Tips to clean and prevent mold
Mold grows on plant and animal matter. It is essential for the environment because it breaks down dead material and recycles nutrients. Mold spores act like seeds that spread through air, water, and insects. Humidity, adequate light, and average temperatures are essential for fungal growth. These conditions are fairly easy to meet, allowing molds to be found practically everywhere. This includes your home and surroundings.
Mold spores adhere to humans and animals and can be transported through the air. Due to human and animal activity, it is easy for fungi to enter your home. The simple act of opening a window can invite mold spores to settle in your home. It can stick to your shoes before entering your home, depositing spores in areas conducive to mold growth. It can also cause damage to your health and property. Extensive mold growth in your home means that living in it is not safe for you or your family’s health. These reasons are enough to show why mold cleaning is a necessary part of home maintenance.
Mold is generally found in places where there are floods, roof leaks, and leaky pipes. The bathroom is one of the most common places where mold can be found. You also have a high chance of finding them under carpets, damp basements, and wet clothing. Wherever there is moisture, a small amount of light, and the average temperature is a possible area for mold growth. When trying to get rid of mold, the first thing to do is determine the source of the moisture. Among the three conditions, this is the most controllable. Once the source is known it needs to be corrected and then you can proceed to clean it up. Wet materials must be dried or disposed of completely.
It is safer to wear a respiratory mask and gloves when cleaning mold. It’s best to leave an extensive mold infestation for the professionals, especially if you are very sensitive to it. Small patches of fungal growth can be cleaned with diluted detergent. If you are sure that the source of moisture has been completely removed, a bleaching agent is not necessary. Mold cannot grow in places where there is no moisture. However, if the source of moisture cannot be removed, a 10% bleach solution can be used for control purposes. Cleaning with bleach is very effective on green mold, black mold, and all other types.
Mold prevention generally depends on the absence of moisture. Recognizing the signs of growth can also help you get rid of the problem sooner. A musty or moldy smell is the most common sign. Water spots are usually the first noticeable visual sign. Mold is slightly fuzzy, discolored, or slimy. The most common places for growth are showers, bathroom tiles, shower curtains, refrigerator doors, window trim, and air conditioners; however, the walls, carpets, and cabinets are not exempt. Check your home regularly for signs of mold growth. Prevention depends on how well you keep moisture out of the house. Regular cleaning helps prevent mold from infesting your home. Maintain adequate ventilation because mold will not grow in dry places. If you know how to prevent mold and clean it in the early stages, professional mold cleaning will not be necessary.
Mold is necessary for the environment, but it is a health hazard in the home. People allergic to mold can compromise their health if they are exposed to it. Even healthy people can develop mold-related health problems if they frequently inhale or come in contact with mold spores. Knowing how to prevent mold and clean up mold can save you and your family the potential health problems that mold can bring.