How to prevent mold in your home?

There are several dangerous types of mold that enter our homes and workspaces and can cause a number of health problems.

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1. Stop the source of moisture

If mold is growing near the sink, tub, or toilet, you should stop water from reaching those areas.

Cover leaks in the roof or windows with a plastic tarp until they can be repaired. In addition, you should clean the sink and bathroom daily to prevent the rapid reproduction of mold.

2. Block off the area containing mold

If possible, seal the black mold part of the house by sticking plastic sheeting on the door. If the leak has been repaired and the area is dry, it's a good idea to clean up any mold before reusing it so it doesn't spread to other areas.

3. Clean safely

When entering areas with black mold, wearing a mask rated to prevent inhalation of mold spores and disposable protective gear or clothing can be washed in hot water.

In addition, when cleaning in moldy areas, you should use chemicals properly and thoroughly clean the surrounding area to prevent mold from arising again in a short time.

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Illustration

4. Dispose of cleaning materials properly

Place cleaning supplies, disposable protective gear, and plastic sheets in an airtight bag so mold spores don't migrate to other areas.

In addition, if you use reusable protective gear, you should wash them thoroughly before leaving them to dry and reuse.

5. Leak Repair

Even a small leak can make wood, drywall, mortar and other porous surfaces a haven for mold growth. You should check for leaks monthly and repair leaky pipes, fixtures, windows, and roofs promptly.

In addition, before installing the pipes or the roof, you should also consider the materials for good quality to avoid having too many places of leakage that will cost you a lot of repair later.

6. Keep fabrics and surfaces dry

Don't leave wet coats, shoes, or towels in a pile in bathrooms or other areas that contain large amounts of moisture. Because it only takes two days for mold to attach, start to grow and smell musty.

Instead, you should hang your wet items so they dry faster. In addition, we need to make sure to dry the compartments and tubs with a rubber broom after each use.

You can also save time on tasks like mopping floors, washing clothes by using steam or opening the door when not in use to let the wind help dry the dry surface quickly.

7. Improve ventilation in your home

Make sure you're using fans in the bathroom and kitchen when cooking to remove steam and dry faster.

The addition of a ceiling fan and a circulating fan is a good helper when the humidity is high. Opening doors and windows on dry, windy days helps keep surfaces from absorbing too much moisture and keeps them dry.

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Illustration

8. Use a dehumidifier

If the humidity in your basement or laundry room is too high – this can be an extremely favorable condition for mold to grow quickly. Therefore, use a dehumidifier to remove moisture from the air.

9. Check drainage and ventilation system

You should always check and clean your ductwork at least once a year to prevent blockages or leaks that allow moisture to enter your home.

Because mold spores are everywhere, even in dry climates, it is possible to form black mold or other harmful molds in your home.

Therefore, annual inspection and cleaning is extremely important.

10. Install moisture barriers

Basement areas and corners are the most moisture-prone areas of your home.

Therefore, you should install moisture screens when necessary and use special mulch to ensure that moisture from the soil does not enter the space.

According to VOV