Best air purifiers for mold spores: Breathe cleaner, healthier air

For many homeowners mold spores are an issue. These minute particles, which come from mold, exist in the air, especially in moist or poorly ventilated areas. Inhaling mold spores can cause health issues like sneezing, coughing, allergies, and asthma attacks.

Using an air purifier to help with mold and mildew is one way to eliminate damaging particles. Some possess HEPA filters, which, in addition to capturing mold spores and dust, use activated carbon filters that can target bad odors and chemicals. Some models also include UV-C light to kill mold and germs. These days, many new air purifiers also include smart features, such as sensors and mobile apps, that make them a breeze to control.

Mold Spores and Indoor Air Quality

Mold spores are small particles that mold releases to help it reproduce. These spores are so tiny that no one can see them without a microscope. They can easily float in the air and land on walls, floors or furniture. Mold spores are ubiquitous inside, particularly in damp areas such as bathrooms, basements and kitchens. When those areas are moist, mold grows, and additional spores are released into the air.

Mold thrives in humidity as well. Mold requires moisture to thrive, so keeping the air dry can help prevent it. Reducing indoor humidity can be achieved by running a dehumidifier or setting up good ventilation in moist spaces. Pairing it with an air purifier also discourages mold growth and keeps the air fresh and healthy.

Key Filtration Technologies

Air purifiers use a variety of technologies to clean the air. Some are more effective than others in filtering out mold spores and the odors they generate.

1. True HEPA Filters

Good air purifiers feature a True HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter. It’s built to capture 99.97% of small particles as tiny as 0.3 microns. Most mold spores are within this size range, so HEPA filters are very efficient for mold removal.

Some high-end HEPA air purifiers for mold spores, like H13 or H14 HEPA are used in hospitals and provide even better filtration. These filters can also take out dust, pollen and pet dander from the air.

2. Activated Carbon Filters

The activated carbon filters are composed of special carbon with small pores. These openings hold gases, odors and toxins known as VOCs (volatile organic compounds). Mold emits a musty smell, in addition to producing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from its growth.

Carbon filters are not effective at trapping mold spores, but they are very effective at eliminating the odors associated with mold problems. A purifier with a HEPA filter and a carbon filter can more thoroughly clean the air, getting rid of particles and odors. 

3. UV-C Light

Some high-end air purifiers use a UV-C ray to kill mold spores and germs. UV-C is a type of ultraviolet light that kills mold and bacteria by damaging their DNA, preventing them from growing and spreading. This could be a nice extra feature for households that are especially prone to mold.

4. Photocatalytic Oxidation

Other purifiers may operate using photocatalytic oxidation (PCO). This process involves the activation of UV light on a specific surface, frequently composed of titanium dioxide, resulting in the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). These particles disintegrate mold, bacteria and even dangerous gases. However, those systems typically come only from higher-end or purpose-built air purifiers.

5. Ionizers and Ozone Generators (With Caution)

Ionizers emit negatively charged ions into the air. These ions adhere to particles much like mold spores, so that they drop from the air or adhere to surfaces where they can be wiped away. Although ionizers can help decrease airborne mold spores, they cannot kill them.

Some ionizers and ozone generators additionally generate ozone, which can kill mold, as well as remove odors. But ozone can be bad for people and pets when used in high doses. Prolonged exposure to ozone can lead to breathing difficulties or further aggravate asthma. For this reason, use of an ozone-based purifier should be used judiciously and only in an unoccupied setting as required.

Determining the Right Size and CADR

It’s the right design for the room that will decide the right air purifier. When it comes to cleaning the air, especially where mold spores are concerned, a too-small air purifier won’t be able to do a good enough job.

Calculating Room Coverage

Look at the CADR to determine if an air purifier is strong enough. This rating is an indication of how fast the purifier can rid the air of a room. A good rule of thumb is a CADR that is at least 2/3 the size of the room in square feet. For instance, a 300-square-foot room would require an air purifier with a CADR of no less than 200.

Another useful metric is ACH – Air Changes per Hour. This says how many times the air is cleaned in the room in an hour. For mold abatement, it is best to shoot for about 4–5 ACH, or filtering out the entire amount of air in 12 to 15 minutes.

Portable vs Whole Home Systems

There are a couple of different types of mold removing air purifiers:

• Portable air purifiers are designed forpersonal spaces. They’re easy to move, plug in and use immediately. These are ideal for bedrooms, living rooms or basements, which are more likely to become victims of mold.
• Whole-home systems are installed within a home’s HVAC system. These can purify the air in the entire home, but they are more expensive and typically require professional installation.

