Last summer, a persistent dampness in my basement led to a mold outbreak that not only ruined my belongings but also affected my family's health. Determined to prevent this from happening again, I delved into the causes and solutions for mold growth.
In this ultimate guide, I'll share the essential strategies I discovered to keep mold from taking hold in your home.
Control indoor humidity levels
High humidity creates the perfect environment for mold growth, so try keeping the ideal indoor humidity level between 30%-50%. Below are some ways:
Home hygrometer
A home hygrometer measures the moisture in the air, helping you keep track of humidity levels. While it can’t stop mold from growing, it acts as an early warning system, alerting you to take action before mold becomes a problem.
Dehumidifiers
Mold loves to grow in damp places, especially when the humidity is over 60%. To keep things dry and mold-free, you can use a dehumidifier. It helps by pulling out the extra moisture from the air, keeping your indoor humidity between 30% and 50%.
Ventilation
Good ventilation helps get rid of moisture, so it’s important to let air flow freely throughout your home. You can easily do this by opening your windows, using exhaust fans when cooking or showering, or keeping your HVAC system in good condition.
Improve air circulation
Open windows and doors
Poor airflow can trap moisture inside your home, increasing the risk of mold. To keep things fresh, try opening windows and doors whenever the weather is nice. Using ceiling fans, bathroom fans, attic fans, or kitchen exhaust fans can also help improve air circulation in your house.
Enhance Insulation and Seal Gaps
Weatherstripping around doors and windows
Poor insulation can cause condensation, leading to mold issues, especially in colder climates. For example, when snow and ice melt, they can seep through your roof or siding, causing problems. So, make sure to insulate your walls and attic properly. And don’t forget to add weatherstripping around your doors and windows.
Fix leaks and water damage promptly
Try fixing leaks and water damage as soon as possible to prevent the form of mold.
Check and Fix Leaks Regularly
Water leaks from roofs, windows, plumbing, and basements can lead to mold, so it’s important to check your home for leaks regularly, especially after storms or heavy rains. If you find any leaks, fix them quickly to avoid long-term water damage.
Acting Fast on Any Water Damage
Tackle water-damaged areas as soon as possible
If you notice any water damage in your home, it’s best to handle, clean, and dry it as soon as you can. Mold can start growing within 24-48 hours of water exposure. To tackle the problem effectively, use a brush or sponge with a mix of water and detergent, and scrub the area thoroughly.
Use mold-resistant materials
As the name suggests, these products can resist mold growth, so I highly recommend using them in areas with high humidity. Some examples of mold-resistant products include drywall, sealant, caulk, paint, and flooring.
Mold-resistant paint
This mold-resistant paint contains antimicrobial agents that help prevent mold growth. What’s more it can create an environment that’s tough and challenging for mold spores to settle and thrive.
Mold-resistant building materials
Mold-resistant drywall
When you’re renovating or building your home, think about using mold-resistant materials like mold-resistant drywall and sheetrock. These materials help keep moisture and mold at bay, giving your home extra protection.
Use natural solutions
If you are looking for safe solutions to kill mold growth, consider household products below:
Plain White Vinegar
Spray vinegar
While vinegar might cause some discoloration on tiles, its 5-20% acetic acid can really get into those moldy spots and eliminate about 82% of the mold. Plus, this natural and non-toxic solution is safe and works great on fabric surfaces like carpets and upholstery.
Vinegar + essential oils solution
Tea tree oil and other essential oils can be used to kill mold
Some essential oils such as tea tree oil, clove bud and lemon are powerful anti-fungal solution that can tackle some types of mold and stop mold spores from growing. You can mix them with water and vinegar to make a handy anti-mold spray for surfaces.
Baking soda
Baking soda might not be able to reach deep into porous materials to completely kill mold at its roots, but it’s great for temporarily getting rid of mold on non-porous surfaces. Plus, it has the added bonus of soaking up some of the moisture that prevents mold growth in the first place.
Regularly clean and keep your home in good condition
Clean window sills
Regularly dusting and vacuuming your home, especially in areas where moisture can build up like window sills and bathroom tiles, can help get rid of potential sources for mold spores.
Maintain your HVAC system
Clean HVAC system
The HVAC system is designed to control humidity and air quality throughout your home. So, it’s also important to inspect and clean your HVAC systems regularly to ensure good airflow and prevent condensation.
Apart from cleaning ducts, remember to change air filters frequently since the old ones can trap moisture and mold spores.
Reduce clutter
Reduce clutter
Clutter can block airflow, making it a perfect spot for mold to hide and grow. Keeping your home organized and clutter-free not only helps prevent mold but also makes your space easier to clean and maintain.
Inspect indoor plant leaves and their soil
Inspect indoor plant leaves and their soil
Make sure to check your plant leaves and their soil regularly, as damp soil is a perfect breeding ground for mold. When you water your plants, try adding some Taheebo tea oil. Its natural antifungal properties can help keep fungus away.
Monitor and address outside issues
Gutter can be a breeding bed for mold and mildew
To keep mold at bay on the exterior of your home, make sure to install and regularly clean your gutters so water drains away from your foundation. Also, remember to trim back plants and trees to allow for good airflow around your house, which helps prevent excess moisture.
