The Fungal Jungle: What's Growing in Your Appliances?

Did you know that there are over 100,000 different types of mold? Of those, over 1,000 different types are found in homes in the US! Mold is more common than we think, and it can also be more dangerous than we think.

Americans spend 90% of their time in enclosed buildings, and 60% of their time in their home; these statistics give us a decent understanding of how much mold can affect us. The air you breathe indoors can be worse than the air you breathe outside. Studies find a direct correlation between a high presence of mold in households, and those inhabitants having depression. So, with this sort of doom and gloom, what are we supposed to do?

Get cleaning of course! Thankfully, keeping mold levels low in your home is a manageable task. First, if possible, remove the mold as best you can, clearing out visibly moldy sections of the area you are cleaning. When doing this, do not disturb the mold too much, as it can release harmful spores. These spores can also spread, so it is best to seal off the immediate area you are working in. Sealing off the area is especially important when dealing with black mold and other harmful molds. Secondly, mold is susceptible to acids like bleach or vinegar, and can be taken care of with simple application. Finally, remember that mold is promoted by wet environments, so dealing with moisture levels is the best way to prevent future breakouts.