Despite the knowledge available about mold, there are still many false beliefs about its properties and how to handle it. We have compiled a list of frequent misconceptions about mold and the facts about each one in this article. This will help you have more straightforward information about the risks of mold and how to keep it away from your home.

Bleach Can Get Rid of Mold

Believing that bleach will eliminate mold is a popular misconception. While bleach can temporarily discolor visible mold, it does not kill the spores and may even encourage regrowth. Furthermore, bleach can worsen indoor air quality and cause health problems such as breathing difficulties, blurred vision, eye irritation, and nausea.

When dealing with a mold problem, it is best to take proper precautions and be cautious. Wear protective clothing such as gloves and a mask to protect yourself from mold. People with respiratory issues or weakened immune systems should avoid being in a space with mold. 

If the mold is severe, it is best to seek help from a professional trained in mold removal and cleaning. Get advice from local public health departments on mold testing and find someone who is an expert in mold removal. Always use caution when dealing with a serious mold problem.

Mold Cannot Grow in Dry Spaces

Mold needs moisture to survive, so people think that if an area is kept dry, the mold will disappear. But in reality, the mold just goes dormant and doesn't die. It can break into small pieces and spread through the air. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says that the mold should be killed and removed, as even dormant mold can cause allergic reactions.

Mold and mildew can develop quickly, usually within 24 to 48 hours, after water exposure. If not dealt with promptly, even a small water spill or leak can cause mold to spread. It is important to address the source of moisture and use a product to destroy the spores and roots to prevent mold from growing.

Washing Clothes Removes Mold Spores

Unfortunately, it's not true that all laundry products can get rid of mold or the accompanying odors. The fact is, most detergents, soaps, and other laundry products just don't have the right ingredients to do the job, so mold spores, stains, and smells can linger. But don't fret–with the right products and techniques, it is possible to eliminate mold and mildew from most fabrics and linens. 

If you have items that cannot be washed in the washing machine, such as upholstery, you should use a specific cleaner and a damp cloth to clean any small mold or mildew stains. If the upholstered furniture has been damaged by water and there is a lot of mold growth, it should be replaced. Additionally, silk, wool, or vintage clothing and upholstery should only be cleaned by a professional cleaner.

Wiping the Surface Will Eliminate Mold

In most cases, cleaning away mold from a surface will not eradicate the problem. Even if the visible mold is wiped away, the roots may still be present and the mold could return. It is important to note that mold can grow into porous materials such as drywall or concrete; therefore, just wiping away the surface mold will not solve the issue.

Conclusion 

To fully eradicate mold, getting rid of the roots is essential. It's similar to uprooting a weed in the garden; unless you remove the roots, the weed will just grow back. To make sure the mold is completely gone, make sure to completely remove the source.

For effective mold removal in Hartford, CT, choose Advanced Basement Waterproofing. We specialize in mold removal and basement waterproofing. Get your free online quote today.