Toxic mold might not be a new term in your household. Molds are not inherently poisonous or toxic. However, some species are considered toxigenic, which means they produce mycotoxins.
Mycotoxins are a chemical byproduct of metabolic processes, including anything done to maintain life, such as cellular respiration or converting food into energy. Unfortunately, some mycotoxins cause a deadly response in animals and humans, even if it’s just in small amounts.
Mold spores can land on damp indoor areas. Once they do, they start growing and digesting anything they are growing on to survive. This is why mold is known for breeding in moist areas. They are also known for growing on paper, food, wood, carpet, and other surfaces.
Toxigenic Molds
Toxigenic molds are often mistaken for toxic mold. As mentioned before, they are responsible for creating metabolic byproducts known as mycotoxins. They are separate from the spores that are produced by mold for reproduction. However, the chemicals released can become airborne and travel easily with mold spores.
According to research, mycotoxins also travel through the air on minuscule dust particles or small pieces of wallpaper, both of which can be inhaled easily. Note that having toxigenic mold species in your area doesn’t necessarily mean that there are mycotoxins present as well. Unfortunately, it is impossible to determine if a mold is releasing mycotoxins just by looking at it.
Pathogenic Molds
Pathogenic molds are known for having the ability to infect humans, even the ones in good health. A certain genus of mold includes ones that can be considered allergenic. Some are even regarded as pathogenic. An example of this would be the Aspergillus genus, which has a variety of allergenic and pathogenic species.
How to Control Mold in Your Home
There are many ways to keep the mold growth in your house under control. The best method will always be to manage the moisture in your residence. Other courses of action that you can take include the following:
1. Address Any Water Leakage
It is vital to ensure that there is no leakage in any part of your home. If you are struggling with this issue, hiring a plumber or HVAC contractor is highly recommended. After all, water leaks are the most common cause of moisture that molds love to feed on.
2. Reduce the Humidity Indoors
The best level of humidity for homes is around 40%.
3. Use Exhaust Fans
It is important to use exhaust fans whenever you cook, clean, wash your dishes, and take a shower.
4. Use a Soap and a Sponge
If you encounter mold on any surface, you can clean it off using soap and a sponge.
5. Lightly Spray a Water Mist on Dry Moldy Areas
If you spot any dry moldy areas, you can spray them lightly with a water mist. Doing so will keep mold spores from spreading in the air as you clean.
6. Be Mindful When Using Bleach
When using bleach, you need to ensure that it will not cause discoloration. Remember not to mix ammonia and bleach since they can create toxic fumes.
7. Properly Dispose of Cleaning Materials
If you have just cleaned out spots of mold, you need to ensure that all the cleaning materials you used are disposed of properly in a heavy-duty garbage bag. Do not forget to seal it and take the bag outside through the nearest exit. After all, you don’t want any spores to spread through the air.
Conclusion
Getting your house inspected for mold infestation can save you and your family from any possible health risks. Whether or not the molds produce mycotoxins, it is still best to get rid of them as soon as possible. With the help of a mold inspector in Birmingham, AL, you can rest assured that your home is mold-free.
Let’s Do It Home Inspections offers comprehensive home inspection services. Our clients can have confidence that our team can thoroughly inspect your property, no matter how big or small it is. If you are interested in hiring experts on mold inspections in Birmingham, AL, contact us today.