Molds produce microscopic spores that are released in air indoor and outdoor. The spores can cause allergy when inhaled by allergic people. The signs and symptoms of mold allergy include sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, itchy, watery & red eyes, skin rashes & hives, sinus headaches, nose & throat itching, breathing difficulty, asthma attack, and anaphylactic shock. Because molds are dangerous to human, homeowners are looking for effective ways to get rid of them. A house free of molds is the best prevention for troublesome mold allergy. Following is a list of tips that you can do to get rid of molds inside your home.
- Since molds are found in plants, limit the number of your indoor houseplants. Always check the pot soil and leaves of your indoor plants for molds. If you find molds, remove them immediately.
- Use central air conditioning system with attached high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. This filter will trap mold spores before they reach you.
- Objects or surfaces contaminated with molds should be cleaned with diluted chlorine bleach solution. The solution is made by mixing one part household bleach in nine parts of water. For your protection, wear protective gears such as masks and goggles when cleaning the contaminated surfaces.
- Keep moist areas well ventilated by putting exhaust fans vented to the outside. Without moisture, molds will not grow. It is very important to put exhaust fan in the kitchen to remove cooking steam and food vapors.
- Molds love water so repair any plumbing leaks in the bathroom, kitchen, and basements.
- Used dehumidifiers to control indoor moisture. Monitor indoor humidity using hygrometers. Indoor humidity should not go beyond 45 percent. An indoor humidity of 35% is preferable.
- Throw away or burn old books, newspapers, clothes, or bedding. If these things are sentimental to you, put them in storage boxes.
- Clean appliances that produce moisture such as refrigerator, stoves, and washing machine.
- When painting or repainting your walls use paint with mold inhibitor or mix mold inhibitor to regular paint.
- Bathroom carpets that absorb moisture promote mold growth. Replace them with tile or linoleum.
- Never put damp clothes in drawers or closets. If molds grow in the clothes, other clean clothes can be contaminated
- Frequently clean garbage pails.