To prevent your glue from getting moldy, you need to store it properly. When the glue is not stored where it should be, it is more likely to get moldy.
Mold thrives on moisture and in a warm environment. So if you are storing your glue in a wet place, especially one that has been opened, this could lead to mold forming on top or everywhere in your glue.
Mold generally forms inside the tube or container, rarely outside.
How To Tell If The Glue Is Moldy
Mold inside your glue tube can look several different ways. This type of fungus doesn’t come in one color alone.
When you open the glue tube, you may see green, black, pink, or other colored spots.
Besides a noticeable color, mold also generally has a distinct smell. Mold tends to smell like earth or musk.
How To Prevent Glue From Getting Moldy
To prevent your glue from getting moldy, you need to store it properly.
Not every type of glue should be stored the same way. For example, some glues can be stored in the fridge, but this is not recommended for other adhesives.
But generally, regardless of the glue type, you need to follow these guidelines:
- Seal the lid/ cap tight after use
- Store in a cool and dry place
- Keep away from direct sunlight
- Keep it away from heat sources
Don’t keep your glue where moisture and temperature levels are high.
What To Do If The Glue Got Moldy?
Many ask us how to remove the mold from the glue.
If your glue is already moldy, you should not try to remove it, even if it seems the mold is only on the surface.
Just because the mold is visible mainly on the surface does not mean that it has not spread to the rest of the glue.
If your glue is moldy, the only thing you can and should do is throw it out.
Mold affects the effectiveness of your glue. But it also presents serious health concerns, including respiratory complications.
Follow these steps if your glue gets moldy:
- Leave the glue sealed and dispose of it using gloves to avoid contact with it with your skin – if you can, also wear a protective mask to avoid breathing it in
- Clean the area with a solution made specifically to clean and disinfect a moldy area – be as thorough as you possibly can
- If you think you have been exposed to the mold, consult with a doctor as a safety precaution
Frequently Asked Questions
Does mold grow on glue?
If the glue is water-based, and if there is moisture and higher temperature levels, mold can grow.
Can I still use my glue with just a little bit of mold on it?
No. You need to dispose of the glue immediately at the slightest sign of mold.
How can I fix a glue that is getting moldy?
Using any product that has already shown evidence of mold negatively affects the product and the environment. Do not try to scrape off the mold. Trying to remove the mold may result in it spreading even more.
Conclusion
The key aspect in preventing the glue from getting moldy is how and where you store it.
You should never store the glue in higher moisture and temperature environments.
If the storage spot is wet, it isn’t good.
Always store the glue in a dry and cool place, away from moisture, direct sunlight, and other heat sources, to prevent it from getting moldy.
