No homeowner wants to deal with mold growing where they live. Unfortunately, it’s sneaky, hiding in damp corners and dark spaces. Before you know it, it’s everywhere!
Mold doesn’t just look bad; it can also have negative effects on your health and cause permanent damage to your home. The good news is that there are several ways to tackle mold on your own and prevent it from spreading in your home. Here’s how to deal with mold and keep your home mold-free:
What Is Mold and Why Should You Care?
Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in moist conditions and environments. It’s actually everywhere, spreading through tiny spores that float in the air and settle wherever they find moisture. Common types of mold include black mold, green mold, and white mold, and each can cause problems if left unchecked.
Some of the issues that mold can cause include triggering allergies, irritating respiratory systems, and worsening conditions like asthma. The toxins that some molds produce as metabolic byproducts are called mycotoxins; exposure to mycotoxins produced by some molds can also cause myriad health issues ranging from chronic sinusitis to nervous system damage to fungal infections to cancer and more. Mold can also cause damage to building materials and can also weaken walls, ceilings, and even furniture. That’s why addressing mold quickly isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s also about protecting your health and home.
How to Identify Mold in Your Home
Mold often starts small, which makes it tricky to spot at first. To identify mold, keep an eye out for discoloration on your walls, ceiling, or floors, especially in areas that are prone to dampness such as bathrooms, basements, or kitchens. Mold can appear as black, green, white, or even orange spots, depending on the type.
A musty odor is another telltale sign. If a room smells damp even after cleaning, it’s worth investigating. Don’t forget to look in hidden areas, too, such as under sinks, behind appliances, or inside ventilation systems.
How to Safely Remove Mold
There’s no need to panic if you’ve found mold in your home. Small patches can be easily cleaned up if you use the right cleaning tool or product. While some online guides might recommend DIY cleaning solutions, you do yourself a favor if you stick to a specialized product that is specifically designed to treat mold.
EC3 Mold Solution Spray from Micro Balance Health Products is an excellent solution: it’s a spray on mold cleaner that can be applied on all hard and soft surfaces. Made out of all natural botanical ingredients, it eliminates mold spores and prevents its proliferation. It works best when frequently used to maintain healthy mold levels and prevent a general build-up of mold in your home. EC3 Mold Solution Spray is also nontoxic and can be safely used in households where children or pets are present.
If you want something that can also lift or remove stains or dirt in addition to managing mold, check out Micro Balance Health Products’ EC3 Enzyme Cleaner Concentrate. Like EC3 Mold Solution Spray, it, too, is made out of all natural botanical ingredients and is nontoxic. All you need to do is dilute it according to the package instructions to create a spray on mold cleaner that can be used for everyday cleaning and stain removal.
Tips for Preventing Mold in Your Home
Prevention is key to keep mold from making a comeback in your home. First, invest in a good dehumidifier if you live in a humid climate or have rooms that always seem damp. Keep humidity levels in your home below 60%—around 30-50% is ideal.
It’s also a good idea to make sure that your home is properly ventilated. Open windows when cooking or showering, or use exhaust fans to help circulate air and reduce moisture buildup. If you notice condensation on windows or walls, wipe it away and address the source of the dampness.
Finally, regularly inspect leaky pipes or roofs that may create a haven for mold. Make sure that the leaks are promptly addressed.
With the right approach, dealing with mold doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By addressing it promptly and taking steps to prevent its return, you can protect your home and your health.
