Benefect to kill mold.

[JHoll72]

Hi guys,
I was advised on another site that Benefect is a safe way to kill mold. "It is a Canadian product and the active ingredient is oil of Thyme. It is food grade and almost as potent as bleach! You can spray it on all kinds of surfaces and just let it evaporate."
It is fairly cheap at $5.99 for 120ml, just wondering if anyone has heard of it or used it before.
Here is the official site...

http://www.benefect.com/canada/index.html

[JHoll72]

Well, I managed to get a bottle of benefect and have just used it. It has had no ill effects on the wool or cotton. Of course, I can't tell whether it actually killed the mold or not but if you believe in the companies claim and the recommendations I got then this is a good product to kill mould on our militaria.

[Paul R.]

I have never used this product in any type of conservation. I use only tried and true old standard products. It's best to start off with humidity control conduct a WAF search on this topic. Ideal range is 43% - 45% 24/7 365.<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o></o>
Take the item out doors on a bright sunny day. Depends on the how severe the mold is it might need a couple days. Use a medium stiff bristle cloths brush and whisk the area in different areas for several minutes. Other conservators apply a small amount of vinegar and dab it over the area. I would try a test spot first. I have seen the vinegar turn white cotton yellowish. Especially if there is human skin oil on it. <o></o>
Freezing also works. Leave in a plastic bag for at least 36 hours. I have been successful using freezer and sunlight. Paul <o></o>