mold is very bad . Mold can cause health problems and damage your property. But, no need to worry: we’re here to teach you how to get rid of mold from every surface in your home.
what is mold?
Mold is a fungal growth that forms and spreads on various kinds of damp or decaying organic matter. There are many different mold species that come in many different colors. Molds are sometimes referred to as mildew. They are found both indoors and outdoors in all climates, during all seasons of the year.
Why is mold bad?
Fungi can be both harmful and beneficial. Some species of fungi, such as varieties of Aspergillus, can be harmful and have even been associated with cancer. Penicillium notatum is a species of fungus discovered to kill certain species of bacteria. Fungi also play a crucial role in the ecosystem by breaking down organic matter and recycling crucial molecules back into the environment.
What are the major characteristics used to identify molds?
Mold is a type of fungus and is placed in the fungi kingdom. These organisms are much different than plants both in their structure as well as how they obtain energy. Unlike plants, fungi secrete enzymes that break down organic substances. They absorb these organic substances and use them for energy.
How do I know if I have a mold problem?
You can usually see or smell a mold problem. Mold can appear as slightly fuzzy, discolored, or slimy patches that increase in size as they grow. Most molds produce musty odors that are the first indication of a problem. Mold can grow anywhere there is adequate moisture or a water problem. The best way to find mold is to look for signs of mold growth, water staining, warping, or to follow your nose to the source of the odor. It may be necessary to look behind and underneath surfaces, such as carpets, wallpaper, cabinets, and walls. There are some areas of the home that are always susceptible to mold growth and should be part of routine cleaning to control mold growth. These are:
- Bathrooms; especially shower stalls, bathroom tiles, and shower curtains
- Window moldings
- The seal on the refrigerator door
- Surfaces on and around air conditioners
How to Stop Black Mold
- Have a plastic bag ready to take away any soft furnishings, clothes and soft toys that are moldy.
- Simply mix one part bleach to four parts water.
- Using a damp cloth gently scrub until the mold is gone .Be careful not to brush it, as this can release mold spores.
- Once finished, dry the area well with a soft cloth or rag.
- Afterwards, put the rags in a plastic bag and throw them away.
- All the surfaces in the room should be thoroughly cleaned by either wet wiping or vacuuming to remove any spores.
Remember however, this is not a long term solution and you really need to tackle the cause of the mold to ensure it doesn’t come back.
Is Vinegar More Effective Than Bleach at Killing Mold?
Vinegar truly is better than bleach at killing mold. The EPA does not recommend using bleach to kill or remove mold, except in special circumstances. In most cases, “a background level of mold spores will remain” after the application of bleach.
“Bleach only kills surface mold, not the membrane underneath,” according to ServiceMaster. “That means the mold will grow back. In fact, recognizing the bleach as a ‘threat,’ the mold will grow back even stronger.” When bleach is used on porous surfaces like drywall or wood, mold membranes will move deeper into the surface to avoid the chemical.