One of the indications that you may have a household mold infestation is that you have allergy symptoms that are noticeably worse when you are home. For instance, if you have watery, itchy eyes, nasal congestion accompanied by a runny nose and sneezing that disappears or is significantly reduced when you’re out of the house for any length of time, your home may be suffering from a mold infestation.
Small amounts sometimes resemble everyday dirt and grime. However, mold is often impossible to detect with the naked human eye, and it frequently grows in places where visibility is low. For instance, the areas below sinks and behind large household appliances are prime spots for mold to grow. One of the main causes of mold is leaks in water pipes and in appliances such as washing machines and freezers. Even if you can’t see mold in these areas, you can often smell it. Mold has a musty odor that has been described as smelling like rotting wood or wet socks.
The best way to prevent mold growth is to inspect these areas for leaks on a regular basis and have any leaks repaired in a timely fashion. Bleach is also effective against mold, so routine cleaning with a bleach solution is recommended as a way to discourage the development of mold colonies. You should apply a bleach solution to anything that you suspect might be mold growth.
If have good reason to suspect that a mold infestation exists in your home but can’t pinpoint the source of it, having a home inspection performed by a professional is advised. Left unchecked, mold can do significant damage to your home as well as have negative consequences concerning your health and that of other household residents.