Chances are you have heard stories of toxic mold invading homes and making its occupants sick. But in reality, you have a greater chance experiencing an allergic reaction to any of the 80+ common household molds – and feeling equally bad.
If you have mold in your house, you are probably inhaling its spores that are released daily in the air. And if you are allergic to mold, your body will release histamines, causing sneezing, a stuffy nose, asthma or other miserable symptoms.
Mold can be found in your bathroom or kitchen and in moist or dark areas such as closets and basements. Take a walk outside to find even more mold, often in piles of leaves, grass and under decks or near pools.
Of course, if you question the type of mold found in your house, it is important to have it tested. Look in the phone book for a mold inspector or visit an online company such as http://prolabinc.com/ to order a home test kit. You will probably find the mold is a common household form, but this knowledge will bring relief that your family is safe.
How can you safely remove mold from your home? First and foremost, wear a mask that will filter out allergens. Wear gloves and begin cleaning in the bathroom. Clean shower curtains, the tub and shower with a mixture of water and bleach. If you have a bathroom window, open the curtains to allow the sunshine in.
Close the door to the room your are cleaning to help contain floating mold spores while you work. Cover vents with plastic. If you have a fan, place it in the window to vent the air outside. Now, take a tour around your house. Look for piles, clutter and knickknacks. Clean up, allowing air to circulate around objects in your home. If you find mold, clean it with the bleach mixture and allow to air dry. If the item with mold will be ruined by bleach, use Lysol and water instead, beginning with a spot test in a safe area.
If you find items or clothing in your house covered in mold, carefully pick them up and place them in a plastic bag. Carry the bag outside and clean the item away from the house. Remember, any mold you disturb will release spores in to your living space – so handle moldy items carefully.
When you have a good day to work in the home, empty your closets and check for mold. Clean mold as directed and air dry before you move items back in. Place a lamp in the empty closet to speed drying time. When placing items back in the closet, allow for air circulation as best you can. You may also consider purchasing a light suitable for closets to help reduce dampness.
Keep your home’s humidity level at lower than 50% relative humidity. Dehumidifiers can help to keep the moisture low and the mold down.
Remember, humidity, poor air circulation and dark spaces are a breeding ground for mold. So keep things clean, uncluttered and well ventilated to reduce mold in your house.
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