There is hardly a household that doesn’t have a problem with mold. If you also have had issues with mold in your home, you know how difficult it is to combat it and how unpleasant the smell can be. Trust me, I understand the frustration of dealing with it.
Mold poses potential health risks and can be unsightly and difficult to combat. It also quickly finds its place inside the home! This is because tiny mold spores in the air make their way into your home, either through a window, through your clothes, or in another similar way. By the time they enter the house, it is usually too late. Usually, within a short period, mold growths form, which, in addition to their unsightly appearance, give off an extremely unpleasant smell.
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Mold often appears in damp places such as toilets, kitchens, or walls exposed to moisture from the outside. You can also often see this phenomenon in the cellar or in certain places in the house that are not directly exposed to sunlight.
Since mold spores in the air are between 1 micron and 40 microns in size, an air purifier equipped with a HEPA filter can easily catch them. It should also be noted that modern air purifiers use filtration technologies such as activated carbon filters and UV-C filtration, which help neutralize the unpleasant odor caused by mold.
To make your search easier, I have compiled a list of the top 5 air purifiers that effectively combat mold based on tests I performed. So, breathe easy and say goodbye to the mold smell with these top-rated air purifiers.
Here’s a Summary of The 5 Best Air Purifiers For Mold!
- Levoit Core 600S – This is definitely the best choice and my warm recommendation. It covers rooms up to 635 sq. ft., is equipped with 3-stage filtration technology, and fights mold effectively.
- Winix 5500-2 – This is one of the best air purifiers on the market. It uses 4-stage filtration technology, the pre-filter and carbon filters are washable, and it is designed for rooms up to 360 sq. ft.
- RabbitAir MinusA2 – This air purifier uses a unique 6-stage filtration technology and covers rooms up to 815 sq. ft., and is definitely an excellent choice in the fight against mold.
- Blueair 411 – This small air purifier covers rooms up to 161 sq. ft. It has quality filters, is easy to maintain, and I recommend it for some smaller spaces.
- GermGuardian AC4825 – It differs from the others on the list in that it uses UV-C light as an additional level of filtration. It is a reliable and efficient air purifier that covers rooms up to 167 sq. ft.
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Top 5 Air Purifiers For Mold
Before delving into the list of the best air purifiers for mold, it’s important to note that while an air purifier can trap mold spores in the air, it can’t destroy pre-existing mold already attached to the wall.
However, an air purifier can effectively prevent mold from forming in the home and neutralize the unpleasant odors caused by mold. Most importantly, it can significantly reduce the health symptoms caused by mold. But, while it may not be able to remove mold already attached to the wall entirely, it can make a difference in reducing the overall concentration of mold spores in the air.
Levoit Core 600S – Best Overall
Levoit Core 600S Highlights
- The Levoit Core 600S is a large air purifier that covers rooms up to 635 sq. ft.
- This air purifier uses 3-stage filtration technology consisting of a pre-filter, True HEPA filter, and activated carbon filter.
- The Core 600S is extremely affordable, highly efficient, and easy to use.
- Levoit provides a 2-year warranty on this model.
The Levoit Core 600S is a smart air purifier designed for large spaces of up to 635 sq. ft. Equipped with a three-stage filtration system, including a True HEPA filter, it efficiently traps mold spores in the air. I also want to praise the carbon pellet-based filter, which makes the Core 600S excellent at neutralizing unpleasant odors.
Moreover, this model comes with advanced options such as an air quality sensor, air quality indicator, auto mode, and a smart app. While not essential for operation, they enhance everyday usage.
The Core 600S is characterized by its powerful airflow, attractive design, and affordable, long-lasting filters. It also features QuietKEAP, enabling it to filter air efficiently while operating quietly. This feature makes it ideal for use in bedrooms, especially for those dealing with mold issues in there. The silent operation won’t disrupt your sleep.
Overall, the Levoit Core 600S is my top recommendation if you want to prevent mold formation or neutralize unpleasant odors caused by mold. It’s the best air purifier for mold!
| Filters | Pre-filter, True HEPA Filter, and Activated Carbon Filter |
| Coverage | 635 sq. ft. |
| Power Consumption | 49W |
| Warranty | 2-year |
Winix 5500-2 – Also Great
Winix 5500-2 Highlights
- The Winix 5500-2 is a medium-sized air purifier designed for rooms up to 360 sq. ft.
- It uses 4-stage filtration technology, among which I would highlight the high-quality True HEPA filter and the activated carbon filter.
- Advanced options such as an air quality sensor, air quality indicator, auto mode, and remote control are all part of this Winix model.
- The Winix 5500-2 comes with a 2-year warranty.
The Winix 5500-2 is one of the best air purifiers I have tested so far. Despite its slightly outdated design and lack of smart options, this air purifier excels in more critical features, such as its 4-stage filtration technology, air quality sensor, and auto mode.
