Many people turn to sugar soap when tackling household cleaning tasks, but does it effectively kill mould? The short answer is no—sugar soap does not kill mould. While it is excellent for cleaning surfaces and removing dirt, grease, and even some staining caused by mould, it lacks the antimicrobial properties needed to eliminate mould at its source. More importantly, sugar soap does not prevent mould from returning, making it an ineffective solution for mould remediation.
Sugar soap is a popular cleaning agent used to prepare surfaces before painting, degrease walls, and remove stubborn grime. Despite its name, sugar soap does not contain sugar. The name is thought to have originated from the powdered form’s resemblance to granulated sugar.
The composition of sugar soap can vary by country and manufacturer, but it typically contains the following key ingredients:
While these ingredients make sugar soap highly effective for general cleaning, none of them have antifungal or antimicrobial properties. This means that sugar soap can clean the surface appearance of mould but does not kill the mould spores that cause it.
Although sugar soap does not kill mould, it can sometimes help remove mould stains left behind on walls, ceilings, and painted surfaces. However, this is purely a cosmetic fix. If the underlying mould spores are not eliminated, the mould will return—often within a short period.
For a deeper clean and mould prevention, it is essential to use specialised antimicrobial treatments rather than relying on sugar soap alone.
In addition to not killing mould, sugar soap also does not prevent future mould growth. Mould thrives in damp environments with excess moisture, and sugar soap does nothing to alter these conditions. Without addressing the root cause of the mould—such as leaks, high humidity, or poor ventilation—mould will likely continue to grow even after cleaning with sugar soap.
Instead of using sugar soap, it is recommended to use an effective mould removal solution that not only eliminates visible mould but also kills the mould spores to prevent regrowth. Some common alternatives include:
For minor mould issues, DIY methods like vinegar and hydrogen peroxide may be suitable. However, for significant mould problems, professional treatment is highly recommended. Mould & Hygiene Solutions uses advanced water-based antimicrobial solutions that kill mould on contact and provide ongoing protection against regrowth. Unlike sugar soap, these treatments address the root cause of mould and prevent it from recurring.
No, sugar soap does not kill mould. While it is a highly effective cleaning agent for removing dirt and some stains, it lacks the necessary antifungal properties to kill mould spores. Additionally, it does not prevent mould from growing back. Instead of relying on sugar soap, it is best to use a mould-specific treatment or seek professional help for long-term protection.
For expert mould removal and prevention, contact Mould & Hygiene Solutions today and enjoy a mould-free home with our advanced antimicrobial treatments.