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We are exposed to molds daily. We inhale them, touch contaminated materials, and even eat them in contaminated foods. Molds become a problem when spores are present in large numbers and inhaled. Large numbers of spores are found in homes with active mold growth. To detect its presence, look for a discoloration, stain, or fuzzy growth, water damage with discoloration around the area, or sniff around for musty, earthy odors. For some of us, signs of a problem only become evident after exposure to high levels of contamination, but for others a minimal amount of exposure to mold spores can trigger problems. Asthma attacks, wheezing, difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, nasal and sinus congestion, eye irritation, dry, hacking cough, nose or throat irritation, skin rashes or other health problems can occur with exposure to mold.

If contamination occurs, follow these steps to remove it. Wear protective rubber gloves, eye goggles without vents, a dust mask, and clothing that can be easily removed or discarded. After flooding, dry wet materials immediately to stop mold growth. Use fans and dehumidifiers and discard any items that cannot be completely dried within 48 hours. Prevent further contamination by enclosing the items being discarded in plastic bags or wrapping them in plastic sheets.

Discard porous items severely damaged by mold such as paper, books, ceiling tiles, wood products, and carpets. Some carpets may be wiped clean by sponging with dry soap, detergent suds, or using a shampoo machine. Professional carpet-cleaning services are better equipped to handle this problem.

To clean non-porous materials such as hard plastic, concrete, glass, metal, and solid wood, scrub the mold off with detergent and water and then dry completely. Hard surfaces can be disinfected by mixing 1/4 to 1/2 cup of bleach in a gallon of water. Do not wipe the solution off the treated areas. It has to dry on the surfaces to be effective. Apply this solution in a well-ventilated area with open windows.

Mold cannot grow without moisture. Fix leaky pipes and overflows, check for adequate venting in bathroom and kitchen, and make certain appliances such as stoves and clothes dryers are vented outside if possible. It is also helpful to keep your home's humidity level at 30-50% in the winter and less than 60% in the summer, improve air circulation, and use a dehumidifier to lower humidity. Prevention is always the best solution.

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