Household mould – is it a health hazard?
As winter hits all parts of Australia, here in the west, we get the most rain in these few months….and the most humidity. And by definition….the highest risk of mould.
Whether it's the slimy black spots on your shower curtain, the fuzzy white patches on your walls, or the slick orange film that forms on your kitchen sink, household mould is more than just ugly, it can make you sick.
Mould is insipid fungus, toxic and dangerous. It needs treating at the source, by the right cleaning solutions, and, if serious, by a building biologist (mould expert).
The list of infections, symptoms and conditions can include:
- sinus issues
- skin infections
- yeast infections
- respiratory infections and exacerbation of asthma
- headaches
- aching joints
- asthma
- fatigue
- loss of libido
- depression and anxiety
- slow wound healing
Connecting the dots with symptoms and mould can be a long, drawn-out process as the symptoms can be so many other things, and, the mould is not always seen in your house for you to even realise it is there.
Mould thrives in damp and humid conditions, in places that are not well ventilated. These conditions are often exacerbated along Australia's eastern seaboard with damp, humid summers.
Some tips for controlling mould
It's impossible to get rid of all mould and mould spores in your home, but because mould spores can't grow without moisture, reducing moisture in your home is the best way to prevent or eliminate mould growth.
If there is already mould growing in your home, it's important to clean up the mould and fix the problem causing dampness. If you clean up the mould but don't fix the problem, the mould will return.
If the mould is very bad, you may need to consider a building biologist to come in and assess and fix the problem.
Tips for reducing moisture in your home:
Use dehumidifiers and air conditioners to reduce moisture in the air
Keep indoor humidity below 60% if possible
Add insulation to cold surfaces, such as exterior walls, floors, and windows to reduce condensation
Dry wet areas within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mould growth
Open windows and doors to increase circulation. Increase air circulation by using fans and moving furniture from wall corners
Use exhaust fans to move moisture outside whenever you are cooking, using tumble dryers, or cleaning
Check for leaks around the kitchen and bathroom sinks, refrigerators and other sources of water