There are only four things that is required for mold growth. Moisture, temperature, food and oxygen must be present. If you remove just one of these factors from the equation you will not have a toxic mold issue.
Mold needs a moist environment such as spilled drinks to grow.
Mold also needs oxygen to survive. Sure, mold needs moisture to live but, like us, they will drown if they are cut off from their oxygen supply. Obviously, removing oxygen from the equation would likely cause you more discomfort before it has any effect on mold growth.
Not unlike humans, molds prefer comfortable temperatures. Unfortunately, the temperature range of most molds is the same range of temperatures that humans feel the most comfortable. Indoor temperatures can be controlled if you have a thermostat. However, changing the temperature to stop mold growth is also not an ideal solution as the temperatures that mold growth is inhibited are temperatures that humans are also uncomfortable with.
Therefore, the only element that we can control, thus becomes, the mold’s food source. By removing the mold’s food source, there can be no mold growth, even if moisture exists.
By reducing the dust from surfaces, you are also reducing the amount of mold food.
Remove mold with the use of cleaning sprays.
However, one needs to be aware of certain issues that may arise. Using too much or using cleaners improperly may leave you with more mold growth than when you began your cleaning project.
Cleaners used on dirty surfaces will likely kill any mold growth that the cleaner initially comes in contact with but the residual moisture could actually help to promote future growth. Prevent this from happening by making sure that the surface is wiped and dried off immediately after spraying.
Carpets that have not been thoroughly dried, can also retain enough moisture for mold to grow on.
Damp clothing is good for mildew. Most closets are not adequately ventilated and clothes become musty.
Surfaces can be damaged by cleaners. From this, water or humidity can infiltrate in. Dirt, dust or wood, can join to provide a nice environment for the mold to proliferate from.
Even when growth does not occur, damage to walls may become visually apparent, such as lifting of the paint or laminate. Once surfaces are damaged, it will be easier for mold to grow next time.
There can be allergy symptoms from chemical cleaners can cause sneezing, etc; not unlike the allergic reactions that you may get from excessive mold exposure.
Always ensure that you have adequate ventilation upon using cleaning agents. Also, use gloves and eye protection to protect from splashes where appropriate.
Bear in mind that thousands of mold spores are typically inhaled by each of us daily. Mold is ubiquitous. It is close to impossible to remove all of the airborne particulates from your environment but you can prevent the proliferation of toxic levels of mold growth in your home or work place.
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