Mold Facts

• Mold is a fungus found in the home and outdoors.
  
  
Tiny mold seeds (spores) float in the air and are inhaled into the lungs.


Outdoor molds cause asthma problems more often than indoor molds.


Outdoor mold allergy can cause severe asthma problems.


Outdoor molds are a greater problem in farming areas such as the prairies than in coastal regions.


Outdoor molds are worse in spring and fall.


Outdoor molds are found on plants and in soil, rotting wood, compost, sheds and garages.


Indoor molds grow in damp, warm, dark spaces such as basements where there is poor air flow.


Mold can be a problem if moisture collects on your home’s windows or walls.

Outdoor Avoidance

• Keep house and car windows closed in the spring and fall, especially on windy or humid days.
  
  
If possible, use air conditioning in the home to keep the humidity level down.


Avoid raking or cutting the grass if you have a mold allergy.


Keep the yard free from decaying plant material.


Talk to your doctor if you are having asthma problems with outdoor activities.


More asthma or hayfever (rhinitis) medicine may be needed during the spring and fall.


If you have a mold allergy, use your Asthma Action Plan to adjust your asthma medicine during the spring and fall.

Indoor Avoidance

• Keep indoor humidity below 50%. Humidity can be measured with a device called a hygrometer, found at most hardware stores.
  
  
Clean damp areas once a week with 1 part bleach to 10 parts hot water. Do not mix bleach with any other cleaning product.


Avoid wallpaper and carpeting in the bathroom.


Fix any indoor water leaks. Clean up indoor water puddles.


Do not use a humidifier in the bedroom.


Limit the number of plants in the home. Keep live and dried plants out of the bedroom.


Vent the clothes dryer to the outside. Dry clothes promptly.


• Avoid damp basements.
  
  
• Use a dehumidifier in a damp basement.
  
  
• Do not put carpeting directly on cement floors.
  
  
• Clean air conditioners, humidifiers and dehumidifiers as advised by the manufacturer.
  
  
• Use mold inhibiting paint in damp areas such as basements and bathrooms.
  
  
• Discard moldy or musty smelling objects.
  
  
• Always use exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom.