14 Sneaky Places Mold Could Be Growing in Your Home
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It may sound strange, but mold is not a problem that is only found in some dark basement or a forgotten corner, it can appear almost anywhere in your home. Mold thrives in dampness, warmth, and darkness. These three elements mold most commonly enjoys are in areas we would least expect.
While it might look relatively innocent at its beginning stage, mold leads to allergies, breathing problems, and even structural decay if not controlled. I am sure you don’t want that, so let’s look at sneaky places you regularly check for mold.
Kitchen Sink
As the sink is always in use the floor below is usually soaked with water due to spills and dripping. Even a drop of water can grow mold over time and it is very dangerous to health. That is why mold can grow here undetected, for it is dark, damp, and contains a lot of trapped moisture.
Window Sills
They are not often considered as mold areas but if there is condensation on the windows then there is the perfect environment for mold to thrive. Especially bad points to have high humidity are wooden or other porous surfaces, as water accumulated in such places will provide a suitable environment for mold.
Air Conditioning Units
Air conditioners cool the air by drawing in moisture, and if that moisture doesn’t dry out properly, it can collect within the unit. This humidity fosters the growth of mold in your home and this mold circulates through your home every time the unit is on.
Under Carpeting
As much as carpet may appear clean, any stain or even humidity can lead to moisture being trapped in the carpet. This dampness is concealed and over time may cause mold on the floor.
Bathroom Fixtures
Bathrooms are damp and mold enjoys residing in the vicinity of sinks, shower, and where tiles interconnect. Despite the fact that everything may look clean, mold grows in the smallest inconspicuous areas that are difficult to clean.
Washing Machine
washing machine can be a target of mold. The rubber seal around the door especially on front loading machine is a perfect pocket for water and detergent to form a mold.
Wallpaper
Despite the fact that wallpaper can be very attractive, it can retain moisture between the wallpaper and the wall. This moisture is often hidden and can turn into a breeding ground for mold if you live in an area with high humidity. If you see any signs of peeling, bubbling or even a mouldy smell, then there may be mould behind your wallpaper.
Refrigerator Seals
The gaskets on your refrigerator doors accumulate small quantities of food debris and moisture, which create the perfect environment for mold. If you see any black marks on the rubber seal, that is mold. Sometimes it is enough to clean the seals with a vinegar solution to prevent mold formation and keep them in good shape.
Houseplants
Generally, house plants are a good source of natural aesthetic and air quality improvement but if watered too much they become a good breeding ground for mold in the soil. According to beyondearth.com.my, indoor plant soil, for example, is composed of damp organic material — and mold spores just LOVE that. Just water your plants just enough and ensure that they are in pots with drainage system to avoid growth of mold.
Dishwasher
Your dishwasher exposes your items to water, heat, and steam often, all of which are favorite ingredients of mold. If it does not dry out completely after each cycle, it is possible for mold to develop inside of it. Always close the door slightly after each use to allow room to air out and to help avoid mold from developing in those corners that are difficult to clean.
The Attic
According to WebMD, basements are damp areas and can easily trap moisture if there are any problems with the roof. Trapped heat and vapor, in fact, create perfect conditions for mold to grow in any home. Check your attic at least once a year for signs of water spots, dampness or mold especially on wood surfaces or insulation.
Shower Curtains
Being part of a bathroom, shower curtains also face constant water and humidity and thus are a favorite place of mold formation. However, it may be growing on the underside and you may not even notice it.
Basement Pipes
Mold is common in basements because they are usually dark, damp and cool. Conducting pipes passing through the basement are another common reason where water condenses on these pipes and accumulates as moisture around them.
Ceiling Tiles
Ceiling tiles can accumulate water if they’re present in rooms that are more humid or have water leakage problems. This can become a problem if mold starts to colonize behind these tiles without being noticed.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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