Mold in your home is unsightly, gross, and could also be dangerous. Some mold is actually toxic and can make you and those who live in your home very sick.
Mold can spread quickly, be difficult to detect, and costly to remove. So, you’ll want to make sure you’re doing everything you can do prevent mold growth in and around your home. The biggest defense against mold is to control the moisture in your home, as mold cannot grow without moisture.
Here are 8 ways to prevent mold in your home.
Identify Places That May Collect Moisture
Seek out places in your home that could collect moisture and grow mold. For example, a basement that floods, windows that have lots of condensation, a ceiling that leaks, a bathroom that is always damp. Then, eradicate that source of moisture. You may have to invest in moisture control bags or spray, rip up some carpets, put in some waterproofing, or repair damages.
Dry All Wet Spots Immediately
Spills, leaks, or drips should be mopped up and dried within 24 to 48 hours. Anything that has water damage and can’t be completely dried should be tossed out. It’s also important not to leave any wet articles around the house, such as leaving wet clothes in your washing machine.
Improve Ventilation
Having proper ventilation can ensure that moisture is reduced in your home. Opening a window while cooking, washing dishes or showering can cut down on moisture in your home. You’ll also want to make sure that you have exhaust fans, dehumidifiers, and air conditioners where they are needed. These units must be periodically checked to ensure they aren’t collecting moisture.
Create Proper Air Circulation
Fresh air reduces moisture, so it’s important to make sure you home has good airflow between the rooms in your homes to ward off the mold. You can open doors between rooms, push furniture away from walls, and keep closet doors open if the closet is colder than the room it is located in.
Watch Your Indoor Plants
Moist soil from your indoor plants are a great place for mold to grow and spread. You can add some Taheebo tea to the water of your plants to ward off mold growth in your potted plants.
Protect Your Bathroom
Bathrooms are a haven for moisture and humidity, so this is one room you’ll definitely want to make sure you have an exhaust fan in. You should also follow these tips to help prevent your bathroom from becoming moldy:
- Help towels dry quicker by spreading them out
- Keep the minimum number of containers in your shower to help clean it better and improve air circulation
- Use a towel or squeegee to wipe down your shower after use
- Get mold resistant shower curtains, or ones that dry and can be easily cleaned
Clean Organic Surfaces
Mold commonly grows on organic substances like cotton or wood, so it’s crucial that you regularly dust, vacuum, and clean things like carpeting, wooden furniture, wallpaper, paint, fabrics, books, leather, ceiling tiles, and other items in your home.
Eradicate Mold When You Find It
If you already have mold, you’ll want to immediately remove it to prevent it from spreading. Make sure you have the following items to scrub mold away.
- Gloves
- Scrubbing brush
- Vacuum and brush attachment (Make sure you throw out the vacuum bag or clean out the dirt receptacle when you’re done)
- Mop and or sponges
- Bleach or commercial cleanser
- Furniture polish
- Face mask
If you find a serious mold infestation, you might have to seek professional help to have it removed.
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