Does bleach kill mold?
Bleach does not effectively kill mold on porous materials. Chlorine bleach is water-based; on drywall, wood, and insulation the chlorine evaporates while the water penetrates the substrate, potentially feeding deeper growth. IICRC S520 requires physical removal of contaminated porous material — not topical disinfectant application.
Category: Mold Remediation
Reviewed: 2026-04-20
Source: IICRC S520 §12 · EPA mold guidance
RP
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