Living in Naples, FL, Marco Island, Bonita Springs, Cape Coral, or Fort Myers, you know that Florida’s humidity is no joke. Unfortunately, that same humidity that makes our weather so lush also invites mold to grow — especially on outdoor surfaces like your lanai screens. Mold isn’t just ugly; it can damage your screens and even trigger health issues if left unchecked.
Here’s a simple, safe way to remove mold from your lanai screens and keep your outdoor space fresh and clean.
Why Mold Grows on Lanai Screens
Mold thrives in warm, damp environments — a perfect match for Southwest Florida’s climate. Screens collect moisture from rain, morning dew, and even sprinkler systems. Add in the shade from a pool cage or patio cover, and you’ve got the ideal environment for mold spores to settle and grow.
Mold on lanai screens isn’t just a cosmetic problem. Over time, mold can weaken the fibers of your screen, causing it to tear or sag. That’s why regular cleaning is important for extending the life of your lanai and protecting your investment.
Safe Steps to Remove Mold from Your Lanai Screens
1. Gather Your Supplies
You’ll need:
- A soft brush or sponge
- A bucket of warm water
- Mild dish soap or white vinegar
- A hose (or low-pressure power washer)
- Gloves and safety glasses
Tip: Stay away from bleach. While it’s a strong cleaner, it can damage your screens and nearby landscaping.
2. Rinse the Screens
Start by rinsing your lanai screens with a garden hose. This will loosen surface dirt and make the mold easier to remove.
If you’re using a power washer, keep it on a low setting. High pressure can rip or stretch your screens, especially if they are already weakened.
3. Apply Your Cleaning Solution
Mix a few drops of dish soap or a cup of white vinegar into a gallon of warm water. Using your brush or sponge, gently scrub the screens with the solution. Focus on moldy areas but don’t forget the corners and frames where mold tends to hide.
Important: Always scrub lightly. Hard scrubbing can stretch or tear the screen material.
4. Let It Sit
After scrubbing, let the cleaning solution sit on the screens for about 10–15 minutes. This gives it time to kill the mold spores without harming the material.
5. Rinse Again
After letting it sit, thoroughly rinse the screens with your hose to remove all soap, vinegar, and loosened mold.
6. Let the Screens Dry Completely
Allow the lanai screens to air dry fully. Good airflow will help ensure mold doesn’t grow right back.
If your screens dry unevenly or stay damp in spots, it might be a sign that the screen mesh is damaged — and it could be time for a rescreening.
How to Prevent Mold Growth on Lanai Screens
Once you’ve cleaned your lanai screens, you’ll want to keep mold from coming back. Here are a few tips:
- Trim nearby plants to allow better airflow and sunlight.
- Clean the screens lightly every few months, even if they look fine.
- Inspect for drainage issues around your patio or pool cage that could keep moisture trapped.
- Rescreen damaged sections to avoid areas where water can pool and mold can hide.
Keeping up with maintenance doesn’t just make your lanai look better — it protects the structure and saves you money on major repairs later.
Professional Help for Stubborn Mold
If mold keeps coming back even after regular cleanings, or if you notice your screens sagging, ripping, or staining, it might be time to call in the pros.
At Best Rescreen Company in Naples, FL, we specialize in restoring and rescreening lanais, pool cages, patios, and more throughout Marco Island, Bonita Springs, Cape Coral, and Fort Myers.
We offer high-quality screen materials that are resistant to moisture and mold, including Super Screen and Florida Glass privacy screen options. Our team provides free estimates and honest advice on whether you need a cleaning, repair, or full rescreen.
Contact Best Rescreen Company Today!
Protect your lanai and enjoy a cleaner, healthier outdoor space.
Call us today at (239) 344-7774 or visit us at 5660 Strand Ct Unit A244, Naples, FL 34110.
For more information, visit our website: bestrescreenco.com.
Don’t let mold take over your lanai — Best Rescreen Company has you covered!
