Mold and mildew spores in homes and buildings can cause respiratory diseases, asthma, allergies and other illnesses. It is difficult to remove mildew and mold from softer surfaces such as carpets, furniture and drywall and odors may not always reveal where hidden mildew is growing. To avoid allergies and illnesses, prevent mildew by checking areas that it is likely to grow in and removing it quickly. Rotting wood, carpets and drywall with extensive mold and mildew should be removed and safely disposed of. When cleaning, a mask and gloves should be worn to avoid inhaling spores.
Environmentally Friendly Ways to Prevent and Remove Mold and Mildew
Turn down the heat in rooms that are not in use and when no one is home, especially in high humidity areas such as bathrooms, laundry rooms and basements. Colder temperatures discourage the growth of mold and mildew on floors and walls.
Molds and mildew thrive in humid areas. Turn on ventilation fans or a dehumidifier, or open a window to properly ventilate a room with fresh cool air. Indoor humidity levels should not exceed about 50 percent.
Check for damp areas around the home, such as in the basement, in closets, under sinks and around hot water tanks and plumbing. Also ensure that clothes dryers are vented to the outdoors. While drying clothes indoors is economical, place them in a well aired area to prevent humidity.
Even putting wet dishes in your kitchen cupboards will increase the moisture content that molds, mildews and bacteria like to grow. Let dishes air dry, clean up any spills, don’t put away wet umbrellas and avoid leaving damp laundry piles or wet towels in the bathroom. In the summer time, an outdoor laundry line is the best way to dry wet laundry – not to mention the cheapest and most environmental friendly.
Also check for leaks in plumbing, around bathtubs and shower stall and under sinks.
Replace Carpets and Wallpaper
High moisture areas such as kitchens, bathrooms and basements should never have carpets installed. Area rugs should be aired out regularly. Carpets and other absorbent surfaces cannot be cleaned of mold and mildew effectively and should be disposed. Also try wood flooring with area rugs in bedrooms and living areas to prevent molds, mildew and dust from accumulating.
In the same way, wallpaper also attracts humidity and it is better not to wallpaper walls to prevent mold and mildews.
Clean Mold and Spores from Showers, Bathtubs and Floors
Cleaning away spores prevents mold and mildew from growing. Clean shower stalls, bath tubs, floors regularly with the environmentally friendly (and human friendly) cleaners. Clean out fridges so that mold doesn’t have a chance to grow on decaying food and send spores into the air.
Shower heads can harbor spores and bacteria that may causes illness; clean and disinfect by soaking in a bowl of vinegar or replace very old shower heads.
Also avoid wearing shoes indoors. Shoes track in dirt, toxins and spores from the outdoors. In a warm home, these may flourish into mold, mildew and bacteria colonies.
Non-toxic Anti-Fungal and Anti-Bacterial Cleaners
Bleach and commercial mold and mildew cleaners are toxic to both the environment and the health of people and pets. Try natural anti-fungal sprays containing eucalyptus and tea tree essential oils for a safe, effective solution. Vinegar is also an effective cleaner.
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Reference:
Pinn, Graham, Herbal Medicine: A Practical Guide For Medical Practitioners, New York, NY: Wiley-Blackwell, 1982.
Noreen Kassem - Noreen Kassem is a hospital doctor based in London, UK. She has extensive experience in clinical research and an undergraduate honors ...
