Tag Archives: Mold Inside Your Home

Is There Mold In Your Washer? Here’s How To Identify And Get Rid of It

Is There Mold In Your Washer? Here's How To Identify And Get Rid of It

Is There Mold In Your Washer? Here’s How To Identify And Get Rid of It

Mold problems can lurk in places that you might not expect, like inside your washing machine. Water, laundry detergent and fabric softeners can all contribute to the growth of mold.

If you’ve never cleaned the inside of your washing machine, you could have a mold problem without realizing it. Your Manhattan mold removal experts want to help you identify it, get rid of it, and keep mold away for good.

Identifying a Mold Problem in Your Washer

The most obvious sign of a mold problem in your washer might be the smell. Your washer may take on the smell of rotten eggs, and eventually, that odor can make its way into your clothes as well. If you only use the cold water setting on your machine, you have an even greater chance of having mold.

Getting Rid of Mold in Your Washing Machine

If you think you have a mold problem, follow these steps to remove it.

• You’ll need rubber gloves, an old towel and either bleach and hot water or vinegar and hot water (never mix vinegar and bleach).

• Use the old towel to clean the entire inside of the machine.

• Run a wash cycle on the hottest setting using either vinegar or bleach.

• Wipe down the inside of the machine and leave it open to finish air-drying.

Preventing Mold Growth in Your Washer

A quick wipe-down is all that you need to keep your washer mold-free. For any other mold problems, contact your Manhattan mold removal specialists for assistance.

Steps To Identifying Mold In Your Home

Steps To Identifying Mold In Your Home

Steps To Identifying Mold In Your Home

Due to associated health risks and potential structural damage, Manhattan mold removal should be done as soon as an infestation is discovered. The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) offers guidelines for identifying mold in homes and commercial buildings.

Tips for Identifying Indoor Mold

• Indoor mold grows when excess moisture meets organic materials such as wood, paint, wallpaper and carpeting that serve as a food source.

• While it’s not possible or necessary to completely eliminate the presence of mold spores indoors, visible mold growth should always be removed as soon as possible.

• Visual inspection is the primary focus of indoor mold identification.

• Mold inspection should go beyond open surfaces to include hidden spaces, such as behind drywall and inside ventilation systems. Moisture meters and infrared cameras can facilitate the process.

• Care should be taken to minimize disruption of mold colonies, which could lead to further spread of the infestation. Use of gloves, masks and other personal protective equipment is recommended.

• A thorough inspection includes determining the source of the excess moisture and taking steps to correct the problem.

• In most cases, environmental sampling isn’t required before proceeding with remediation.

• The DOHMH recommends obtaining the assistance of a Manhattan mold removal professional for assessment and creating a plan of action.

Stern Mold: Leaders in Manhattan Mold Removal

Get peace of mind with effective mold remediation by our friendly and experienced technicians. Contact Stern Mold to schedule a free mold inspection.

Tips on Fixing Your Indoor Air Quality

Poor Air Quality Due to Mold Could Be Affecting Your Health

Poor Air Quality Due to Mold Could Be Affecting Your Health

The air you breathe inside your home can have an impact on your health. Poor indoor air quality from mold, pollen and other allergens and pollutants can cause respiratory stress and related health problems. The following tips can help you improve your indoor air quality.

Maintain Healthy Humidity Levels

Too much humidity in your home can increase your risk of needing Manhattan mold removal services. High humidity provides mold with the right environment to grow and thrive. Lower humidity helps reduce the risk of mold and mildew growth inside your home. You can control humidity by using a dehumidifier and running the exhaust fan in your bathroom while showering or bathing.

Change Your Air Filter

Changing your home’s air filter in your HVAC system can also help lower the risk of having mold, dust and other allergens spread throughout your home. These filters trap mold spores and stop them from getting through your ducts and vents. Over time, air filters can harbor mold and other particles that lower indoor air quality, so it’s important to replace them regularly.

Clean Your Ductwork

You could have mold growing in your ducts or a buildup of dust and other particles that make the air in your home unhealthy. Have your ducts inspected and cleaned as needed to prevent these indoor allergens and pollutants from lowering your indoor air quality.

If you need Manhattan mold removal for your home, please contact Stern Mold today to learn more about our services.