6 Unexpected Places Mold Can Hide in Your Home

Over the last two years, keeping our families safe has been more of a priority than ever before. We always want to protect our families by any means necessary, and that includes protecting them from external threats as well as internal. Keeping our houses clean can help minimize the risk of disease, for example, but that might not always be enough, as threats like mold can still spring up.

Mold is one of the most difficult threats to catch because it can gain a foothold in places that we don’t necessarily check every day. Mold removal can be a costly process, so read on for some more tips about how to know what to look for—and where to find it—in order to stop mold before it starts:

• Front-loading washing machines: These can be a boon for any household because they are so efficient and simple to use, but they can also invite mold growth. The gasket around the door gets wet during use, and most people close the door shut when it’s not in use. This ensures that it stays wet and gives mold a breeding ground. Engage in some DIY mold removal by wiping it dry after use.
• Fridge drip pans: This one is particularly hidden—after all, how often does one really check under their fridge?—but drip pans present a stellar opportunity for mold to grow. They collect moisture and food spills regularly and are hidden from view, so colonies can grow quickly without being noticed. Make it part of your routine to clean it at least twice a year.
• Chimneys: This one surprises a lot of folks since they assume smoke and heat keep these dried out, but in fact, flashing and caps at the top are the culprit. If in poor shape, they can let in water year-round, which can, in turn, create ideal conditions for mold inside the chimney. Prevent the need for mold removal services by scheduling regular chimney sweeps and inspections.
• Window sashes: Condensation that forms here can easily give mold the housing it needs. Wipe these down after heavy rains for best results. It’s also a good idea to open them at least a crack and let them air out.
• Dishes: Yes, mold can even form on items that you use regularly. If you stack dishes that are still wet and forget about them for a period, that gives mold the chance to gain a foothold. Make sure they’re totally dry before putting them back in the cabinet.
• Air conditioners: These trap dust and pollen, which mold love to eat, and function by grabbing moisture from the air. It doesn’t take long to see that this is a mold explosion waiting to happen. Clean your units before and after cooling season, and have your central HVAC checked regularly.

Preventing mold is well worth your time. If it gains a foothold, it can quickly cause your family to feel unwell, and removing it can be a process; however, the team at Ahold of Mold Environmental can make this smooth sailing. Call us today for mold removal, water damage restoration and air quality testing.

Categorised in: Mold Prevention