Mold in your home not only damages your property, it can also pose a serious health risk to you and your family. Look beyond the normal damp and dark spots in your home to locate these potential hiding spots for mold.
1. Refrigerator Drip Pans
Underneath your refrigerator is a drip pan to collect condensation, but it also tends to accumulate bits of food and other particles. This space never sees daylight, is moist, and is often warm from the motor of your fridge which creates a perfect breeding ground for mold right next to where you keep your food. Make it a part of your spring cleaning ritual (even twice a year if necessary) to remove this pan and scrub it clean with a hydrogen peroxide or white vinegar solution.
2. Window Sills
Window sills can often begin to grow mold due to a leaky seal. Water and dirt leak into the grooves, get trapped, and then get exposed to the sun which encourages mold to grow. Unless it is warmer weather or your windows are open often, the lack of airflow increases the likelihood of mold. Wipe out the tracks of the windows whenever you notice trapped moisture. Vacuum up dirt and debris and repair any broken sashes or seals. If mold is present, scrub it out with bleach and water.
3. Chimneys
With porous surfaces like brick and mortar, chimneys are culprits for collecting dirt, soot, and water. Damaged flashing or rusted chimney caps can also let in leaves, water, and snow which all combine to create perfect conditions for mold growth. Repair any broken flashing or rusted caps to prevent water and debris from entering your chimney before hiring a professional chimney sweep to clear dirt and mold.
4. Washing Machines
There are two places within a washing machine where mold accumulates: around the gasket of a front load washer and in the detergent chamber. The soap dispenser always stays damp with little to no exposure to the air and with the washer door always being closed, water and lint are able to build up and reside along the gasket which is a surefire way to create a home for mold. Keep the soap tray pulled out to air-dry between uses and make sure to dry off any water or debris that begins to collect on the gasket or on the door to prevent a moist spot for mold to exist. You can also simply leave the door open after washes until the door and gasket is dry.
5. Garage
The garage is the one place in your home that is exposed to the most elements. You wheel lawnmowers in and out with fresh cut grass attached to its blades and you park your cars dripping with rain or caked with snow. Mold can begin to gather quite easily in your dark, wet garage. Keeping your garage clean and organized is the best way to prevent mold. Install a Flow Wall organization system to unclutter your items and combat mold. Avoiding wood and using metal, vinyl, or plastic where you can creates more surfaces on which water will not accumulate for mold to multiply. Check the roof for leaks and open doors for proper ventilation. Wherever it may be hiding, the mold must be found and eliminated for the safety of your home and your family's health. Visit Flow Wall to improve your organization and avoid the messiness of mold cleanup.
