For those who suffer from an allergy to mold and mildew spores, the key to managing their condition is by employing proactive measures. While it is impossible to totally avoid exposure to mold spores in the outside world, the afflicted can create allergen free zones by cleaning rigorously and being vigilant about the amount of moisture that collects within and directly outside their homes. Here are a few different ways you can prevent the spread of mold and mildew in your home.
Keep Your Home Dry
While there are thousands of different types of mold and mildew, they all share one common trait; they can only grow in areas which have a lot of moisture. To address this issue, you can install a series of dehumidifiers or an air-conditioning system in your home. Both appliances have the effect of removing moisture from the air. By installing an air-conditioning system that runs throughout your home or by putting dehumidifiers in areas that often collect moisture, such as bathrooms and basements, you make your living space inhospitable to the development of mold or mildew.
Keep Your Bathroom and Kitchen Clean and Dry
If they are not properly ventilated, your bathroom and kitchen can quickly become a breeding ground for mold and mildew. The reason being, hot showers and running dishwashers put a great deal of moisture in the air. If that moisture isn’t removed from the air by a dehumidifier or ventilated out, it can collect on the walls, floors and ceilings of those areas. Dehumidifying or ventilating those rooms will take care of most of the problem, but you should also make sure they are cleaned regularly and thoroughly with a cleanser that is at least partially made up of bleach. Doing so will eradicate microscopic mold and mildew spores that might have made their way into your home.
Make Sure There Are No Leaks in Your Basement
Another common way for mold and mildew to infest a home is through the basement. As basements are located underground and often contain several exposed pipes and laundry machines, they are typically rife with moisture and dampness. As such, it’s a good idea to place one or more dehumidifiers and regularly check your pipes for any sign of leakage. You should also make sure the area surrounding your washer is dry and that your dryer’s ventilation system is properly sealed. Regularly checking the area on the outside of your home where your dryer vents moisture is mold free is also recommended.
If you’re concerned that your mold or mildew allergy is not properly under control, contact us today to set up an appointment. Dr. Shukla has the expertise to prescribe a course of treatment that will minimize the impact your allergies have on your quality of life.
