Preventing and Cleaning Mold and Mildew
By Ellen Russell
Photo: © Matthew Bowden - Fotolia
Mold and mildew growth in the home can be the cause of serious allergies and respiratory problems. The best course of action against mold and mildew is thorough cleaning and prevention.
The key to preventing mold and mildew growth is to regularly clean areas that are frequently moist, like bathrooms and showers. Wiping down surfaces with vinegar helps kill mold and mildew growth, and prevent future growth. The most effective cleaner to use to kill mold and mildew growth is household bleach or bleach-based household cleansers.
No amount of cleaning will completely control mold and mildew growth where water and moisture continue to infiltrate the house. The source of the moisture must first be dealt with.
Bathrooms will never be completely free of moisture because of frequent showering. However, the situation can be alleviated with ventilating fans and windows. Run fans any time showers and baths are run. Open windows to thoroughly dry bathrooms when possible. |
Other sources of leaking water and moisture must be dealt with as soon as possible to prevent large mold and mildew infestations. Follow these pointers for drying moisture problems and fixing sources of mold-growing water.
Increase ventilation.
- Use dehumidifiers in humid home areas.
- Insulate cold pipes to prevent sweating.
- Properly vent appliances like dryers.
- Repair leaking pipes and fixtures.
- Clean infected areas and surfaces.
It is important to note that large mold and mildew problems require professional assistance to properly deal with the infestations. Areas larger than ten square feet should be cleaned professionally. Heating and cooling systems penetrated by mold and mildew need to be cleaned by HVAC system professionals.
Homeowners may use the following procedures to deal with mold and mildew growth in areas less than ten square feet.
- Wear an N-95 rated respirator, gloves and goggles.
- Use a solution of 1 cup bleach to 1 gallon of water.
- On wall surfaces, do not paint over mold; clean the area with bleach solution first (or paint will peel).
- Paint mold prone areas with alcohol based paint.
- Launder removable fabrics (with bleach if possible).
- Wipe surfaces with vinegar (mild mold and prevention only).
The only reliably effective treatment for mold and mildew problems is cleaning with the bleach solution, but note that it may damage surfaces. Consult professional contractors for further information, however, there may be no alternative. Plan to refinish surfaces and replace carpeting for heavy mold problems. There is no effective means of cleaning mold from carpeting and equally porous materials that cannot be laundered. |
