Ultimate Guide to Removing Mould & Mildew with Sodium Percarbonate
Mould and mildew are common household problems that can cause damage to surfaces, create unpleasant odours, and even pose health risks. Whether it’s black mould on bathroom tiles, mildew stains on outdoor furniture, or a musty smell in fabrics, you need an effective, safe, and eco-friendly solution.
One of the best ways to tackle mould and mildew is by using sodium percarbonate, a powerful yet environmentally friendly cleaning agent available from HD Chemicals. This guide will cover everything you need to know about using sodium percarbonate to eliminate mould and mildew in your home.
What is Sodium Percarbonate?
Sodium percarbonate (Na₂CO₃·1.5H₂O₂) is a combination of sodium carbonate (washing soda) and hydrogen peroxide. When dissolved in water, it breaks down into these two active ingredients, releasing oxygen that helps lift dirt, stains, and organic matter like mould and mildew.
Why Use Sodium Percarbonate for Mould & Mildew Removal?
✅ Eco-Friendly & Biodegradable – Breaks down into water, oxygen, and soda ash, leaving no toxic residues.
✅ Powerful Oxidizer – Kills mould spores and removes stains effectively.
✅ Safe for Most Surfaces – Can be used on tiles, grout, fabrics, wood, and outdoor surfaces.
✅ Odour Neutralizer – Eliminates musty smells caused by mildew.
✅ Non-Toxic Alternative – Safer than chlorine bleach, which produces harmful fumes.
How to Use Sodium Percarbonate for Mould & Mildew Removal
1. Removing Mould from Bathroom Tiles & Grout
Mould thrives in damp areas like bathrooms, especially on tiles and grout. Here’s how to clean it:
What You’ll Need:
- HD Chemicals Sodium Percarbonate
- Warm water
- Scrubbing brush or old toothbrush
- Spray bottle or sponge
Instructions:
- Mix the solution – Dissolve 30g (about 2 tablespoons) of sodium percarbonate in 1L of warm water.
- Apply to affected areas – Pour or spray the solution onto mouldy grout and tiles.
- Let it sit – Allow the solution to work for 10–15 minutes.
- Scrub the surface – Use a scrubbing brush to remove loosened mould.
- Rinse with clean water – Wipe down the area to remove residue.
🔹 Tip: For tough stains, create a paste using sodium percarbonate and a little water, apply it to the grout, and let it sit for 30 minutes before scrubbing.
2. Eliminating Mould & Mildew on Fabric
Fabrics like curtains, clothes, and upholstery can develop mildew spots, especially in humid environments.
What You’ll Need:
- HD Chemicals Sodium Percarbonate
- Warm water
- A bucket or basin
Instructions:
- Pre-soak the fabric – Dissolve 50g (about 4 tablespoons) of sodium percarbonate in 5L of warm water.
- Soak for at least 1 hour – Let the fabric sit in the solution; for severe mildew, leave it overnight.
- Wash as usual – Use your regular laundry detergent.
- Air dry in sunlight – Sunlight further helps to kill remaining spores.
🔹 Tip: Avoid using sodium percarbonate on wool, silk, or leather as it may damage delicate fibres.
3. Cleaning Mould from Outdoor Furniture & Wooden Surfaces
Outdoor furniture, fences, and decking can accumulate mould and mildew over time.
What You’ll Need:
- HD Chemicals Sodium Percarbonate
- A bucket
- Scrubbing brush
- Hose or pressure washer
Instructions:
- Prepare the cleaning solution – Mix 100g of sodium percarbonate with 5L of warm water.
- Apply generously – Pour the solution over affected areas or use a brush to spread it evenly.
- Allow it to soak – Leave for 15–20 minutes to break down mould.
- Scrub and rinse – Use a scrubbing brush or hose down with water.
🔹 Tip: For wooden decks, use a soft-bristled brush to avoid damaging the surface.
4. Removing Mould from Walls & Ceilings
Mould on walls and ceilings can lead to health issues, so it’s important to clean it safely.
What You’ll Need:
- HD Chemicals Sodium Percarbonate
- A spray bottle
- Cloth or sponge
Instructions:
- Mix a solution – Use 30g per 1L of warm water.
- Apply the solution – Spray lightly onto mouldy areas.
- Let it sit for 10 minutes – Allow the oxygen action to break down the mould.
- Wipe clean – Use a damp cloth to remove residue.
🔹 Tip: Avoid excessive moisture when cleaning walls to prevent further mould growth.
Preventing Mould & Mildew Growth
- Increase ventilation – Use exhaust fans and dehumidifiers in damp areas.
- Fix leaks promptly – Address plumbing leaks and condensation issues.
- Keep surfaces dry – Wipe down wet areas, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
- Use sodium percarbonate regularly – A monthly clean prevents mould build-up.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is sodium percarbonate safe for pets and children?
Yes, when used properly and rinsed thoroughly. Avoid direct contact with skin and eyes.
2. Can I mix sodium percarbonate with vinegar or bleach?
No. Mixing with vinegar can neutralize its effectiveness, and mixing with bleach is dangerous due to gas release.
