Don't try this at home: Experts have warned against using bleach to remove mold from wood.

A bleach cleaning tip for removing mold from wood recently went viral, but experts warn it could do more harm than good to your home.

It goes without saying that we all want to get rid of mold when it appears, especially for the sake of our home and our health. However, if mold gets into the wood, it can be a little more difficult to remove because it becomes lodged in the wood fibers.

There are tried-and-true methods for removing mold from wood , but this final cleaning tip involves spraying the wood with bleach and letting it soak with a layer of plastic wrap for a few hours before removing the mold.

However, this method may not be the best solution. We asked the experts why.

(Image credit: Future PLC / Chris Snook)

Why you shouldn't clean wood with bleach

"Removing mold from wood can be a particularly difficult task because mold can build up in the fibers of the wood, so cleaning the surface alone won't solve the problem," explains DIY expert Tim Warren of Adkwik .

"Using plastic wrap and bleach appears to be effective at killing mold on wood, but it usually only kills superficial mold and removes any discoloration the mold may have caused."

"The chlorine content in bleach often evaporates immediately, leaving water that is absorbed into the wood. This water can potentially promote mold growth in the wood, especially if it has not been allowed to dry properly.

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Additionally, using bleach can damage the wood.

"Bleach can discolor, dry out, and even damage wood fibers if you're not careful," warns Forrest Webber, founder of Bear Brothers Cleaning . "Instead of removing the mold and leaving a pristine finish, the wood may end up looking sunburned and then left to die."

"Plus, bleach in porous wood doesn't get to the root of the mold, so the mold just sits around waiting for the next opportunity to come back to the surface, like a sequel to a bad horror movie."

What are the best options instead?

(Image credit: Future PLC/Darren Chung)

What should I use instead?

What you need:

"If you want to remove mold from a painted or sealed wood surface, use a mixture of dish soap and water," advises DIY expert Tim. "To make the mixture, add a tablespoon of dish soap to about a quart of water and use a soft-bristled brush to scrub the moldy surface."

"Avoid soaking the wood and remove excess water with a sponge if necessary. Do not rinse the wood after scrubbing as adding more water can cause mold to form.

"For small amounts of mold that don't appear to have discolored or penetrated the wood, spraying the area with white vinegar can kill the mold spores," Tim continues. "After applying the vinegar, allow it to air dry for at least an hour.

"If mold stains remain after treating the wood, the surface of the wood must be sanded to remove spores that have penetrated deeper into the wood. Be sure to wear protective gear like a mask and safety glasses when sanding moldy wood, as this can release spores that can make you sick.

(Image credit: Future PLC/Mel Yates)

Overall, this is not an effective trick.

"This trick looks great on social media, but it can lead to regret, tears, and an awkward explanation for why half your library looks like it's had a chemical peel," Forrest concludes.

"For a real, long-lasting solution, use vinegar or a mild wood anti-mold product. You'll thank yourself later if you don't buy replacement furniture.

Removing mold from wood can be challenging, but that doesn't mean quick alternatives are always the best solution.

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