Featuring a pre-filter, True HEPA filter, AOC activated carbon filter, and PlasmaWave technology, the Winix delivers exceptional filtration performance. Its True HEPA filter captures mold spores and other small particles in the air, while its AOC carbon filter provides added protection against unpleasant odors. The PlasmaWave technology breaks down pollutants, including odors, leaving the air fresh and clean.
Advanced options include an air quality sensor, auto mode, and remote control. However, it should be noted that the air quality sensor only detects odors in real time, not PM2.5 particles. Additionally, the Winix 5500-2 boasts long-lasting filters, which can last up to 12 months.
All in all, I highly recommend the Winix 5500-2, especially if you’re looking for an air purifier to neutralize odors caused by the appearance of mold.
| Filters | Washable Pre-filter, Washable AOC Carbon Filter, and True HEPA Filter |
| Coverage | 360 sq. ft. |
| Power Consumption | 70W |
| Warranty | 2-year |
RabbitAir MinusA2 – Outstanding Filtration Technology
RabbitAir MinusA2 Highlights
- RabbitAir MinusA2 covers rooms up to 815 sq. ft.
- It uses a 6-stage filtration technology that is among the most sophisticated on the market.
- It does not need a lot of energy to work and uses an engine with a power of only 61W.
- RabbitAir gives a very generous warranty of up to 5 years on this model.
The RabbitAir MinusA2 makes the list of best air purifiers for mold due to its high-quality and distinctive filtration technology. This air purifier uses a 6-stage filtration technology that includes a pre-filter, medium filter, BioGS HEPA filter, custom filter, activated carbon filter, and negative ion generator. The filtration system is highly effective at removing air pollutants, making it an excellent choice for mold spores and unpleasant odors.
The design of the RabbitAir MinusA2 is also noteworthy, especially with the option to hang it on the wall. However, the best thing about MinusA2 is the BioGS HEPA filter that can remove almost all air pollutants at rapid speed.
The RabbitAir MinusA2 is a powerful air purifier with fantastic filtration technology that efficiently traps mold spores and neutralizes unpleasant odors in your home.
| Filters | Pre-filter, Medium Filter, BioGS HEPA Filter, Customized Filter, Activated Carbon Filter and Negative Ion Generator |
| Coverage | 815 sq. ft. |
| Power Consumption | 61W |
| Warranty | 5-year |
Blueair 411 – Small & Affordable
Blueair 411 Highlights
- The Blueair 411 is a small air purifier designed for rooms up to 161 sq. ft.
- This air purifier uses a 3-stage filtration technology consisting of a pre-filter, a particulate filter, and a carbon filter.
- Affordable maintenance, quiet during operation, low power consumption, and highly efficient air cleaning make this model the best.
- Blueair provides a 2-year warranty on this model.
The Blueair 411 is a compact air purifier designed for small spaces, featuring minimalism, ease of use, and excellent performance.
This air purifier uses 3-stage filtration technology with the addition of HEPASilent technology. HEPASilent is actually an ionizer that is always on, but it is important to point out that this device is CARB certified, which means that it does not produce unallowed amounts of ozone. The Blueair 411 also features a washable pre-filter, which is also available in several different colors.
As a long-standing company in the air purifier market, Blueair is known for making reliable and efficient devices. While the Blueair 411 lacks some advanced options, it can effectively combat mold in small rooms. Furthermore, this air purifier is an energy saver with cheap filters, making it a highly affordable option for maintenance.
In conclusion, the Blueair 411 is a recommended choice for those who want an efficient and budget-friendly air purifier for mold in small rooms.
| Filters | Washable Pre-filter, Particle Filter, and Carbon Filter |
| Coverage | 161 sq. ft. |
| Power Consumption | 10W |
| Warranty | 2-year |
GermGuardian AC4825 – With UV-C Light
GermGuardian AC4825 Highlights
- The GermGuardian AC4825 is a small air purifier designed for rooms up to 167 sq. ft.
- This air purifier uses 3-stage filtration technology, which is most credited for its fantastic test performance.
- There are no advanced options; it uses a mechanical wheel, which means it can be plugged into a smart plug and has a filter reset indicator.
- The GermGuardian AC4825 comes with a 3-year warranty.
I would like to point out right away that the reason why the GermGuardian AC4825 made it onto the list of the best air purifiers for mold is that it uses slightly different filtration technology than the other devices mentioned. This air purifier basically uses 3-stage filtration technology consisting of a pre-filter with charcoal, a true HEPA filter, and UV-C light. It found its place on the list because of the UV-C light, which can destroy airborne particles rather than trap them like the other filters.
