Identifying Hidden Allergens – Flush Out Bathroom Mold

Molds are a type of fungus that grow almost anywhere there is sufficient moisture. They can live as single celled organisms or join together to form a spongy, powdery, or slimy mass. This larger form can spread rapidly by creating spores. Unlike plant seeds, many types of mold spores don’t require fertilization or cross-pollination to reproduce. The tiny spores feature a heat and chemical resistant outer shell. This makes them tough to kill. Bathroom mold is especially difficult to eradicate. Keeping air and surfaces dry in that area of your home takes a concerted effort.

However, getting rid of household mold contamination is important for anyone suffering from allergies or asthma. These mVOCs (microbial Volatile Organic Compounds) make respiratory problems associated with unhealthy indoor air much worse.  The health hazards are even more serious for individuals with compromised immune systems. They can be infected with a fungus called Aspergillus which actually grows inside the lungs. Certain mold species can also produce mycotoxins that have been known to cause serious neurological side effects.

Cleaning It Up

Fortunately, most indoor fungal growth is not toxic “black mold” and small areas of contamination can be easily cleaned up. Water and a strong detergent or biocide should do the job on most hard surfaces. If you are using bleach, dilute it and don’t mix it with any other cleaning agents. Whenever you deal with mold, wear a respirator (not a regular dust mask), protective gloves, and safety goggles that seal around your eyes so spores won’t get in.

Common species of mold take only a few days to establish a strong colony. This means you need to completely dry or get rid of any furnishings that are exposed to moisture by a flood or a water leak. Remove and discard any porous items such as carpet and padding that are already contaminated with mold. Vacuuming and even steam cleaning won’t work to pull the spores out of these porous materials. In fact, improper steam cleaning is a prime example of an activity that promotes mold growth.

If you have widespread fungal infestation throughout your home, you may need to hire a mold remediation firm to remove it. Don’t sign a contract for these services just based on a mold test, though. These tests will always show that you have mold spores in your home because it is impossible to completely eliminate these microorganisms – they are everywhere.  There should be physical evidence such as mildew staining, visible mold colonies, musty odors, or severe allergy symptoms to back up the test results.

Airing It Out

Once you have eliminated the surface conditions that are allowing mold to grow freely in your home, it is time to look at overall humidity and ventilation issues. The ideal humidity for healthy indoor air is approximately 35%. Any area in your home where moisture can build above 45% needs to be addressed. Installing a dehumidifier is one solution. You also need to ensure an adequate exchange of air between the inside of your home and the outdoors. Opening doors and windows on mild days can help.

Air purification is another potential problem solver. However, even the finest HEPA filters won’t capture the smallest mold spores. You may require a more high-tech defense against these microscopic marauders. Photo-catalytic oxidation is one option that is proven to kill mold spores with ease. UV-C lamps can also be installed inside your HVAC system where they will treat your entire air supply. To find out more about how to destroy mold in the air you breathe, request our free ebook.

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