How to Remove Mould From Walls in a Commercial Kitchen

Mould in a commercial kitchen is more than just an eyesore—it’s a serious issue that can impact your business, staff, and customers. Left untreated, mould growth can release spores into the air, causing respiratory problems, allergic reactions, and other health concerns for your team and patrons. In a fast-paced restaurant environment, these risks are unacceptable.

Beyond health concerns, mould jeopardises your kitchen’s hygiene standards. Greying walls and unsightly patches can undermine the aesthetic of your workspace, creating a negative impression for any visiting inspectors or clients. What’s worse, failing to address mould issues can lead to non-compliance with health and safety regulations, risking penalties, bad reviews, or even closure.

This guide is for restaurant owners and managers and it offers them clear, actionable steps to remove mould safely and effectively from your commercial kitchen walls. By the end of this article, you’ll have the tools and knowledge to tackle mould, safeguard your team’s health, and keep your kitchen running smoothly and compliant with regulations.

What is Mould?

Public service announcement: Mould and mildew are not the same things.

Mould is a type of fungus that grows in damp, warm, and poorly ventilated environments. It spreads by absorbing organic matter and moisture, forming spores that can spread easily through the air. In a commercial kitchen, mould typically grows on walls, ceilings, equipment, and surfaces exposed to moisture, such as near sinks, dishwashers, or cooking areas. If left unchecked, mould can not only damage surfaces but also pose health risks.

The 6 Different Types of Mould

1. Aspergillus
2. Penicillium
3. Cladosporium
4. Stachybotrys (Black Mould)
5. Alternaria
6. Fusarium

What Causes Mould in Commercial Kitchens

High Humidity Levels

Commercial kitchens are full of steam, whether it’s from cooking, boiling, or dishwashing. This moisture in the air provides an ideal breeding ground for mould.

Poor Ventilation

Without proper ventilation, moisture becomes trapped in the air and on surfaces, creating an environment where mould can thrive. This is especially problematic in kitchens without functioning extractor fans or windows that open to let fresh air circulate.

Hidden Leaks or Damp Areas

Water leaks are another major culprit. Leaks behind walls, under sinks, or around plumbing fixtures may go unnoticed for long periods, creating a damp, dark environment where mould can grow. Regularly check for leaks and always repair them as quickly as possible.

Food Preparation Areas

Spills and crumbs in preparation areas can also lead to mould sneaking its way into your life (and into your kitchen). Organic materials provide a food source for mould, which can feed on grease, sugar, or other substances left behind after cooking or cleaning.

The 4 Risks of Ignoring Mould

Many people may think that if they can just paint over mould and ignore it - an out-of-sight out-of-mind situation. While mould might seem like a minor inconvenience, the risks of not getting rid of mould in a commercial kitchen are:

1. Health hazards: The most obvious risk of mould in a kitchen is the potential health impact on staff and customers. Mould spores can become airborne, and when inhaled, they can cause respiratory problems, allergic reactions, and other health issues, particularly for individuals with asthma or weakened immune systems.
2. Damage to kitchen surfaces: Over time, mould can stain and ruin walls, tiles, paint, and even appliances. As the mould spreads, it may weaken the structure of the walls - meaning your repair costs are going to be sky-high.
3. Compliance issues: Health and safety regulations require that commercial kitchens maintain a clean and hygienic environment. Mould is often seen as a violation of these regulations, which can lead to fines, failed inspections, and in some cases, closure of the business until the issue is resolved. Keeping your kitchen free from mould ensures you stay on the right side of the law and avoid unnecessary penalties.
4. Reputational impact: The appearance of mould in your kitchen, whether visible to customers or discovered by health inspectors, can seriously damage your restaurant’s reputation. Customers trust you to maintain high standards of hygiene, and if mould is detected, they may lose confidence in your ability to ensure food safety. Negative reviews and word of mouth could tarnish your brand’s image, leading to a loss of business and long-term customer trust.

Step-by-Step Guide for How To Clean Mould off Walls

1. Prepare the Area

Tools needed: Protective sheets, rubber gloves, mask, goggles

• Ensure proper ventilation: Open windows or turn on extractor fans to create airflow and reduce the concentration of mould spores in the air.
• Remove movable items: Take out any kitchen equipment, utensils, or furniture that may be in the way. This prevents contamination and makes the cleaning process more efficient.
• Protect surrounding areas: Lay down protective sheets or plastic coverings on the floor, counters, and nearby surfaces. This helps catch debris and avoids spreading spores to other areas.

