Controlling Molds in the Home

Because of their opportunistic nature, molds (also known as fungi) are often a source of environmental allergens in the home. Molds are the second leading cause of outdoor airborne allergies, with pollen being the first.

Fungi are generally dependant on other organic substances for nutrients and energy.

These molds generally grow in refrigerators, shower stalls, basements, household plant soil, filters used with evaporative coolers and humidifiers, even plywood, paper and fabric.

Although most fungi grow best in warm humid environments, there is no region of the earth’s surface where they do not exist.

Depending on the type of mold, spores may be dispersed by rainfall, humidity or wind. Spores are most commonly found in homes near lowland areas and lakes, and older homes with damp basements. The attic is another prominent place for mold growth. There is no way to practically eliminate all molds and mold spores in the home. The way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.

Outdoor molds are seasonal, first appearing in early spring and thriving until the first frost.

The following are some of the most common molds.

ALTERNARIA
Basements, evaporative coolers and humidifiers; leaf and grass mulch.

APERGILLUS
Houseplants, kitchen mold, humidifiers, dehumidifiers.

DRESCHLERIA
Outdoor fungus of grasses and cereal grains; leaf piles, rotting wood.

STEMPHYLLIUM
Vegetable crops, decaying plant material, damp paper, canvas and cotton fabric.

CLADOSPORIUM
Bathrooms, shower stalls, condensate on tile, behind baseboards, wood paneling and floors.

PENICILLIUM
Soil, fruits, breads, cheeses, leather, paper.

FUSARIUM
Stored fruits and vegetables, field crops, indoor plants

There are several steps you can take to control the growth of molds in your home.

• Spray trouble areas with fungicidal products to help eliminate spores

• Change filers on cooling systems, furnaces, and humidifiers frequently. Use dehumidifiers to reduce the population of mold spores. Relative humidity in the home should be kept between 40% and 50%

• Avoid houseplants, as the mulch tends to encourage mold growth. If you cannot remove houseplants, try spreading aquarium charcoal over the soil. Dried flowers often contain molds

• Be sure to add algae killer to your fish tank. Scrub the decorations with chlorine and rinse well before returning to the tank.

• Choose synthetic fibers in pet’s bedding. Wash frequently in hot water.

• If the pet sleeps on the owner’s bed, wash bedding frequently in hot water.

• Avoid letting allergic pets sleep in the basements or bathrooms where molds may be more prevalent.

• Area rugs should be washed often, especially those over concrete floors.

Reproduced with authorization from Heska Corp.