The GermGuardian AC4825 is still one of the best 3-in-1 air purifiers for the home. Thanks to its powerful motor and decent filtration system, it remains a popular choice among consumers. People are delighted with this air purifier, meaning it works well.
While I don’t like the slightly outdated design, I don’t think that’s so important because the GermGuardian works very well, as shown in all the tests. In addition, it is one of the most popular and reliable air purifiers on the market, which is a testament to its quality. This air purifier is also a perfect choice in the fight against mold and is my warm recommendation for purchase.
| Filters | Pre/Charcoal Filter, True HEPA Filter, and UV-C Light |
| Coverage | 167 sq. ft. |
| Power Consumption | 55W |
| Warranty | 3-year |
How Dangerous is Mold in Your Home?
Based on personal experience, I can confirm that mold in a home can pose a significant health risk. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), mold exposure can cause respiratory problems, such as coughing and wheezing, as well as allergic reactions, such as sneezing and skin irritation. In some cases, mold exposure can also lead to more severe health problems, such as asthma, lung infections, and even neurological issues.
It is also important to note that mold can be hazardous for people with weakened immune systems, such as infants, elderly individuals, and those with chronic illnesses. These groups may be more susceptible to the harmful effects of mold and may experience more severe symptoms than others.
This research has shown that as many as 24% of households in the USA may contain mold. This is a concerning statistic and highlights the need for homeowners to take proactive steps to prevent and mitigate mold growth in their homes.
Mold can cause several respiratory diseases, trigger various allergies and, in any case, be detrimental to your health. It is, therefore, best to reduce mold in the house, eradicate it or avoid breathing it and being exposed to it altogether.
Do Air Purifiers Prevent Mold?
Air purifiers can be an effective tool in preventing and reducing mold growth in your home. By filtering the air and removing mold spores, air purifiers can help to prevent the spread of mold and reduce the risk of health problems associated with exposure.
However, it is important to note that air purifiers can’t remove pre-existing mold that has adhered to a surface. If you have an existing mold problem in your home, it is essential to take additional steps:
- Find and fix various problems, whether ventilation, insulation, or something else.
- Hire a professional or agency to remove the mold.
- Remove the contaminated part, thoroughly clean the mold’s surface, and then do whatever you can to prevent it from reappearing.
- Many people use methods of drying walls with a heater to kill mold.
For example, my parent’s house has a room right next to the garage, which is not well insulated. The north side is exposed to high humidity, which is why a lot of moisture appeared inside the room (this problem goes back a long time). Before I started researching and testing air purifiers, I found it impossible to sleep in this room, mainly because I got a headache after staying in it for more than 30 minutes, mainly because of the highly unpleasant smell of mold. This can be partially reduced by opening the window, but not always and not completely. That said, I have used this room to test air purifiers and see whether and how effectively they can help to neutralize the odors in this room. What I have noticed is that when the air purifier is working, I can easily stay in the room, as there is almost no mold smell.
These tests have confirmed what an air purifier can and can’t do. It is important to differentiate and draw the line regarding the effectiveness of an air purifier in the fight against mold. I will repeat it again: an air purifier can be extremely useful in preventing mold formation, the spread of mold, and neutralizing unpleasant mold odors, but it can’t remove pre-existing mold.
FAQ on Best Air Purifiers For Mold
Which air purifier is best for mold?
Basically, an air purifier can prevent mold from forming and remove the unpleasant odors caused by it. This means that an air purifier equipped with a True HEPA filter and activated charcoal is the best choice for mold.
Do air purifiers help with mold?
They definitely do! Air purifiers neutralize the unpleasant odor caused by mold and prevent it from occurring by trapping mold particles in the air before they stick to the wall or other surfaces.
Does the HEPA filter capture mold spores?
Sure, it does! Mold spores range in size from 1 micron to 40 microns, and a HEPA filter can trap particles down to 0.3 microns, which means this filter will do the job without a problem.
How do you know if you have mold in your house?
Generally speaking, there isn’t a person who isn’t bothered by mold in some way. An allergy to mold can cause coughing, itchy eyes, and other similar symptoms. In some people, mold allergy is also associated with asthma.
What is the best way to prevent mold growth in my house?
In addition to good insulation, drying surfaces where mold is present and hiring a professional, using air purifiers is one of the best ways to prevent mold growth.
Final Thoughts
We have seen that mold is a significant problem in many households. In this article, I’ve explained why this phenomenon is harmful, how to prevent it, and how to minimize the negative health effects that mold can cause.
In short, buying an air purifier is a great investment, whether you have a problem with mold in the house or want to prevent the possible development of mold.
To simplify the purchasing decision, I suggest going for the Levoit Core 600S air purifier as the best choice, with the Winix 5500-2 model right behind it. If you have any questions or confusion on this topic, please leave a comment in the comments box below.
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