Arts >> Art >> Other Art

How to Remove Mold from an Art Painting

Mold is a fungus that forms in warm, moist conditions. Living with mold and inhaling its spores can be harmful to humans. Mold can permanently damage and discolor artwork if left untreated. Experts have fungicidal chambers where mold spores are killed as part of the restoration process. Keep your art in a controlled setting. If mold develops, follow these steps. Handle paintings with care. If you seem to be making the problem worse, stop and take the piece of art to an expert.

Things You'll Need

  • Lysol spray Soft brush
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Spray the artwork lightly on both the front and back with Lysol. Do not use Lysol in a bottle.

    • 2

      Allow the spray to dry and test a small patch to see if the mold is powdery and dry. If it isn't, repeat the Lysol spray treatment until the mold is dormant.

    • 3

      Take the painting outdoors and place it on a clean surface.

    • 4

      Use a soft brush to gently remove the dormant mold. Do not grind the mold into the canvas or paper.

    • 5

      Check for mold under the canvas stretchers, frame and mat. If it's present, use the soft brush to remove it.

    • 6

      Try an alternative method if Lysol doesn't work. Expose the art to bright sunlight for an hour and a half. Check frequently to make sure the sun isn't damaging the art. Or, place the art in a freezer that is not frost free and that doesn't cycle on and off. This method doesn't kill the mold. It simply arrests its development.

+:
+:

Other Art

Related Categories