Individuals should treat all molds the same when it comes to removing them from the home.
- removing visible mold growth from hard surfaces with a commercial mold removal product, hot soapy water, or a mixture of 1 cup of bleach per gallon of water. A person should not mix bleach with other cleaning products
- removing and discarding soft or porous materials — such as carpets, insulation, or wallboard — that show signs of mold
- wearing protective clothing while cleaning, such as rubber boots, rubber gloves, and goggles
A person may also consider contacting a professional if there is extensive mold growth in the home or if a person has allergic reactions when cleaning moldy surfaces.
Prevention
Mold thrives in damp and humid environments.
The most effective way to prevent mold growth is to monitor the humidity level in the home. It should be no higher than 50%Trusted Source throughout the day.
A person should check the humidity level regularly, as it can change every few hours. They may also use a dehumidifier if necessary, especially during humid months.
To prevent mold, a person can also:
- regularly inspect the building for signs of water damage and mold
- clean the bathroom regularly and tackle mold and mildew as soon as it appears
- use exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom or open windows to improve ventilation
- install an air conditioner with a high-efficiency particulate air filter — better known as a HEPA filter — to remove mold spores from the air
- add mold inhibitors to paints to stop mold growth on walls and ceilings
- avoid using carpet in the kitchen, basement, or bathroom
- recycle old books and newspapers, as these can become moldy quickly if they get damp
- deal with any flooding promptly by drying out soft furnishings and cleaning wet items with commercial products
- dispose of flood-damaged carpets
To prevent or reduce the symptoms of a mold allergy, a person may:
- close the windows at night if it is cold outside to reduce dampness
- wear a dust mask while gardening
- stay indoors after a rainstorm, in damp weather, and at other times when the mold count is high
A person should also use proper safety equipment when cleaning up mold in an industrial setting or after a natural disaster.