How to Remove Mold From Houseplant Soil (Step‑by‑Step Guide)

See a fuzzy film on your potting mix? Relax. Most surface mold is <em>saprophytic—ugly but easy to evict. You only need basic kitchen tools, a sprinkle of pantry anti-fungal, and about ten minutes.

Not sure why the mold showed up? Diagnose the root problem in our Causes of Mold in Houseplant Soil Guide.

Grab These Supplies First

• Teaspoon or small scoop
• Paper towel or newspaper (to catch debris)
• Cinnamon or 1 Tbsp baking soda + 1 qt water (spray bottle)
• Optional: neem‑oil spray for leaves
• Gloves if you’re allergy‑prone

5 Quick Steps to a Mold‑Free Pot

1. Scrape Off the Moldy Layer

Use a teaspoon or small trowel to gently remove the top 1–2cm (½–¾inch) of soil. Drop it straight into the trash—composting can spread spores

2. Let the Soil Breathe

Set the plant in a bright, breezy spot for 24 hours. The goal: top inch feels dry to the touch.

3. Apply a Natural Antifungal

• Cinnamon: Lightly coat the surface. Cinnamaldehyde inhibits fungal growth.
• Baking‑soda spray: 1 Tbsp baking soda + 1 qt water + few drops dish soap. Mist once; repeat in a week if needed.
• Optional: Neem‑oil drench (0.5 tsp neem + 1 qt warm water) for stubborn spots.

4. Boost Airflow & Light

Mold hates moving air and sunlight. Rotate the pot a foot closer to a bright window or run a clip‑on fan for a few hours daily.

5. Monitor for 7 Days

If mold reappears, repeat Steps 1‑3. Persistent comeback? Jump to the re-pot checklist below.

When to Skip Straight to Repotting

• Soil smells sour or like mushrooms
• White fuzz returns twice within a week
• Roots visible on surface look brown or mushy

Re-pot with fresh, well‑draining mix (add 20 % perlite) and rinse the old pot with hot, soapy water.

Keep Mold Gone for Good

Complete the cycle with our Prevention Checklist →