Children's Health

Prevent Mold

Although there are thousands of kinds of molds, few produce toxins. But household molds can trigger allergy symptoms in allergy sufferers. So avoiding mold can help you avoid eye irritation, congestion, and other allergy-related symptoms. And the best way to avoid mold is to avoid moisture.

• Keep the house dry -- don't let water build up anywhere, ventilate damp rooms, wipe shower walls and doors after use.
• Don't leave wet clothes in the washing machine where mold can quickly grow.
• Wash shower curtains and bathroom tiles regularly with mold-killing products.
• Don't have too many indoor plants -- especially in the bedroom -- as mold can grow in plant soil.
• Fix any leaks or seepage in the house, indoors and out.
• Put plastic over dirt in crawlspaces and keep them well ventilated.
• Use exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathrooms.
• Turn off humidifiers if you see condensation on windows.
• Use dehumidifiers and air conditioners in basements and other areas of the house where mold tends to grow, especially in hot humid climates.
• Clean dehumidifiers and humidifiers every week.
• On concrete floors, remove carpet and use area rugs that can be lifted and washed, or install a vapor barrier over the concrete.