How to Remove Mould from Walls Without Damaging the Paint

Mould growing on your painted walls is more than just an eyesore—it can trigger allergies, worsen asthma, and even indicate deeper moisture problems in your home. But before you reach for harsh chemicals or scrubbers, it’s important to understand how to remove mould without ruining your wall paint.

Whether you’re dealing with black mould, damp spots, or musty stains, this guide will help you safely and effectively clean the area, preserve your paint, and prevent future mould growth.

If you’re a tenant and mould has developed due to disrepair, such as leaks or poor ventilation, you may be eligible to make a housing disrepair claim.

What Causes Mould to Grow on Painted Walls?

Mould forms when excess moisture meets poor ventilation. It’s most common in bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and bedrooms with cold or damp walls.

Common causes include:

• Condensation on cold surfaces

• Leaky roofs or pipes

• Rising damp in ground-floor rooms

• Lack of airflow in enclosed spaces

When this happens, mould spores settle on walls and feed on dust, humidity, and organic matter, sometimes appearing as black, green, or grey patches.

Is It Safe to Remove Mould Without Removing Paint?

Yes—if you use the right tools and gentle cleaning methods, you can remove mould without stripping or fading the paint. However, the wrong products (like bleach or abrasive brushes) can peel paint or cause stains to spread.

Tools and Products You’ll Need

To get started, gather the following:

• Rubber gloves and a mask (for safety)

• Soft cloths or a non-abrasive sponge

• White vinegar or baking soda

• Mild detergent

• Spray bottle

• A bucket of warm water

• Towel or dry cloth

Optional (for prevention):

• Dehumidifier

• Anti-mould wall spray

• Mould-resistant paint

How to Remove Mould from Walls Without Damaging Paint – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare the Area

• Open windows for ventilation

• Move the nearby furniture away from the wall

• Lay down a plastic sheet or towel to protect the floor

• Put on gloves and a mask to protect yourself from mould spores

Step 2: Create a Natural Mould-Cleaning Solution

Avoid bleach—it can damage paint and release harsh fumes. Instead, try:

Option A: Vinegar Solution

Mix one part white vinegar with two parts water in a spray bottle.

Option B: Baking Soda Paste

Mix two tablespoons of baking soda with enough water to form a thick paste. This is great for tougher stains.

Option C: Mild Detergent

Use a small amount of liquid detergent mixed with warm water.

These options are effective, safe for most wall paints, and non-toxic.

Step 3: Apply and Let It Sit

Spray or dab the affected area lightly with your chosen cleaner.
Let it sit for 15–30 minutes to allow the solution to kill the mould spores beneath the surface.

Avoid soaking the wall—excess water can worsen the damp problem or damage the paint.

Step 4: Gently Wipe the Mould Away

Using a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge:

• Gently wipe the area in circular motions

• Avoid scrubbing hard, which could peel paint

• Rinse the cloth in clean water frequently to avoid spreading spores

For stubborn mould, you may need to repeat this process a second time.

Step 5: Dry the Wall Completely

Use a clean, dry towel or cloth to pat the wall dry.
To speed up drying, place a fan nearby or open windows.

Drying is critical. If the wall stays damp, the mould could return within days.

What Not to Do

• Don’t use bleach directly on painted walls—it can discolour the paint and release harmful fumes.

• Don’t scrub with hard brushes—they’ll damage the paint finish.

• Don’t paint over mould without treating it first—it will grow back under the paint.

To understand why painting over mould is risky, check out our full post:
Can You Paint Over Mould?

How to Prevent Mould Returning on Painted Walls

Prevention is just as important as removal. Here’s how to stop mould from coming back:

• Improve ventilation – use extractor fans and open windows regularly

• Fix leaks promptly – dripping pipes or roof leaks fuel mould growth

• Use a dehumidifier – ideal for damp-prone rooms

• Repaint with anti-mould paint – perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements

• Keep walls clean and dry, especially during colder months

For more long-term strategies, read:
How to Prevent Mould in Your Home

Landlord Responsibilities: What If Mould Keeps Returning?

If you rent your property and the mould keeps coming back—even after proper cleaning—it may be due to structural disrepair that your landlord is responsible for fixing.

This includes:

• Leaking roofs or pipes

• Broken windows or vents

• Rising damp or poor insulation

• Inadequate heating or ventilation systems

Under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, landlords are legally required to maintain a safe, habitable environment.

You may be entitled to:

• Free repairs

• Compensation for damages to belongings or health

• Professional mould removal

Start your housing disrepair claim today—our team works on a no win, no fee basis to help tenants across the UK.

Final Thoughts

Removing mould from walls without damaging the paint is entirely possible, but it requires gentle cleaning, the right products, and preventive care. Vinegar, baking soda, and mild detergent are safe and effective for most painted surfaces.

But remember: mould is often a symptom of a bigger problem.
If your home suffers from recurring mould or damp due to disrepair, don’t just clean it—get it fixed.