Household mold can be a nightmare. It looks and smells bad; it’s difficult and often expensive to get rid of; and it can grow anywhere. Mold can also negatively affect your health, causing worsened asthma, chronic inflammatory response syndrome, and other ailments. Mold spores thrive in wet or moist areas, which means Florida homeowners have it rough when it comes to keeping their homes free of mold. Fortunately, there are a few ways to prevent mold in your home and to keep you and your family safe and healthy.
Proper Ventilation
The presence of moisture and humidity in your house can easily lead to mold growth. Always monitor your humidity levels. Invest in a dehumidifier, especially if you live in a humid climate such as Florida’s, and keep the device clean so that it continues to work efficiently. If you’re doing something that can lead to moisture buildup in a room—such as showering or washing dishes—be sure to run the fan or open a window to allow the room to air out. Proper air flow and ventilation are key to keeping your home dry and mold-free.
Look out for Problem Areas
Because mold loves water damage, one of the best ways to prevent mold in your home is to detect and correct problem areas before they become larger problems. If you have a leaky roof or a frequently flooded basement, fix the issue as soon as possible. Keep an eye on your pipes, and clean your gutters regularly. If you have plants, be sure to monitor them for mold, which loves to grow on and around the soil. By staying on top of these potential issues, you’ll be quicker to notice if something goes wrong.
Dry Wet Areas
When water damage does occur, be sure to take care of it right away. Carefully dry any carpets and furniture that got wet. Even everyday items—such as wet towels, shower curtains, or laundry—can quickly grow mold, so be sure to place them somewhere with plenty of air flow so that they can dry out easily. Keep an eye out for condensation over windows as well, and turn on the dehumidifier if it becomes a problem.
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