November 2007
The basic facts about bathrooms and household mold
Mold is a fungus that thrives in warm, dark, humid environments. It spreads via spores that grow on wet or moist surfaces,
such as wood, wallboard, or bathroom tile.
Some people might experience sneezing, a stuffed or runny nose, itchy eyes, or a skin rash when they touch or inhale mold. It can trigger an attack in asthmatics who are allergic to mold. Some indoor molds, such as the highly publicized Stachybotrys chartarum, or “toxic black mold,” produce mycotoxins that have been reported to cause fever, headaches, fatigue, vomiting, internal bleeding, memory loss, and other impairments. While experts continue to disagree about whether exposure to molds such as Stachybotrys in the air causes serious illness, you should try to minimize or prevent mold in the living space:
Some people might experience sneezing, a stuffed or runny nose, itchy eyes, or a skin rash when they touch or inhale mold. It can trigger an attack in asthmatics who are allergic to mold. Some indoor molds, such as the highly publicized Stachybotrys chartarum, or “toxic black mold,” produce mycotoxins that have been reported to cause fever, headaches, fatigue, vomiting, internal bleeding, memory loss, and other impairments. While experts continue to disagree about whether exposure to molds such as Stachybotrys in the air causes serious illness, you should try to minimize or prevent mold in the living space:
- Fix leaks and clean up spills and water damage quickly.
- Use an exhaust fan or open a window when showering, dishwashing, and cooking.
- Keep humidity below 60 percent, using air conditioners or dehumidifiers.
- If mold isn't widespread, remove it from hard surfaces with 1 part bleach to 10 parts water. Wear an N-95 respirator mask
(available at hardware stores), rubber gloves, and goggles.
- If you smell a strong musty odor but can't find mold, consider hiring a professional mold remover. For cleanup tips and other
information, go to an Environmental Protection Agency Web site, www.epa.gov/iaq/molds/moldguide.html. Don't bother getting mold tests, because there are no standards for “safe” or “unsafe” levels.