Placement Tips

The slot of air cleaner should be installed in the middle of room, or far away from room corner or under the table. It is perforated so that air can easily flow through the filter. It should also be positioned in the room where people are typically present, to get an accurate read where mold is most likely to grow, for instance, in basements or bathrooms.

Smart Features and Usability

Today’s air purifiers include smart capabilities that allow them to work better and function more easily. These details assist users in being aware of the air quality and running the purifier at the right setting.

Air‑Quality Sensors and Auto Modes

Some air purifiers have built-in sensors that sample the air for dust, smoke or mold spores. It can automatically raise the fan speed when the air turns dirty. This mode is called auto mode, and it creates energy savings while cleaning of the air is automated when necessary.

App Control and Connectivity

Many newer air purifiers can connect to a smartphone app. Through the app, users can:

• Control the air purifier from anywhere remotely.
• Monitor real-time air quality levels.
• Receive notifications when the filter needs changing.

It can also help clean the purifier easily even when the user is not at home.

Noise Levels and Energy Consumption

It’s a balance between cleaning power and noise. Some purifiers are extremely quiet, particularly on low settings, making them ideal for bedrooms or nursery use. Make sure to look at the decibel (dB) rating for noise and the amount of electricity it uses on the energy usage label. Most purifiers these days are designed to be lower in power whilst still performing well.

5 Best Air Purifiers for Mold Spores

Here are 5 of the best air purifiers for allergies and mold that are made to kill mold spores, taking into account a variety of features to meet varying needs.  All are available at Growcycle.

1. Airganics 1000 (115V 60Hz) Filtered Air Purifier

The Airganics 1000 is a commercial grade mold removing air purifier and is perfect for keeping large spaces mold free. It provides 1,000 CFM of airflow and can cover up to 1,875 square feet. This purifier is equipped with a three-stage “Carbon Fusion” filter, which consists of a pre-filter, a carbon-pleated filter and an optional HEPA filter upgrade. It does a great job of trapping mold spores and odors, but is completely ozone free, so it’s perfect for large areas that could be prone to mold, like basements.

• Coverage: Up to 1,875 sq ft
• Filtration: Pre-filter, Carbon Fusion tray, Carbon-pleated (optional HEPA)
• Airflow: 1,000 CFM
• Why it’s great: Offers high airflow for large spaces, and features effective carbon fusion technology to neutralize spores and odors.

2. Air Purifier 500 - The Protector

The  Air Purifier 500, “The Protector,” is intended for industrial applications where large, open areas need to be treated with the highest level of protection. It relies on a True HEPA filter, activated carbon and UV-C light to capture mold spores, eliminate odors and kill germs.

It has a 500 CFM airflow rate, and is designed for spaces of 500 to 800 square feet. It also comes with stackable design options and a power outlet for additional equipment, so it is great for remediation work.

• Coverage: ~500–800 sq ft
• Filtration: Pre-filter, HEPA, Activated Carbon, UV-C
• Why it’s great: HEPA and UV-C are combined to control mold and odors in small commercial spaces.

3. Airganics 700 (115V 60Hz) Filtered Air Purifier

The Airganics 700 is a smaller version of the Airganics 1000, and is made for smaller areas. It has an airflow of 700 CFM and covers up to 1,000 square feet. Scrub the (you have to wear glasses) screen and the tray and then, like the 1000 model, it has a three-stage system for purification, including a pre-filter, carbon fusion tray, and a carbon-pleated filter.

The optional HEPA air purifier for mold spores has even better abilities for mold-spore removal, meaning this purifier is excellent for medium-sized rooms.

• Coverage: Up to 1,000 sq ft
• Filtration: Carbon Fusion tray, Pre-filter, Carbon-pleated (HEPA optional)
• Airflow: 200–700 CFM (variable speed)
• Why it’s great: It has adjustable airflow and includes all the advanced features most people want for mold remediation in medium-sized rooms

4. Airoclean420 XL – SteriLumen

For bigger areas, the Airoclean420 XL is a dedicated HVAC solution. This air purifier is perfect for rooms ranging between 5,000–7,000 cubic feet, so it’s great for bigger grow rooms or commercial environments. Rather than just trapping the mold spore, the Airoclean420 XL operates by way of Photocatalytic Oxidation (PCO), a process that creates oxidizing molecules that decompose and obliterate spores and other pathogens.

This method is very effective in controlling mold and no ozone is emitted making it safe to use continuously.

• Coverage: 5,000–7,000 cubic feet
• Technology: Photocatalytic Oxidation (PCO) with ROS generation
• Why it’s great: It completely eliminates mold spores and other dangerous microscopic particles at the molecular level and releases no ozone.

