- Regular mopping and cleaning of floors is one way to prevent mold.floor cleaning #3 image by stassad from Fotolia.com
A common problem in homes in warm or humid climates, mold grows in any favorable environment. Mold spores flourish in damp, dark locations that are difficult to reach and clean on a regular basis. To prevent mold, homeowners should control relative humidity in the house with a dehumidifier, make sure interior rooms have adequate ventilation, and keep bathrooms and kitchens clean, dry and well-lit. If you have a mold problem, there are several useful steps you can take to solve it. - To get rid of mold sources, check plumbing fixtures and all water pipes for leaks and seepage. Mold thrives in moisture, and any standing water will encourage mold growth. Make sure that all fixtures are sealed and dry. Check basement walls and floors for water leaks and moisture condensation. Have heating ducts and ventilators checked by a specialist.
- Use a strong cleanser or detergent, mixed in water, to remove mold from tiles, counter tops, flooring, pipes, faucets, shower doors and curtains, carpet and walls. If the mold has invaded porous materials, or is affecting such household items as clothing, linens, cushions, books or toys, throw the items away or have them professionally cleaned.
- Vinegar is one of the most useful weapons in cleaning and preventing mold growth. Unlike bleach, it's safe, non-toxic and biodegradable. Using a fine-spray bottle, apply it regularly on faucet moldings, on fixtures underneath sinks, on dish drainers and cutting boards, on shower grout, tile and on shower curtains. Mop the bathroom and kitchen floors with a vinegar solution. Baking soda is also extremely useful in the campaign against mold. Regularly sprinkling it on rugs and carpeting, then taking it up with a vacuum cleaner, will help to contain mold growth within the carpet fibers and at the junction of carpets and baseboards.
- Air conditioners serve to lower humidity in the room, and can be controlled with humidistats as well as thermostats. A humidistat will cycle the unit on when the humidity reaches a preset level. If you are having a mold problem, reduce this humidity level to help dry out the air and inhibit mold growth. Hygrometers are used to measure humidity; the ideal level is between 35 percent and 50 percent relative humidity. Make sure exhaust fans are working properly and all rooms are well-ventilated with fresh air.
- In colder months, a dehumidifier will serve the same purpose as an air conditioner in summer. In many regions, dry winter climates make a dehumidifier unnecessary, but in subtropical regions such as south Texas and the Florida panhandle, these appliances will come in handy to keep the house dry and mold-free.
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