3. Does sodium percarbonate work in cold water?
It works best in warm water (40–60°C), but it can still be effective in cold water with longer soaking times.
4. Can I use sodium percarbonate on coloured fabrics?
Yes, but always test on a small area first, as it has mild bleaching properties.
5. Will sodium percarbonate damage grout or wood?
No, but prolonged exposure can lighten certain surfaces. Always rinse thoroughly after cleaning.
6. How long does sodium percarbonate solution stay active?
Once dissolved, it remains active for about 6 hours, after which the hydrogen peroxide breaks down.
7. Can I store pre-mixed sodium percarbonate solution?
No, always mix fresh batches as it loses effectiveness over time.
8. How often should I use sodium percarbonate for mould prevention?
A monthly cleaning routine helps prevent mould regrowth.
9. Does sodium percarbonate have a strong smell?
No, it is virtually odourless, unlike chlorine bleach.
10. Where can I buy high-quality sodium percarbonate?
You can purchase HD Chemicals Sodium Percarbonate online or at select retailers.
Final Thoughts
Sodium percarbonate is a safe, powerful, and eco-friendly solution for mould and mildew removal. Whether you’re tackling bathroom grout, fabric stains, or outdoor surfaces, it provides an effective alternative to harsh chemical cleaners.
For high-quality sodium percarbonate, check out HD Chemicals – your trusted source for safe and effective cleaning solutions.
10 DIY Cleaning Hacks Using Sodium Percarbonate
1. DIY Stain Remover for Clothes
Got tough stains like coffee, wine, or sweat? Try this easy pre-soak:
🧺 Mix: 2 tbsp sodium percarbonate + 1L warm water
🕒 Soak: 30 minutes to overnight
🧼 Wash: As usual for brighter, fresher fabrics
🔹 Tip: Works well on white and coloured clothes but test on dark fabrics first.
2. Homemade Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner
Spilled something on your couch or carpet? Here’s a natural deep cleaner:
🧴 Mix: 1 tbsp sodium percarbonate + 500ml warm water
🧽 Apply: Dab onto stains with a cloth (don’t oversaturate)
🕒 Wait: 10–15 minutes
💨 Blot dry and vacuum once dry
🔹 Tip: Do a patch test first, especially on delicate fabrics.
3. Odour-Free Trash Bin Cleaner
Smelly bins? A quick sodium percarbonate soak will neutralize odours.
🗑️ Sprinkle: 1 tbsp sodium percarbonate at the bottom of the bin
🚰 Pour: 500ml hot water
🕒 Let sit: 15 minutes, then rinse
🔹 Tip: Do this weekly to keep your bins fresh!
4. DIY Dishwasher Cleaner
Remove grease and limescale buildup in your dishwasher with this natural cleaner.
🍽️ Sprinkle: 2 tbsp sodium percarbonate in the bottom of an empty dishwasher
🔥 Run: A hot wash cycle
🔹 Tip: Do this monthly to keep your dishwasher working efficiently.
5. Mildew-Free Shower Curtain Soak
Keep shower curtains fresh and mould-free.
🚿 Soak: 50g sodium percarbonate in 5L warm water
🕒 Wait: 30 minutes, then rinse and hang dry
🔹 Tip: Works on plastic and fabric shower curtains!
6. Fresh-Smelling Towels Hack
Musty towels? Revive them with this deep-clean method.
🛁 Mix: 50g sodium percarbonate in 5L hot water
🕒 Soak: 1 hour
🧼 Wash: As usual
🔹 Tip: Adds extra softness to towels!
7. DIY Toilet Bowl Cleaner
A fizzy, deep-cleaning toilet refresh:
🚽 Sprinkle: 1 tbsp sodium percarbonate into the bowl
🚰 Add: 200ml warm water
🕒 Wait: 10 minutes, then scrub
🔹 Tip: Regular use prevents limescale buildup.
8. Mould-Free Fridge Seal Cleaner
Prevent mould on fridge seals and rubber gaskets.
🧴 Mix: 1 tbsp sodium percarbonate + 500ml warm water
🧽 Wipe down the rubber seals with a cloth
🔹 Tip: Helps eliminate fridge odours, too!
9. Natural Deck & Patio Cleaner
Remove moss, mildew, and grime from outdoor areas.
🏡 Mix: 100g sodium percarbonate + 5L warm water
🕒 Wait: 10 minutes, then scrub and rinse
🔹 Tip: Works great on stone, concrete, and wooden decking!
10. Pet Bedding & Toy Sanitizer
Keep your pet’s items fresh and bacteria-free.
🐾 Soak: 30g sodium percarbonate in 3L warm water
🕒 Wait: 30 minutes, then rinse and dry
🔹 Tip: Safe for most pet fabrics but avoid using it on wool or leather items.
Final Thoughts
Sodium percarbonate is a versatile, eco-friendly cleaner that can replace many harsh chemical cleaners in your home. Whether you're freshening up laundry, deep-cleaning your bathroom, or tackling outdoor messes, this powerful oxygen cleaner from HD Chemicals has you covered.