Tips for Dealing with Mold on Wooden Doors


Release Date:

2019-02-28

Information Summary

I. Causes of Mold on Wooden Doors There are actually many reasons why wooden doors develop mold—whether it’s due to weather conditions or our everyday indoor activities, both can lead to the growth of mold spots on wooden doors. First, when we clean or do a thorough housecleaning, it’s quite easy for water from mops or cloths to splash onto the wooden door. Because we often don’t pay close attention during the process, over time numerous small mold patches will appear. Second, spaces like kitchens and bathrooms are frequently exposed to water, making it hard for moisture not to be absorbed by the wooden door; therefore, wooden doors in these areas are relatively more prone to mold. In addition, temperature fluctuations between cold and warm environments can cause condensation inside the room—for example, during prolonged rainy seasons, or

  I. Causes of Mold Growth on Wooden Doors

  There are actually many reasons why wooden doors develop mold—whether it’s due to weather conditions or everyday indoor activities, both can lead to the growth of mold spots on wood. First, during routine cleaning or deep cleaning, water from mops or cloths often gets splashed onto wooden doors. Because this is usually done without much care, over time small mold patches can appear. Second, areas like kitchens and bathrooms are frequently exposed to water, making it easy for moisture to be absorbed by the wood; as a result, wooden doors in these spaces are more prone to mold. In addition, temperature fluctuations between warm and cool environments can cause condensation indoors—for example, during prolonged rainy seasons or the plum rain season in southern China—leading to high levels of indoor humidity. This excess moisture can even condense into droplets on walls and wooden doors, which is a major cause of mold growth on wood.

  Of course, in addition to moisture causing mold on wooden doors, insufficient painting or substandard paint can also lead to mold spots on solid-wood doors. Furthermore, it’s possible that water was accidentally spilled on the wood during manufacturing, or that the wood was not fully dried before being crafted into a door.

  II. Tips for Dealing with Mold on Wooden Doors

  Mold on wooden doors not only detracts from their appearance, but the mold spores can also trigger asthma and other respiratory illnesses. Therefore, when you notice mold on solid wood doors at home, first wipe it off with a dry paper towel, or gently brush it with a soft brush before wiping it away with a paper towel. If the mold persists, use a damp paper towel or cloth and scrub vigorously several times.

  Specialized essential oils also have excellent mildew-removal properties. Start by wiping away mildew stains with a clean, soft cloth dampened with a dedicated cleaning agent. Then, apply a thin layer of door wax or specialized essential oil to the affected areas, and place a bar of soap—or dried tea leaves—in places where the musty odor lingers to help eliminate it.