Mold is a common problem in many homes, but it doesn't have to be. With the right preventative measures, you can keep your home free of mold and mildew for good. To start, you'll need to keep the humidity levels in your home as low as possible, no more than 50%. This will help prevent mold from growing and spreading.
Additionally, make sure that the air in your home flows freely and repair any leaks on the roof, walls, or pipes. It's also important to take care of wet items like towels and sportswear that are left in bags for too long. These can create an environment in which mold can flourish. To further prevent mold growth, consider tearing up carpets in damp basements, installing mold-resistant products, and repairing damaged gutters.
You can also use natural ingredients like vinegar, tea tree oil, citrus seed extract, hydrogen peroxide, and baking soda to get rid of mold at home. If fabric, upholstery, carpet, or furniture cannot be cleaned or dried, dispose of the item or call a professional cleaning service. In areas with high humidity like the kitchen or laundry room, make sure to provide adequate ventilation to prevent mold from growing on wooden cabinets. You may also want to consider using mold-resistant gypsum panels instead of traditional drywall as it is more resistant to mold growth and easier to remove and replace if necessary.
Finally, if you do find mold in your home, make sure to take care of it quickly as it can spread to a larger area if left untreated. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), “There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores from the indoor environment; the way to control mold growth indoors is to control humidity.” Don't risk the potential health risks that mold and mildew can cause to you and your family - take action now!.