, brushing MoldZyme® in a second time may be more effective.
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Laundering Moldy Clothes and Fabrics
MoldZyme® concentrate can be added to the washing machine, in place of detergent or with natural detergent, to remove mold and mildew stains and odor from machine washable clothing and fabric. MoldZyme® concentrate contains no bleaching agents and is safe for fabrics. If you are concerned about the item, check in hidden area for colorfastness prior to laundering. Fabrics must be laundered in cold water only. Heat will degrade or destroy the enzymes. Do not use chlorine, peroxide, bleach, or oxygenating detergents with MoldZyme®.
Top Loader:
Fill empty washing machine tank with cold water. Add 1 oz. of concentrate to 7-10 gallons of washing machine tank water. Mix well. The water will look brownish. Add clothes. (Add small amount of natural detergent like Borax if desired.) For very soiled garments, soak for 5-10 minutes. Run normal washing machine cycle.
Front Loader:
Add clothes to tub and lock in. Mix 1-2 oz of concentrate with equal cool water. The Mixture will be dark brown. Pour mixture into detergent reservoir. (Add small amount of natural detergent like Borax if desired.) For very soiled garments, program a soak cycle. Run normal washing machine cycle.
By Hand:
Add 1 oz. of concentrate to 7-10 gallons of water in wash tub. Mix well. The water will look brownish. Add clothes. Soak for 5-10 minutes. (Add small amount of natural detergent like Borax if desired.) Hand wash clothes as normal or wring out and transfer to a washing machine.
These methods work great for curtains, camping or outdoor gear, shoes, throw rugs and blankets, small pillows and plush toys, pet bedding, towels, and outerwear.
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The Importance of Indoor Air Quality
If the Green movement has taught us anything, it has taught us that chemicals make us sick. It?s very obvious that the billowing clouds of smoke from the coal burning plant are bad for your lungs. The pollutants in your home may not be so obvious. There are many chemical toxins lurking in our homes that are impacting the air we breathe. It is important to understand where those chemical pollutants come from and how to heal the damage.
According to the EPA, indoor pollution sources that release gases or particles into the air are the primary cause of indoor air quality (IAQ) problems in homes. This could be anything from hair spray to air freshener, even the propellant disinfectant sprays that are supposed to kill the odor causing germs in our homes. These products may seem safe or seem to provide a solution when they actually release propane, butane, or other combustible propellants into the air. These small particulates can stay suspended for hours, days, or weeks depending on the air flow.
Building materials and furnishings are a significant source of indoor air problems as well. These products may have been soaked in repellants, pesticides, or other chemicals during the manufacturing process. Carpets, cabinetry, wood, and upholstery can all contribute to indoor air quality problems by off-gassing, or releasing fumes, into your home. The result is more harmful VOCs (volatile organic compounds) in your air.
When we breathe contaminated air, effects may show up immediately. In other people it may require repeated exposures for symptoms to develop. The symptoms of exposure to harmful VOCs include irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. For most people, symptoms subside once the causative agent (the source of the pollution) is removed. Long term effects like asthma, respiratory infections, bronchitis, pneumonia, sleep apnea, and multiple chemical sensitivity are all possible. Age and other health factors contribute to your risk of developing a long term illness due to exposure to poor indoor air quality. If you are concerned about exposure to VOCs, consult your health care provider.
Fortunately, it is easy to reduce the number of new chemical pollutants you bring into your home, and there are even a few ways to remove what?s currently there.
Top 10 Home Detox Tips for Cleaner Indoor Air
10. Take off your shoes. Ask your guests to remove their shoes as well. We can track in things a lot more dangerous than mud. This is especially important if you have children or pets that play or crawl on your floors.
9. Grow some fresh air. Keep leafy house plants. Plants naturally absorb carbon dioxide and provide fresh oxygen. Growing healthy, organic plants is like growing fresh air.
8. Ditch the Dry-cleaner. If you must dry clean, air out dry cleaned clothing before you put it in your home. The chemicals used in the dry clean process are very toxic. If you must have an item dry cleaned, remove the plastic and hang it outside to let the residues dissipate.
7. Avoid Ammonia. Commonly found in conventional window cleaners, this chemical can irritate the lungs, eyes, and mucus membranes. Ammonia adds nitrogen to the environment often resulting in disruptions to the ecosystem. Check out alternative Green products at the Farmer?s Almanac store.
6. Eliminate soft surfaces. Soft surfaces such as curtains, carpets, rugs, artificial flowers, and throw pillows can hold harmful chemicals or residues in their fibers. A hard surface replacement is easy to clean. Drapes and curtains can hold in or emit dust and toxins. Replace them with blinds that can be wiped down. Replace carpets with sustainable bamboo flooring or a high quality linoleum that does not leach petroleum compounds.
5. Beware of aerosol sprays. Each pump can fill your home with propellants made of volatile hydrocarbons, typically propane, n-butane and isobutane, all flammable petrochemicals. There are plenty of natural alternatives to freshen your home.
