where dirt and dust provide nutrients.
It does not grow on dry, clean synthetic carpet.
Toxic mold can seriously damage your lungs and central nervous system?
The mold Stachybotrys “produces very potent chemicals that can cause
brain fogginess, tremors, [and] problems with the memory” while Aspergillus
can cause cancer. Other molds produces allergens that can trigger allergic
reaction, chronic sinusitis, and asthma attacks.
What are molds?
Molds are microscopic fungi, a group of organisms which also includes mushrooms
and yeasts. Fungi are highly adapted to grow and reproduce rapidly, producing
spores and mycelia in the process.
You encounter mold every day. Foods spoil because of mold. Leaves decay
and pieces of wood lying on the ground rot due to mold. That fuzzy black
growth on wet window sills is mold. Paper or fabrics stored in a damp place
get a musty smell that is due to the action of molds.
Molds can be useful to people. The drug penicillin is obtained from a
specific type of mold. Some foods and beverages are made by the actions
of molds. The good kinds of molds are selected and grown in a controlled
fashion.
Molds are undesirable when they grow where we don’t want them, such
as in homes. Over 270 species of mold have been identified as living in
Canadian homes. Molds that grow inside may be different from the ones found
outdoors.
How to clean up small mold problems
“Small areas” of mold can be cleaned with a detergent solution.
Wear a mask, safety goggles and rubber gloves.
Seek professional help if there is a lot of mold or if mold comes back
after cleaning.
Clean “moderate areas” of mold, but wear proper protective
equipment and follow precautions.
Seek professional help if there is a lot of mold or if mold comes back
after cleaning.
Bleach is not recommended. The presence of organic (humic) materials, the
pH (acidity/alkalinity) of the water, the surface material and contact
time affect the effectiveness of bleach for disinfection. Since these factors
are not generally controlled, bleach cannot be relied upon for disinfection.The
most compelling reason for advising against bleach is that cancer-causing
substances can be formed by the reaction of bleach with organic materials.
In addition, the fumes are harmful.