By Daniel Mazori

Mold occurs naturally in all environments, but when it accumulates in your home it can trigger allergies. Visible mold is an indication that moisture levels are too high: If you see mold that covers an area larger than ten square feet (about the size of a standard bathtub) have a contractor or mold remediator inspect it, says Caroline Blazovsky, a certified mold remediator and president of My Healthy Home (myhealthyhome.info), an indoor air-testing company. Here are Blazovsky's suggestions for dealing with typical household mold without using harsh chemicals:

Prepare any of these less-toxic mold-killing solutions, depending on which scent you prefer (any aroma should dissipate within a few hours). Spray it on the mold and do not rinse (the longer the solution is in contact with the mold, the more effective it will be).

• 15 to 20 drops of grapefruit seed extract in 2 cups of warm water
• White distilled vinegar, straight or diluted 50/50 with water
• ½ cup of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide in 1 cup of warm water

If these cleaners don't do the job, prepare a more aggressive mixture of ¼ cup of Borax in 2 cups of warm water, spray it on the mold, and let it sit for as long as possible (but rinse it before showering).

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Your Comments:

Where can I get grapefruit seed extract? Thank you!
-- Brian

Your Comments:

It's great to see Caroline's recommendations. I have heard her on Martha Stewart shows and followed her for years. Vinegar works the best for everything.
-- Carole Lebouf

Your Comments:

That is great advice. I'll try out.
-- Amada

Your Comments:

I am so desperate for a mold solution. I have tried every product out there. I may have to go straight for the borax. Cross your fingers for me.
-- Liz

Your Comments:

These recommendations are great. I am highly sensitive to bleach, and have been looking for some good alternatives. And I feel much better about using them around my children. Thanks Caroline!

-- Andrea

Your Comments:

Brian, In response to your question, try your local health food store or an online nutritional supplement retailer (needs.com). Also, you can get natural air fresheners which disperse grapefruit seed extract into the air to help keep mold to a minimum. Be well and healthy!
-- Caroline Blazovsky

Your Comments:

Wow! I loved this so much that I suggested it to my school, which is trying to become more green. Thanks!
-- Kels

Your Comments:

The mold in my bathroom is on painted drywall near the ceiling. Any ideas on keeping the solutions from running down the wall?
-- Karen

Your Comments:

Are all of these solutions safe to use around children and animals?
-- nlf

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