4. Don?t dry dust. Use a damp cloth to lock in the dust. Dust particles can bind to toxins and sit in your home. A cloth sprayed with an enzyme-based cleaner works great to deodorize and decontaminate.
3. Do away with air fresheners. These petroleum based fragrances continuously release chemicals into your home. Open a window or try an enzyme-based deodorizer to safely remove pet, smoke, and kitchen odors.
2. Get rid of toxic chemicals. Pesticides, solvents, chlorines, and petrochemicals have dangerous consequences. Chlorine is number one cause of chemical poisonings. Check with your local waste management to dispose of these properly.
1. Use only the highest quality green cleaning products. Read the labels carefully to make sure the product is actually green and safe. Fragrances and dyes are often made from petroleum, so "free and clear" products are best. Some products contain essential oils to add a pleasant scent and power. Since these oils are minimally processed, people with plant or pollen allergies should be careful. Used properly, green cleaners can help rid your home of dangerous residues and everyday soils.
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What is MoldZyme® Mold & Mildew Stain Cleaner?
MoldZyme® Mold & Mildew Stain Cleaner is a proprietary enzyme blend scientifically engineered for the cleaning of mold and mildew stains, as well as the removal of the related musty odor. The liquid penetrates mold to remove it from outdoor surfaces like wood, concrete, brick, and stucco. It works great on indoor surfaces like tile or areas with moisture problems.
How do I use MoldZyme® Mold & Mildew Stain Cleaner?
MoldZyme® Mold & Mildew Stain Cleaner is very easy and safe to use. For existing mold and mildew stains, apply MoldZyme® to the surface and scrub away mold and mildew stains using a sponge, cloth or brush. For severe stains, apply MoldZyme® and let stand before scrubbing or reapply one or more times. MoldZyme® is not a bleaching agent. It penetrates the mold and mildew to remove it from the surface. Always wipe surface free of debris after application.
For hard to reach or large areas, MoldZyme® is more effectively applied with a fogging device. Exterior walls can be effectively cleaned using MoldZyme® and a pressure washer without harming paint or exterior finish.
Is MoldZyme® safe?
Yes. MoldZyme® is safe for people, pets, plants, children, and the environment. It contains natural enzymes that are among the safest cleaning agents available. The formula is non-hazardous, non-toxic, and non-flammable. It contains no harsh chemicals, no chlorine, and no ammonia. MoldZyme® can safely be used around people, pets, plants, and marine life. Exterior surfaces can be effectively cleaned with MoldZyme® without concern for harming plants, shrubs, flowers, or the environment.
No special clothing is necessary when using MoldZyme®. Unlike chlorine, ammonia or other harsh chemicals that produce strong, toxic fumes, MoldZyme® is not harmful to the user and does not require special ventilation. However, due to the potential risk of exposure to mold and mildew, it is a good policy to wear respiratory protection while working in areas where mold is present.
MoldZyme® is environmentally safe and biodegradable. The USDA classifies the product (L2 Category) safe for sewage lines and drains. The ingredients of MoldZyme® are Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) according to the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR21), Sections 174-184.
Is MoldZyme® safe for people with chemical sensitivities or reactions?
There have been no reported cases where MoldZyme® has caused any allergic reactions. MoldZyme® does not have any added fragrances or masking agents, either natural or synthetic. It leaves a fresh, clean smell. We believe that the natural enzymes are an ideal alternative for people with these sensitivities. Please use common sense cautions when using any of our products.
Where can MoldZyme® be used?
MoldZyme® can be used on almost any surface, hard or soft, that has mold and mildew stains: concrete, bricks, stone, wood, tile, metals, plastics, marble, granite, Corian®, wallpaper, wall vinyl, drapes, carpet, ceiling tiles, patios, decks, walkways, stucco, aluminum siding, vinyl siding, even HVAC coils and filters ? any surface that is washable with water. MoldZyme® can be used on any surface that isn?t damaged by brief contact with water. Some of our customers have come up with very inventive uses for our product and can be seen on the testimonials page.
Caution should be taken when cleaning water-based, painted walls. The water-based paint may be removed or lightened with the use of MoldZyme®. MoldZyme® is non-corrosive and can be safely used on metal surfaces and metal finishes.
Can I use MoldZyme® out doors (decks, patios, siding, window frames and sills, etc)?
Yes. MoldZyme® will safely and effectively remove the mold stains from the patio or exterior of your home. The enzyme formula is safe for your plants so there is no need to worry about run off or pollution. Apply it to the surface, brush well, and then rinse dirt and stains away using a hose or pressure washer.
How well does MoldZyme® work on grout?
