Avoid Mold Damage and Loss with Practical Tips

Among the most troublesome places for mold growth are closets, where both building materials and personal items can suffer from costly and disruptive damage. Closets often provide an ideal environment for mold to thrive; their spaces are dark and stuffy, prone to unaddressed moisture, and crammed with organic nourishment sources for mold and mildew organisms. Fortunately, following simple tips can significantly reduce the risk of mold growth by focusing on moisture control and improved ventilation.

Direct Moisture Control

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) stresses that controlling moisture can help  prevent mold growth in closets and elsewhere. Spores require water, even in tiny amounts found in excessive humidity (water vapor), to germinate and multiply into mold colonies. Practical hints to eliminate closet moisture include:

  • Periodic deep cleaning of each closet is vital to detect and repair any hidden spills, leaks, or seepage. Remove all items before cleaning and drying surfaces.
  • Ensure that clothing and other items are clean and dry before putting them away, paying particular attention to damp footwear, outerwear, and exercise or sports wearables or equipment. Use drying racks or hooks in open areas to help fully dry items prior to placing items in your closet.
  • Avoid storing dirty laundry inside closets, and keep closet doors closed when nearby bathrooms are in use to prevent moisture from showers or baths from entering.
  • Set up a dehumidifier adjacent to closets, especially if closets are near high-moisture spaces. You can also use moisture-absorbing products, such as a small container of baking soda, inside the closet to help reduce humidity.
  • Consider removing carpeting in closets, as it can trap and retain moisture.

Enhance Ventilation

Closets are usually closed in by design, inhabiting oddly shaped recesses without windows or other fresh air flow. Even custom-built and spacious walk-in closets and dressing areas can fail to include methods for reliable air exchange. Here are some straightforward ways to improve ventilation, which enhance other moisture reduction tactics to avoid mold growth:

  • Open the closet door.
  • Declutter the closet by winnowing out unused or out-of-season clothing and considering other storage spots for boxes and bins. Spread out hangers to create space around each item.
  • Use open weave or slatted boxes and containers for accessories to permit airflow.
  • Banish plastic garment bags--use breathable replacements if you want to protect individual articles.
  • Install and use an exhaust fan if possible in large dressing area-closet combinations. Use exhaust fans in nearby bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry areas to limit humidity drifting into your closets.
  • Use risers to lift shoes and containers off the floor.

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These strategies help immensely to inhibit mold infestations in your home’s closets. Take immediate action if you suspect your home already hosts mold growth and damage. Call AdvantaClean at (877) 800-2382 to schedule a professional assessment and discuss your options.

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