10 Secret Places Mold Could Be Hiding in Your Home

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Many people think mold only grows in obvious spots like bathrooms and basements but mold spores will make a home in the smallest, most hidden nooks. Mold can grow in areas we never think about, all it takes is a minor water leak or lingering humidity.

While mold is subtle, it’s far from harmless. Finding it early can prevent your home from being dirtier, smellier, and less healthy. Here are 10 spots you might not think to check.

Under the Kitchen Sink

The cabinet under the kitchen sink is a mold haven. Moisture can accumulate without notice if there’s a small leak. Now and again, take a flashlight and move things around under the sink to see if there’s any mold growth.

Inside Window Tracks

Window tracks can hold more than dust. When there is a little warmth, and a little lack of airflow, the environment becomes mold friendly. If you spot black or green patches in the corners of the track, it’s time for a good cleaning.

Behind the Refrigerator

The back of the fridge is probably one of the most ignored spots in the house. There’s moisture from condensation, the warmth from the motor, and it’s dark, making it perfect for mold. A good way to keep mold from sneaking in and growing unnoticed is to pull the fridge out every few months to give it a quick clean.

Shower Curtains

Fabric shower curtains are mold magnets. They’re constantly exposed to water and once folded up or left in a humid bathroom, they’re a perfect place for mold to settle. And if they’re moldy, regular wash, or a quick spritz with a vinegar solution, will do the trick.

Washing Machine

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Washing machines can be breeding grounds for mold, many people forget. In particular, front load washers are susceptible to mold growth around the door in the rubber gasket. It’s helpful to wipe down this gasket after each load, and leave the door open to let it air out.

Under Carpeting

If you have wall to wall carpet, there could be mold underneath you don’t know about. Basements, for instance, and bathrooms near carpeting, or any wrinkle that traps moisture might allow moisture under the carpet for mold growth.

Behind Wallpaper

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Mold can grow and hide behind the wallpaper, if there’s a small leak in the wall and you don’t see it. You may see the wallpaper peeling or see slight discoloration. It’s worth checking behind wallpaper in rooms that are often humid in older homes, especially.

Houseplants

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A mold friendly environment also occurs when plants are overwatered and water stays in the pot or in the tray. If you see white or grayish patches on the soil, it’s most likely mold. Water plants sparingly and don’t let water sit in the pot, as mold will set roots.

Chimneys

Despite what you might think, chimneys can harbor mold. If you smell a musty smell around your fireplace or chimney, get it inspected, because that’s a signal of mold hiding inside.

Air Conditioning and Heating Ducts

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Mold can ride around your home on dust and moisture that collects in the air ducts. If you are able to get your ducts cleaned professionally every year or two, you will able to minimize the risk of spreading mold around your home.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.