Safely clean and prevent mold growth in your home

After moving into our new home, I began battling a seemingly endless cold, relentless sinus pressure that required me to lay around with ice packs on my face and a constant runny nose followed by lots of sneezing. Eventually, I started to notice a trend: my symptoms would disappear when I left home, only to return to their full intensity when returning. This pattern pointed to a conclusion – something in our new home was triggering allergies. Which came as a surprise. Allergies were something I had never dealt with.

To verify that what I was dealing with was allergy-related, I took an IgE allergy test to assess 50 different inhalant allergies. The results revealed high sensitivity to cat dander, Alternaria Tenuis/Alternaria mold, and, strangely enough, grass (which has never bothered me).

This started to make sense, considering the previous owners had a cat. There was cat dander and hair everywhere. I also noticed mold and mildew on window sills, doors, and exterior siding of our home after moving in. I treated these areas myself using the following precautions and cleaning methods. Since remediating my allergies have gone away.

Cleaning tips for mold and mildew:

First things first: safety precautions

Before diving in, prioritize safety! Mold spores can irritate the respiratory system, so it's crucial to gear up:

• Rubber gloves: Protect your hands from harsh chemicals and potential allergens.
• Safety glasses: Shield your eyes from splashes and airborne spores.
• Face mask: N95 masks are ideal for filtering out mold particles.

Tools of the trade:

The right tools make all the difference:

• Spray bottle: Makes applying cleaning solutions a breeze.
• Soft brushes: Gentle on delicate surfaces like wood and vinyl.
• Stiff brushes: For tackling tough mold on hard surfaces.
• Microfiber cloths: Effective for wiping and drying without leaving streaks.

Identifying the enemy:

Not all fuzzy growths are created equal. Mold and mildew are both types of fungi, but mold tends to be darker and more textured; when sprayed, mold turns yellowish-brown, while mildew is usually flat and white or gray. Knowing your enemy helps you choose the proper cleaning method.

Natural cleaning methods:

For mild cases, ditch the harsh chemicals and use natural solutions:

• Cleaning Vinegar + Baking Soda: This acidic powerhouse kills mold and mildew without harmful fumes and is a gentle abrasive. Mix vinegar and a lesser quantity of baking in a spray bottle. Apply on the moldy areas. Scrub with a cloth or brush.
• 3% Hydrogen Peroxide: This readily available disinfectant kills mold and mildew on non-porous surfaces like glass and tile. Spray 3% hydrogen peroxide on the affected area, let it sit for 10 minutes, and wipe clean.
• Borax + Water: Add 1 cup of borax and 1 cup of water in a spray bottle and spray on the infected area. Scrub with a cloth or brush.

Chemical solutions:

For stubborn mold or larger areas, natural solutions might not be enough. Here's where commercial cleaners come in:

• Bleach: This potent disinfectant kills mold and mildew on most surfaces. Mix one part bleach with four parts water, apply with caution, and rinse thoroughly with clean water. Note from the wise! Never mix bleach with ammonia, as the combination creates toxic fumes. How do I know this? I've done it.
• Commercial mold and mildew removers: These are solutions like Tilex - Mold and Mildew Remover. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully for safe and effective use.

Note: Cleaning mold is not always a permanent solution. Unless you tackle the cause of the mold, it will grow back quickly.

Prevention is key:

Now that your doors and windows are clean let's prevent those pesky fungi from returning:

• Address moisture issues: Fix leaky faucets, repair cracks, and ensure proper ventilation to keep moisture levels in check.
• Open windows regularly: Let fresh air circulate to prevent mold and mildew growth.
• Clean regularly: Schedule regular cleaning sessions to keep mold and mildew at bay.

Following these recommendations, you can help eliminate mold and mildew from your home, keeping it healthy and beautiful. Remember, prevention is key, so stay vigilant!

For heavily infested areas or concerns about the health risks of mold, consult a professional mold remediation company. They have the expertise and equipment to safely and effectively remove mold and prevent its return.