5. Cerene Air Ceiling: Advanced In-Ceiling Air Purification

The CereneAir Ceiling is a sleek air purifier that is installed directly into the ceiling, discreetly removing mold spores and odor around the clock. Its patented biocide reactor technology breaks down mold and bacteria without any harsh chemicals or ozone.

It easily installs above ceiling tiles for continuous, low maintenance mold control in offices, schools, and similar large spaces.

• Installation: Fits standard 2x2 ft ceiling grid
• Technology: Patented biocide reactor (no ozone)
• Why it’s great: Maintenance-free, always-on protection against mold and bacteria without the need for filters.

Maintenance and Filter Replacement

Regular maintenance and filter changing is a vital necessity to help the air purifier for basement mold work well. The maintenance requirements will vary between models, so it’s important to know how to look after the unit so that it will last a long while.

Filter Lifespan and Costs

Filters in air purifiers aren’t meant to last forever. Eventually, they get clogged with dirt, dust, and mold spores, and their efficacy declines. Here are some general rules:

• HEPA filters: Generally require replacement every 12 to 18 months. Lifespan can depend on air quality in the home or office, and how often the purifier is used.
• Carbon filters: Typically, these last about 6 to 12 months (unless odors or VOCs are more pronounced in the air).
• UV-C lamps: UV-C light bulbs generally last about 9,000 hours, which is approximately the equivalent of using for 1 year nonstop.

DIY Cleaning for Washable Components

Some air purifiers also have washable pre-filters or carbon filters that can be cleaned, not replaced. Regular maintenance helps to prolong the life of these parts and keeps the purifier running efficiently. Here's how to clean them:

1. Unplug the air purifier and turn it off.
2. Detach washable filters with care.
3. They can be cleaned, requiring a little bit of gentle vacuuming or hand washing with water. If they are washable, do so, making sure they’re completely dry before reinstalling them.
4. Refer to the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions to prevent damage to the filters.

Even with regular care, mold removing air purifier may lose its effectiveness. If users see any of these indications, it means it may be time to think about getting a new unit:

• Reduced airflow: If the air purifier for basement mold no longer circulates air as well as it should, that could be because there’s a problem with the motor or another internal part.
• Persistent odors or mold: If moldy smells or musty odors come back after the filter has been replaced, the system may not be adequately filtering out mold spores.
• Unusual noises: Grinding, rattling, and other strange noises are an indicator that the motor or fan is on its way out.
• Increased energy consumption: If the machine is utilizing more power than normal, it could be due for a repair or replacement.

Mold control and air purification can also be improved by upgrading to a model with more effective filtration or innovative technologies, such as UV-C light or Photocatalytic Oxidation (PCO).

FAQs

Which air purifier is best for mold spores?

The top air purifier for mold and mildew spores generally utilizes HEPA filters in conjunction with UV-C light or Photocatalytic Oxidation (PCO) technology. These features combine to entrap and kill, or render dormant, mold spores. Well known models such as the Airganics 1000 and Protector 500 are extremely high-airflow, HEPA filtered and UV-C light equipped for great mold control.

What type of air filter is best for mold?

True HEPA filters are the most effective traps for mold spores, capable of catching particles as small as 0.3 microns. Carbon activated filters also help remove mold-related odors and VOCs (volatile organic compounds). To work most effectively, many air purifiers do combine these filters with further technology such as UV-C light to kill spores.

Do air purifiers remove mold from the air?

Yes, air purifiers with HEPA filters or UV-C light can remove mold spores from the air. The spores are captured by the HEPA filter and can be killed or deactivated by the UV-C light. When combined, air purifiers employing a mix of these two technologies are particularly helpful in minimizing mold in the home.

The Bottom Line

Mold spores can be bad for people’s health and for the air in homes or buildings, particularly if the air has become too moist, often in places where water gets in and won’t dry out. Opening a good air purifier is a simple and effective way to improve air quality.

Check Growcycle to see different good quality air purifiers for mold and mildew which are designed to combat mold. No matter if users need a small unit for a single room or a powerful purifier for larger areas, they can cover a diverse spectrum of room sizes and needs. Most of these purifiers are smart and low-maintenance as well. 

Disclaimer: This material is for informational purposes only and should not be relied on for legal, medical, financial, or any other form of professional advice.

About the Author

Victor Miller

Environmental Journalist Focused on Sustainable Agriculture

Victor Miller is an environmental journalist at Growcycle, specializing in sustainable agriculture. With a passion for storytelling, he highlights the latest trends, innovations, and practices that promote ecological balance and responsible farming.