What is Mold?
This is probably the simplest question of all but the most important. By asking this question we are able understand how to deal with molds. To answer this question:
Mold and fungi are terms generally used to describe a distinct group of organisms that are fuzzy or powdery in appearance.
Fungus was once considered a part of the plant kingdom, they are now regarded as a distinct kingdom of organisms. Fungi tend to absorb nutrients from dead or living organic matter in order for them to grow and survive.
At least 100,000 living species of fungus have been identified, some of which are beneficial to mankind.
Mycologists (scientists that specialize in botany that deals with fungi) have estimated that another 200,000 types of fungi may probably exist that have not yet been identified.
How Can We Be Exposed to Mold?
Exposure to molds is possible through several ways. First is by skin contact with molds. People with high allergic reactions to molds may develop rashes where the mold has made contact on the skin.
Inhalation of spores from mold may cause allergic reactions or asthma as it passes through the nose and the lungs.
Mold exposure can also occur when someone accidentally ingests food or materials contaminated with molds.
How Does Mold Affect Our Health?
Molds are probably the leading cause of airborne allergies.
Some of the most common symptoms of those that are sensitive to molds include nasal stuffiness, eye irritation, wheezing, cold and flu-like symptoms, rashes, conjunctivitis, inability to concentrate, and fatigue.
Exposure to molds has also been associated with the onset of asthma.
How Do I Deal with Molds in My Home?
The most common way of treatment is to spray disinfectants in areas were fungi is present, wait a few seconds to let the disinfectant penetrate, and then wipe the area clean.
To remove fungus and its stains, commercial products that are labeled “mildew removers†can be used. But keep in mind that these products, along with disinfectants, may be dangerous if not handled properly.
How Do I Decrease Indoor Molds?
Ideally, you not only want to avoid molds indoors but rather prevent them from ever growing.
By knowing the factors on how molds thrive you can easily decrease or even prevent mold from even growing in your home.
So the best way to prevent mold growth in your home, humidity and liquid water must be eliminated vigilantly through appropriate cleanup.
How Do I Locate Molds in My Home?
There are signs to watch for if you want to find out if there is mold growth in your house. Sometimes you can see and smell mold cells that are growing on surfaces.
Its is possible that there is mold growth wherever there are water stains, standing water, or moist surfaces. Walls, ceilings, carpets, window sills, drain pans, duct work, vents, bathrooms, and wallboard should all be thoroughly inspected.
Look for possible stains and streaks on walls, on ceilings, and floors. You should also look for bubbles in paint and plaster and in loose wallpaper.
How to Get Rid of Mold
Molds can be effectively cleaned with a mold solution such as Lysol, Clorox, or X-14.
Places that are being cleaned with these solutions should be properly ventilated. If you react to molds, you should wear a tight-fitting mask that securely covers your mouth and nose to prevent any allergic reactions that may prove dangerous.
What does Mold need to Thrive?
First and foremost, like all living things, molds need food to survive. The fact that molds can feed on almost any organic material makes their food easy to find.
Next molds depend on their fungal spores to multiply. Another factor for molds to thrive and multiply is liquid water.
This is the reason why it is strongly advised to fix water leaks immediately.
And the last factor needed for molds to thrive is warm temperature and excessive humidity. Molds will typically thrive at temperatures from as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit up to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Where does Mold Grow?
Mold can grow anywhere, be it indoors or outdoors, as long as there is enough surface moisture to keep them alive.
Fungi can be found in every type of climate and also in every social and economic condition. They live where moisture, oxygen, and other chemicals that they need are present.
They can be found on the surfaces of objects, within pores, and inside deteriorated materials.
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Joslyn from the MoldBlogger Team