MoldZyme® removes all surface mold and mildew. Tile grout is porous (except for epoxy grout). Mold and mildew, if left alone will penetrate the grout, making it impossible to thoroughly clean. If mold and mildew have already penetrated the grout, the best solution is to remove the grout, thoroughly clean the area with MoldZyme®, and replace the grout. Use MoldZyme® regularly to keep the grout durable and free from mold and mildew stain. Before replacing grout or tile, it is prudent that the area be cleaned with MoldZyme® so that the new grout is not introduced to existing mold and mildew stain.
Chemical cleaners containing acid or chlorine bleach can leave mold and mildew behind. These chemicals cans cause the grout to deteriorate and can bleach the pigmentation of colored grout. Just one cleaning with acid or bleach-based cleaners can ruin tile and polished stone.
Will MoldZyme® remove the black mold stains from the caulk between my tub and tiles?
MoldZyme® will remove mold stains from caulk; however in most cases the black stain you see is not mold or mildew but actually damage to the caulk caused by chlorine-based products. The only solution is to remove the old caulk, replace it with new, mold-proof caulk, and only use MoldZyme® to clean your tub, shower and tile.
Can I use MoldZyme® Mold & Mildew Stain cleaner on carpet and fabrics?
Yes. MoldZyme® is not harmful to carpet, furniture, fabrics or any other surface that is washable with water. We do not recommend using it on sensitive fabrics like: silk, linen, velvet, etc. MoldZyme® can be used instead of shampoo in most commercial carpet cleaning machines. Some fabrics are more difficult to clean and it may be best to use a brush or high-powered spray to remove the mold stains. Keep in mind that some stains are impossible to remove no matter what cleaner you use. It is always a good policy to test any cleaning product in an inconspicuous area before using. Moldzyme is chlorine-free and contains no bleaching agents
How do I remove the musty, moldy smell from my car?
To deodorize car:
Lightly spray seats, carpets and headliner with moldzyme Set heater/ AC setting to fresh air setting to fresh air, turn fan on high. Close windows and doors
Usually there are intake vents located between the windshield and the engine compartment that draw in fresh air. Find these vents and give 3 or 4 sprays of MoldZyme into vents, let fan run for a few minutes. Turn off fan and let car sit, closed up for about ˝ hour.
If it is a warm sunny day open windows and let air out. If it is not sunny, take a ride with the fresh air flowing into the car.
Can I use MoldZyme® to clean leather (shoes, handbags, jackets, sofas, car seats, etc.)?
MoldZyme® does an excellent job at removing mold stains from leather. Simply wet a cloth with MoldZyme® and begin wiping the mold stains off of your shoes, handbags, jackets, furniture, car seats, etc. After cleaning, apply a leather conditioner.
Can I use MoldZyme® to launder moldy clothes?
Yes. MoldZyme® concentrate can be added to the washing machine, in place of detergent, to remove mold and mildew stains and odor from machine washable clothing.
Fill empty washing machine tank with cold water. Add 1 oz. of concentrate to 7-10 gal. of washing machine tank water. Mix well. Add clothes. Run normal washing machine cycle. Note: Check in hidden area for colorfastness prior to laundering. Fabrics must be laundered in cold water only.
Will MoldZyme® remove mold and mildew stains from vinyl (boat seats, outdoor furniture)?
Our customers have experienced mixed results at removing the stains from vinyl. Vinyl is a porous synthetic material that is extremely difficult to clean with any product. Moldzyme will remove the majority of the mildew stains from vinyl and in some cases remove or lighten all of the stains.
Can MoldZyme® be used on wood?
Yes, MoldZyme® is safe to use on wood floors, floor joists, wood siding, decking, etc as a surface cleaner. For cases where wood materials have supported mold growth for a period of time, mold may have penetrated the wood. A surface cleaner may not be a sufficient means of removal; it is recommended to replace the materials completely.
Can MoldZyme® Mold & Mildew Stain Cleaner be used with pressurized cleaning systems?
Yes, MoldZyme® is compatible with most commercial cleaning systems: pressurized, mechanical, and manual. However MoldZyme® cannot be used with steam, thermal foggers or in temperatures in excess of 130 °F (54.5 °C).
How do I mix and store MoldZyme® Mold & Mildew Stain Cleaner?
The shelf-life of MoldZyme® (Ready-To-Use or Concentrate) is 2 years. We recommend you store MoldZyme® at room temperature and protect it from freezing. Do not mix MoldZyme® with any other chemicals. Caustic chemicals will destroy the enzymes.
How much surface area can I clean with one gallon of MoldZyme®?
One gallon of MoldZyme® Ready-To-Use product will treat approximately 350 square feet.
My basement has a pungent, musty smell of mold or mildew but I do not see any visible mold. Will MoldZyme® help with this problem??
MoldZyme® is an excellent deodorizer of not only mold and mildew odors, but also any organic odor such as urine, skunk, vomit, dead animals, garbage or feces.
Thoroughly spray areas and surfaces directly where odor problems exist. Treatment with a fogging system is recommended for covering larger areas. MoldZyme® does not cover up odors, but actually eliminates them leaving the air smelling fresh and clean.
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