Mold is a persistent problem in many a modern
dwelling, thanks to better insulation, combined with stable temperatures and
high levels of humidity. These conditions provide mold a perfect habitat,
allowing it to flourish. While mold spores are a common particle in household
dust, should their concentration reaches high levels, they can have ill effects
on our health, so getting rid of mold should be a priority.
What is mold?
Mold (or Mould) is the name for a large group of
fungi, characterized by discoloration of a surface, followed by a fuzzy-looking
growth over the affected area. Mold causes biodegradation in organic material,
causing food to spoil and wood to rot, amongst other things. Mold can also be
beneficial for producing antibiotics, enhancing the taste of certain kinds of
cheese and serve in the production of drinks and food. The kind you usually
encounter in your home is the unwelcome kind.
Health risks:
Mold exposure in infants can lead to respiratory
problems, and studies have shown a direct correlation between high levels of
mold exposure and the development of asthma. People with higher sensitivity to
mold can develop chronic lung illnesses. Mold can also cause allergic responses
in children and adults.
Symptoms of mold exposure:
MoldHeadache
Eye irritation
Skin irritation
Throat irritation
Nasal and sinus congestion
Runny nose
Sneezing
Respiratory problems
Cough
How to get rid of mold:
First, we need to find it - search the house for mold,
starting with the most ly places:
Mold
Shower and bathroom
Basement
Attic
Under sinks
In the kitchen
Where water damage had occurred
Outward-facing walls
Look for discoloration, black or white spots,
fuzzy-looking spots and musty smell. Check walls, floors and ceilings.
Measure the area the mold covers – if the area is
greater than 10ft (3m) across, you will need a professional cleaning. If the
area is smaller than 10ft, you can take care of it yourself.
If water damage causes the mold, make sure that the
leak has been fixed, otherwise the mold will simply return.
Move furniture from mold-infested rooms to mold-free
rooms, and then cover any air vents with plastic sheets. We do this to prevent
mold spores from spreading to uninfected areas, then open the windows in the
room to reduce humidity and temperatures.
Prepare by wearing safety goggles, a dust mask,
gloves, and clothes you wouldn’t mind throwing away once you’re done.
Prepare a solution that kills mold
Mold
Borax and vinegar: Add one cup of borax per one gallon
(3.5 liters) of water, and then add a cup of vinegar to the mix. The
combination of these two natural cleaners will kill most kinds of mold, thanks
to the vinegar overlapping the mold borax can’t kill and vice versa.
Baking soda and vinegar: Add 3 tablespoons of baking
soda to 4 cups of warm water, then add one cup of plain white vinegar. the
borax, the baking soda overlaps the vinegar’s mold-removing abilities.
Mold
Pour the solution into a spray bottle, and spray the
affected area. Wait for about 15-20 minutes and then scrub the area thoroughly
until there are no more signs of mold and allow to dry. (Food preparation areas
must be rinsed afterward)
Prevention:
Mold loves to be left undisturbed in an area with
humidity and darkness. These are the most effective prevention methods. Fix any
and all water leaks. Areas that can’t get enough sunlight ( ceilings) or have
high levels of humidity ( showers) should be checked for new signs of mold and
treated as soon as they appear. Using dehumidifiers and air-conditioning also
reduces the liness of mold forming in your home.
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