Some species of mold produce toxic compounds, called mycotoxins. Mycotoxins on mold spores have been linked to illness and disease in people and pets.
Most at risk are babies and small children; people with weak immune systems; those with lung or respiratory problems; the elderly; and people sensitive to allergens. Anyone can develop mold-related illness through prolonged or concentrated exposure to mycotoxins. Food contaminated with toxic mold has been fatal to humans and animals.
Almost half the homes in America have some mold growth. Several species of toxic mold can exist together. Black mold is common, and so is Aspergillus. If dark spots appear on walls or in bathrooms, or a musty odor is present, there is no doubt the house has mold.
All species of mold respond to the same treatment.
Mold Removal
Mold grows in dark, damp places.
Inspect the house for leaks from pipes, and seeping or standing water on roofs. Rainwater can drain from the roof into the walls. Check for discolored ceiling tiles and water stains. Examine floor coverings. Rugs and carpets can also trap humidity and encourage mold growth.
Even a small leak can create an ideal environment for mold. Toxic mold can quickly infest the building structure. Mold consumes anything organic, and lives on wood, drywall, insulation, dust, paper, clothing and upholstery, carpets and ceiling tiles, house plants and tile grout.
Look around bathtubs, shower stalls and curtains, behind the washing machine and dishwasher. Check under window sills, behind pictures and draperies, and anywhere moisture can condense. Dark, humid basements and crawl-spaces are favorite habitats of toxic mold.
The occasional growth of mold doesn't mean the house is infested. Mold spores are always present. They can float in through doors, windows, or air ducts, or piggyback on people, pets and dust. A spore germinates within a day, if it lands in a dark, moist place.
If dark patches of mold are found, sponge or scrub with a mild detergent, or bleach. Bleach kills mold, and disinfects. For tile grout or roofs, use a stiff brush. Mold can't live without humidity. Dry the area thoroughly.
Small amounts of mold are harmless, but in some cases, a few spots on the wall could point to a serious problem. Toxic mold can create vast colonies behind walls. If spot-cleaning doesn't work, take aggressive action. Get to the source of the mold. If necessary, call a professional mold remediator to deal with the problem.
When handling moldy materials, wear protective gloves and goggles. If mold is disturbed, it releases millions of spores into the air. Wear a respirator, or a dust filter mask of N-95 or higher. Close off the affected area of the house with plastic.
Rip out any moldy drywall, insulation, ceiling or structural materials. Clean and disinfect the area with detergent and bleach. Fix leaks, dry everything completely and replace with new material.
Throw out moldy rugs or carpet underpadding. Clean carpets with a deep carpet extractor or steam cleaner. Check under floors for mold growth.
Increase air circulation and dry out the house. Use fans, blowers and dehumidifiers if necessary. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends an air humidity level of 45% or less, to discourage mold growth.
Mold Prevention
Keep moisture levels down, and improve air circulation to prevent the regrowth of toxic mold. Avoid over-watering plants. Make sure rainwater drains away from the house. Use an air purifier with a HEPA filter. The smaller filtration system traps airborne mold spores.
If a family member shows symptoms of toxic mold reaction, see a doctor.
Mold has its role in nature, but can be hazardous in the family home. Cleanup and prevention will get rid of toxic mold, and keep it from coming back.
