What is Mould and Why is it a Problem?
Mould is a type of fungus that grows in damp places. It can be different colors, like black, green, or white. Mould spreads by releasing tiny spores that float through the air. When the spores land on a wet surface, they can start growing new mould.
Mould is a problem because it can damage materials in your home and make you sick. Some health effects from mould exposure include:
- Allergic reactions like runny nose, eye irritation, coughing, and skin rashes
- Asthma attacks in people with asthma who are allergic to mould
- Respiratory problems like wheezing and difficulty breathing
- Infections that can occur in people with weakened immune systems
So it’s important to control mould growth in your home.
How to Prevent Mould Growth
Here are some tips to help prevent mould growth in your home:
1. Control Moisture
Moisture is the main factor that allows mould to grow. Here are some ways to reduce moisture:
- Use exhaust fans when cooking, showering, and doing laundry
- Ventilate bathrooms by opening windows or running fans after showering
- Use a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture in damp rooms like basements
- Fix water leaks quickly to prevent moisture buildup
- Increase ventilation by opening windows periodically if the humidity is high
2. Avoid Excess Clutter
Clutter provides more surfaces for mould to grow on. Make sure closets, storage areas, and other spaces prone to dampness are clean and organized. Get rid of items you don’t need.
3. Raise the AC Temperature
Cooler temperatures cause excess moisture to condense. Keep your AC between 70-80°F in humid months to discourage condensation.
4. Clean and Disinfect Regularly
Cleaning kills mould and removes its food source. Use a mix of 1 cup bleach to 1 gallon of water. First scrub with soap and water, then disinfect with the bleach solution. Focus on bathrooms, basements, and kitchens.
5. Be Careful with Carpets and Fabrics
Carpets and fabrics easily trap moisture and mould spores. Limit carpeting in damp rooms like basements. Wash shower curtains, towels, and other damp textiles weekly. Let or dry them fully outside if possible. Consider switching to vinyl or leather furniture.
What to Do if You Already Have Mould
If you already see or smell mould in your home, take action right away:
- Wear goggles, gloves, and a respirator mask for protection when cleaning mould
- First try cleaning with soap, water, and baking soda. Scrub surfaces and use a stiff brush in crevices.
- If that doesn’t remove all the mould, use a mix of 1 cup bleach to 1 gallon of water. Never mix bleach with ammonia!
- Dry out the area with a dehumidifier. Keep using it until humidity is consistently below 50%.
- Discard any porous or heavily mouldy materials like drywall, carpets, and upholstered furniture. Mould can grow back in the padding and backsides.
- After cleaning mould, address the source of moisture to prevent regrowth.
If the mould covers over 10 square feet, consider hiring a professional mold remediation company. They have the expertise and equipment to fully dry out affected areas and prevent spore spread.
Final Tips for Keeping Mould Away
- Check your home regularly for signs of excess moisture or musty smells. Act quickly if you find mould.
- Make mould prevention part of your regular cleaning routine.
- Consider investing in a whole-house dehumidifier if you live in a damp climate.
- Keep humidity below 50% in your home. Get a hygrometer to monitor it.
- Clean out gutters and direct water away from your foundation through proper landscaping.
- Maintain good air circulation inside your home.
- Clean bathrooms with bleach and baking soda regularly.
Following these prevention guidelines diligently can help you conquer mould for good! With vigilance and moisture control, you can stop mould growth in its tracks and protect your family’s health.
