Eliminate Molds in Your Home

© Copyright Bee Wilder

Introduction

Environmental molds can adversely affect health, and the only way to minimize exposure is to remove as much as possible from your home. Molds are simple, microscopic organisms whose purpose in the ecosystem is to break down dead materials, and they are everywhere. Molds reproduce by very tiny particles called spores.

Spores are very light and can travel on air currents. They need moisture, food, and a surface to grow on and can be seen throughout the house, mostly in bathrooms. Mold growth can often be seen in the form of discoloration, and can appear in many colors, i.e. white, orange, pink, blue, green, black or brown.

The first rule for eliminating molds is to keep rooms dry, warm and light. Molds are living organisms that will only grow in cold, dark, damp places, so if you have a recurrent mold problem, bring more light, heat, or fans into the area to move the air.

How to Eliminate Molds in Your Home

Wear gloves when handling moldy materials and also wear a particulate-removing respirator or facemask. Also wear protective clothing that is easily cleaned or can be discarded.

1. For major mold problems, put a portable electric heater in the room, and turn it to the highest setting. Close the door and let it bake all day or overnight. The mold will dry up into a powder that brushes right off. For concentrated areas, use a hand-held dryer to dry the mold in just a few minutes.
   
   This is not the most energy-efficient method, but it will definitely solve the immediate problem. If you are sensitive to molds you should get someone else to handle such problems in your home, or wear gloves, protective clothing and a good face mask.



2. Let textiles dry before storing. Hang wet towels after bathing to let them dry before throwing them in the hamper. Hang clothes so there is space between them, and if you don't launder clothing that is damp with perspiration, at least allow it to dry before putting it back in the closet.



3. It is important to determine why mold is growing. Investigate any areas that are moist, and repair the source of the moisture. There could be a roof or plumbing leak, or groundwater leaking into the basement.
   
   Air duct systems could be contaminated with mold. Clothes dryers generate humidity and should never be vented inside the house. Substances that are porous can trap molds and if contaminated should be thrown out, i.e. ceiling tiles, drywall, carpeting, paper, rags, and wood. They are nearly impossible to clean and will produce more spores when dry.



4. After making repairs, it is time to clean. For those who are extremely sensitive to molds it is advisable to call in professionals to rid their homes of molds. For those who can do their own cleaning, make your own mold and mildew remover.
   
   Mix borax and water in a spray bottle (amounts to mix are indicated on the borax box). Spray it on and the mold wipes right off. Borax inhibits mold growth, so wash down the walls in your bathroom with a borax solution and just leave it on.
   
   You can also sprinkle borax in damp cabinets under the sink. Do not use products that contain formaldehyde, phenol, kerosene, and pentachlorophenol. Note the "DANGER" warning on package labels.