The short answer
Assess the Mold First
Before you start scrubbing, take a close look at the wallpaper and the wall behind it. Mold often hides behind wallpaper because the paste and paper trap moisture. Gently pull back a corner to check the extent. If you see dark spots, a musty smell, or the paper is bubbling, the mold has likely spread further than the visible area.
Also check the wall material. Drywall and plaster are porous, so mold can soak deep into them. If the drywall feels soft, crumbles, or has water stains, cleaning the surface will not fix the problem. In that case, the affected section usually needs to be cut out and replaced. If you are unsure, a water damage inspection can help you understand the damage.
Prepare the Area
Cleaning mold can release spores into the air, so protect yourself first. Wear gloves, safety goggles, and a respirator or N95 mask. Open a window or use a fan to ventilate the room, but avoid blowing air directly at the mold, as that can spread spores. Remove any furniture or cover it with plastic sheeting.
You also need to find the source of moisture. Mold will come back if the wall stays damp. Look for leaks from pipes, a roof, or condensation. Humid climates and spring storms can make moisture problems more frequent. Fixing the leak is the first step to preventing regrowth.
- Wear gloves, goggles, and a mask
- Open windows or use a fan for ventilation
- Cover nearby furniture with plastic
- Locate and fix the moisture source
- Keep children and pets out of the room
Remove the Wallpaper
In most cases, you cannot clean mold off wallpaper effectively. The paper is porous and traps spores, so scrubbing the surface will not remove them all. You need to take the wallpaper down. Start at a corner or seam and pull gently. If it resists, use a scoring tool to perforate it, then spray with warm water and a little dish soap.
Work in small sections to avoid spreading spores. Roll the wallpaper inward so the moldy side is covered. Dispose of the paper in a sealed plastic bag. Once the wallpaper is off, inspect the underlying wall. If it is drywall, check for soft spots. If it is plaster, see if the surface is intact. The wall may need to dry out before you treat it.
Clean the Wall Surface
After removing the wallpaper, clean the wall with a mild detergent and water. Mix a few drops of dish soap into a bucket of warm water. Use a sponge or cloth to wipe the surface, but do not soak it. Excess water can drive moisture deeper into the wall. Rinse with a clean, damp cloth and then dry the area with a fan or dehumidifier.
For non-porous surfaces like tile or painted plaster, a solution of water and white vinegar can help. For drywall, avoid bleach, as it can damage the material and does not penetrate porous surfaces. After cleaning, let the wall dry completely for several days. If the mold returns, the wall may need more extensive treatment or removal.
- Use mild detergent and warm water
- Avoid soaking the wall
- Dry with a fan or dehumidifier
- For non-porous surfaces, try vinegar
- Let the wall dry for several days
When to Call the Pros
If the mold covers a large area, is behind multiple layers, or the wall is severely damaged, cleaning it yourself can be risky. The pros have the equipment to contain spores and dry the structure properly. They also know how to handle hidden moisture and can help prevent regrowth. If you have health concerns like asthma or allergies, see a doctor if you feel unwell and consider professional help.
For thorough drying and dehumidification, the pros can use industrial equipment that you may not have. They can also inspect for leaks and assess the full extent of the damage. If you need to remove and replace drywall, that is a job for a drywall repair specialist. The pros can guide you on the next steps.
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Call Now (817) 799-6732Frequently asked questions
Can I just paint over moldy wallpaper?
Painting over mold does not kill it. The mold will continue to grow underneath and can eventually bleed through the paint. You need to remove the wallpaper and clean the wall properly before repainting. Otherwise, the problem will return.
Is bleach effective for killing mold on walls?
Bleach can kill mold on non-porous surfaces, but drywall and wallpaper are porous. Bleach may not penetrate deep enough and can actually feed mold on porous materials. A mild detergent and water is often safer and more effective for cleaning the surface.
What should I do if the mold keeps coming back?
If mold recurs, the underlying moisture problem is still there. You need to find and fix the source, such as a leak or high humidity. Consider using a dehumidifier and improving ventilation. If the wall is severely affected, professional removal and drying may be necessary.