We all have heard the term, 'mold' before, and getting substantial information about mold and related questions would really be helpful for all of us. I thought of writing this when one summer day, I took time out to read a few old magazines. Within minutes I started coughing and started having problems with respiration. I later found out that the magazine was affected by mold and all the mold cells were released, the moment I disturbed them. Below I have tried to accumulate various information regarding molds, so that people have a clear concept about molds. I will not start with the definition of molds, since most of us are well aware of it.

How does mold grow in our home and where can they grow?

Molds enter our homes as tiny spores, and on availability of moisture they begin to grow, digest and destroy. They can grow anywhere be it wood, carpet, insulation, tiles, wallpaper, etc. all they need is moisture or high humidity. There is no possible way to eliminate all mold spores or molds, but you can keep them under control by maintaining a home.

Do I have a chance to get exposed to molds?

Yes, you have a high chance of getting exposed to mold spores when the molds are disturbed and you breathe in the same air containing mold spores.

How do I understand that mold in my home is a real threat?

We all know that mold is a problem when you get a musty smell or find white specks or black spots. It is true that even dead molds are dangerous and can cause potential health problems, so the moment you find the presence of molds you should try to control it.

How can I cleanup moldy areas or moldy materials?

When you find the growth of molds, try and clean them up as soon as possible. Firstly, seal the area where there is a mold growth and open up all windows before you start cleaning up moldy areas. Secondly, dispose all moldy materials to the garbage container.

Cleanup of the hard moldy surfaces may require some time but make sure you follow all the precautions before taking up the cleaning process in your own hands. At the start, scrub the hard surface with warm water and mild detergent and let it dry. You may follow it by wiping the surface with bleach and water and repeating the process again in 20 minutes; and then let it dry for the next 20 minutes. Finally, apply a detergent solution based on borate, but mind it, do not RINSE; as it would reduce the chances of mold growth in future. Make sure that you clean the entire area and wash all beddings or clothing that has been exposed to molds.

Do you think painting over a moldy area would help in combating molds?

No way. If you do paint over a moldy area, the molds will keep on growing in the same area and with time it would peel through the paint.

It is true that molds are dangerous but if you can control them in their very early stages, it would never be a major problem. Make sure that you understand all the various aspects that need to be done when a part of your house is exposed to molds, there are solutions for everything. If you do have problems look for them on various websites and you sure would come across a solution for your problem.