2. Wear Protective Gear

Tools needed: Gloves, mask, goggles

Mould spores can be harmful to your health, so it’s important to wear the right protective gear. Put on gloves, a mask (preferably an N95), and goggles to shield yourself from inhaling spores and coming into contact with cleaning chemicals.

3. Apply A Mould Killer Cleaning Solution

Tools needed: Spray bottle, commercial mould cleaner or mild detergent (not bleach), water

• Spray the affected area: Use an effective mould remover or a homemade solution of mild detergent mixed with warm water. Spray it generously on the mouldy spots.
• Let it sit: Allow the solution to sit for 10-15 minutes. This will loosen the mould, making it easier to scrub away.

4. Scrub the Mould Away

Tools needed: Soft-bristled brush or sponge

Use a soft-bristled brush or sponge to gently scrub away and remove the mould. Avoid using abrasive tools, as they can damage the paint or walls and may cause the mould to spread to other areas.

If the mould is thick and stubborn, continue scrubbing until the surface is clean. Be sure to work in small sections to ensure thorough cleaning.

5. Rinse and Wipe

Tools needed: Cloths, warm water

• Remove residue: After scrubbing, use a damp cloth to wipe away the remaining mould and cleaning solution from the surface.
• Repeat if necessary: For stubborn stains, you may need to repeat the cleaning and scrubbing process until the area is completely clean.

6. Dry the Area Thoroughly

Tools needed: Microfiber cloths, fans (optional)

• Dry the walls: Use a microfiber cloth to thoroughly dry the walls. This is essential, as moisture left behind can encourage mould to return.
• Ensure moisture-free surfaces: If possible, use fans or leave the windows open to aid the drying process and ensure the area remains dry.

7. Dispose of Contaminated Materials

Tools needed: Plastic bags for disposal

Bag up any contaminated materials such as used cleaning cloths, brushes, and protective sheets. Throw them away properly to stop mould spores from spreading to other areas of the kitchen.

How To Prevent Mould From Coming Back

To keep mould at bay and maintain a clean, healthy environment in your commercial kitchen, it’s essential to take proactive measures. Here’s how you can prevent mould from developing in the first place:

1. Improve ventilation: Make sure your extractor fans are powerful enough to remove steam and humidity generated during cooking. If necessary, upgrade to more efficient models to keep the airflow constant and reduce moisture buildup. Open windows and use fans during peak cooking hours to promote airflow and reduce trapped moisture.
2. Control moisture: Inspect pipes, ceilings, and walls regularly for leaks. Water leaks behind walls or under sinks create a perfect breeding ground for mould. If you spot any leaks, make sure to fix them as soon as possible to prevent excess moisture from accumulating in hidden areas.
3. Regular cleaning: Set a regular cleaning schedule that includes wiping down walls and surfaces where moisture can accumulate. Pay extra attention to food preparation and dishwashing areas where moisture levels are higher.
4. Use anti-mould paint: Consider repainting walls with anti-mould or mould-resistant paint. This type of paint is formulated to resist moisture and provide a protective layer.

When to Call in the Professionals

While regular cleaning and preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of mould on walls, sometimes it’s best to leave the job to the experts. Here are some signs that it’s time to call in the professionals:

• Widespread or recurring mould: If mould keeps coming back or covers a large area, it may indicate an underlying issue that needs professional intervention.
• Mould in hard-to-reach areas or behind equipment: Mould often grows in hidden places, such as behind kitchen equipment or inside walls. These areas are difficult to clean thoroughly without the proper tools and expertise.
• Concerns about meeting health and safety standards: Mould growth in a commercial kitchen can lead to non-compliance with health regulations, potentially resulting in fines or business closure. If you're unsure about meeting hygiene standards, it's best to consult a professional.

Don't Let Mould Put Your Kitchen at Risk

Mould in your commercial kitchen is more than just an aesthetic issue—it’s a serious health risk. Left unchecked, it can lead to respiratory problems for your staff, damage your kitchen surfaces, and put you at risk of non-compliance with health and safety regulations.

The longer you delay addressing mould, the worse the problem gets. It spreads quickly, hiding in hard-to-reach areas and creating an unsafe environment that could harm your reputation, affect customer trust, and even result in costly fines or closures.

Taking action now can save you time, money, and stress. Follow the steps outlined to remove mould safely or reach out to KDC for professional help. Our expert team is ready to provide tailored cleaning solutions that keep your kitchen hygienic, compliant, and safe.

Need help with effective mould removal in your commercial kitchen? Contact KDC today for expert advice or to use our kitchen cleaning solutions!

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