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Mold and mildew are common occurrences after a flood or water has damaged your home. It is essential that these are removed immediately as they can affect those that live in the home. Individuals sensitive to lung disease would do well to stay out of the infected home during mold removal.

Mold grows because of the presence of moisture which can come from leaky roof or plumbing. Even excessive use of humidifier can cause moisture. In the kitchen or bathrooms, if there is no proper ventilation, moisture can set in coupled with water from toilets and sinks that may have overflowed on the floor.

How do you know if mold is present in your home? Mold may be visible and can appear in different colors and textures. Often it looks like a discoloration on your tiled floor or a stain. It smells musty and may be found in water-damaged areas. It is also possible that household members have allergy-like symptoms as a first sign that mold has affected your home.

Mold removal is tricky. It is possible that mold is growing even if you do not see the mold on the wet item or material. If the material has been wet for two or more days, take them outside. Wash with hot water those that are made of textile. The hot water can kill the mold. For floors, stoves, flatware, plates and the like, use bleach for mold removal.

It is important that during mold removal, you are well-protected. Protect yourself with rubber boots, gloves, goggles, and mask. Mold spores may spread during the cleanup and inhalation of such may cause asthma.

Since you shall be using bleach for mold removal, ensure that air is moving around the house by opening doors and windows. Allow fresh air to come in. The smell of bleach can be suffocating.

Prepare the mold removal solution by taking one cup of bleach dissolved in a gallon of water. Wash items with this solution. Use a stiff brush when the surface of the material is rough. Use only clean water to rinse and dry by leaving them outside. Remember never to mix ammonia with bleach as this can prove to be toxic.

Mold removal in a nutshell comprise of the following steps: (1) looking and fixing the source of moisture; (2) drying the wet areas and materials; (3) discarding or throwing away of wet materials; (4) restoration of contaminated items or discarding them altogether; (5) surface cleaning and washing; and (6) disinfecting.