Identification

• Mold is part of our outdoor and indoor environments and is comprised of living fungal spores. Mold spores are so small they are invisible to the naked eye, but can begin to grow when they come indoors and land on wet surfaces. Moisture or condensation is required for any type of mold fungi to grow. Mold is most often found in bathrooms and kitchens where moisture is abundant. Areas of high humidity such as basements and laundry rooms are also prone to mold growth. Leaking pipes and leaking roofs can cause mold to grow indoors on wallpaper, carpet and carpet padding. Any sign of mold growth must be removed or cleaned to prevent serious health effects.
  
  

Effects

• Mold growth can be problematic for those with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD. People with immune deficiencies can also suffer symptoms such as wheezing, coughing and difficulty breathing from mold exposure. Certain people are allergic to mold spores and experience symptoms such as itching eyes, nasal congestion, sneezing and watering eyes. The elderly, young children and pregnant women are at an increased risk of developing complications from mold exposure.
  
  

Removal

• Mold growth is often removed with liquid dish detergent and water. However, people with respiratory diseases, immune-mediated diseases or allergies to mold may use cleaners known as biocides to remove mold. These substances are designed to kill mold spores and remove mold growth. If you choose to use biocides to remove mold, ventilate the area well and wear protective goggles, long pants and sleeves, shoes and gloves. Anyone who is allergic to mold or has any medical problems should not be in the home when mold is being removed with biocides or any other cleaner. Never mix bleach or other cleaners with biocides as toxic fumes can develop. Wet the area you wish to clean with water. Scrub the mold away using biocide cleaners and a soft brush. Rinse the mold away and dry the area thoroughly. Biocides are not recommended for porous surfaces such as carpet or ceiling tiles. Porous surfaces are difficult to clean and should be removed and replaced if mold growth is present.
  
  

Repair

• After removing mold growth, you must repair the source of moisture to avoid the return of mold growth. Repair all water leaks after cleaning up mold. Increased indoor humidity can also cause mold to grow, so be sure to install ventilation fans in your bathrooms and kitchens to reduce humidity levels. Running your air conditioner or dehumidifier can also keep the indoor humidity low and prevent mold growth.