Category: Food Mold

Prevent Mold Growth on Your Halloween Pumpkin

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Prevent Mold Growth on Your Halloween Pumpkin

Cutting an extraordinary pumpkin for Halloween takes a ton of time and exertion. Numerous individuals get baffled when their show-stopper begins to mold just after Hallow’s Eve finds some conclusion. Fortunately, there are a few different ways to keep your pumpkins smiling and sans mold far past Halloween.

Bleach

Blend 1 teaspoon bleach for every gallon of water to make enough water to dunk the pumpkin into. You’ll require a tank and a decent measure of bleach/water, contingent upon the size of the pumpkin.

The thought is that bleach is antimicrobial, and that water will hydrate the skin of the pumpkin like a cream would on human skin.

Eliminate the pumpkin from the bleach arrangement and wipe off with paper towels or wipes.

Consistently, saturate the pumpkin with the bleach arrangement. Shower the outside and inside with the bleach arrangement used to treat the pumpkin at first. Absorb any overabundance dampness subsequent to showering. Dampness is the partner of mold.

Pumpkin Preservative

Buy a pumpkin additive. Pumpkin additive, similar to Pumpkin Fresh, is accessible on the web and at Halloween forte stores. Pumpkin additives may contain water, sodium tetraborate decahydrate (borax), and additionally sodium benzoate (an additive and fungicide). They go about as fungicides.

Shower the pumpkin with the additive or dunk the pumpkin into the additive. Showering is more advantageous, however dunking might be all the more durable.

In the case of deciding to dunk, make certain to wipe the pumpkin off. Recall that mold hits where dampness fits.

Keep on splashing the pumpkin with additive consistently. Splash the outside and inside with the additive and watch as it fends off mold and rot. Pumpkin additives help the pumpkin last moderately without mold for as long as 14 days.

You can likewise think about staying a parcel into the inside. This can help battle any dampness laying on the floor of the pumpkin. On the off chance that you have to delve little specialties in the pumpkin to shield the dabs from pounding while at the same time installing them, that is fine.

Silica

Discover some silica gel parcels. Silica is utilized as a desiccant, implying that it wicks away overabundance dampness. What makes your pumpkin begin decaying and molding? Overabundance dampness. The two are an underhandedly straightforward yet viable blend.

Check your storage room or bureau compartments, as you may have left some lying around from late buys. In the event that you can’t discover any, bundles of silica are accessible in mass at extremely efficient costs on the web. Silica parcels are to a great extent accessible with the accompanying things:

  • Hamburger jerky
  • Shoes and shoeboxes
  • Feline litter

Eliminate silica dots from their parcels. Try not to leave any lying around for your pets on the grounds that, while silica gel itself is nontoxic, here and there makers include other harmful synthetic compounds (for instance, cobalt chloride) to the item.

Insert the silica into the pumpkin. Eliminate the head of the pumpkin. Take a silica globule and implant it into the inside of the pumpkin. Try not to put the globule in so far that it changes the presence of the pumpkin’s outside.

While applying the dots, utilize 3/4 grams of silica for each 100 cubic crawls of pumpkin.

Need mold remediation services? Call RestoPros today!

5 Ways to Prevent Mold in Your Fridge

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ways to prevent mold in your fridge

You’ve heard of mold showing up in your basement. You’re also aware that mold can show up in your kitchen and bathroom. However, mold in your fridge is something you might not have heard of, because it isn’t as common. But it is possible. Moisture build up, accidental spills and spoiled food can create the perfect combination for refrigerator mold.

While refrigerator mold can be very annoying to deal with, it is also very easy to avoid. With proper maintenance and cleanliness, you can ensure mold doesn’t even come near your fridge. To help you out, the team at RestoPros has created a list of ways to prevent mold in your fridge.

1. Consistently Clean It Out

About once every couple of months, do a thorough cleaning of your fridge. We’re talking turning it off and removing all its contents. Yes, it takes time, but you end up with a clean fridge that will perform well and will most likely be mold free. Here is a quick guide to thoroughly cleaning your fridge:

  • Remove Food from the Fridge

This is obvious. To do a thorough cleaning of your fridge, you will have to remove all the jars and containers. To avoid spoiling your food, it’s best to do this cleaning before your weekly shopping trip so you have lesser items in the fridge. Also, remember to have a cooler to store items that need to be kept cool.

  • Take Out All Removable Parts and Wash

Take out removable parts such as crisper bins and shelving and wash them with regular dish soap and warm water. Be sure to let them dry out completely. You don’t want any moisture left over because it’s a clear invitation for mold. Use baking soda to clean particularly stubborn stains.

  • Clean the Gasket

The gasket is the rubber-like seal on your fridge’s door that keeps cold air from escaping. Use a solution of ½ water and ½ white distilled vinegar and wipe down the gasket—then, pat it dry with a paper towel.

2. Immediately Clean Up Spills and Get Rid of Spoiled Food

The moment you spill something in the fridge, clean it up immediately. If the spill is recent, you can use a paper towel or a cloth to soak it up. Then, use regular wipes or diluted vinegar to sanitize the area. If it’s a heavy spill, you can remove the shelf and wash it like we mentioned before.

If you notice any spoiled food in your fridge, it’s important you get rid of it by putting it in a plastic bag and throwing it in the trash. It only takes a few minutes and its one of the easiest ways to prevent mold in the fridge.

 3. Always Keep Food in An Airtight Container

This also seems like a no-brainer but one of the ways you can prevent mold in your fridge is by sealing the containers you keep your food in. You can store food in well-sealed Ziploc bags or Tupperware containers. Keeping food sealed in airtight containers keeps it fresh and away from mold spores floating in the air.

4. Use Up Processed Meats Quickly

Processed, cured or smoked meats such as ham, salami, bologna and pastrami must be used up quickly. While it’s normal for some cured meats to have some surface mold on them (scrape the mold off the meat to remove it), they should not be showing other signs of mold growth. It’s best to be smart about how much meat you purchase so you don’t end up getting rid of most of it due to mold.

5. Prevent Excess Condensation

Excess moisture can build up in your fridge, even though your refrigerator is designed to remove and control moisture. This usually happens when the fridge is frequently opened and closed, leading to warm air entering the fridge. Avoid doing this, especially in humid and hot weather.

Moisture might also be accumulating because of open food containers, moisture laden foods or a deteriorated gasket.

See Mold? Call RestoPros!

If you can’t seem to get rid of the mold accumulated in your fridge, it’s time to call RestoPros! We offer a variety of services such as mold testing, mold remediation and water damage restoration. Call us today at 855-587-3786 or fill out a service request form on our website! 

3 Keys to Preventing Mold from Forming on Food

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preventing mold from forming on food

Let’s set a scenario: Some unexpected guests are over and you’re rummaging through your fridge and pantry looking for something to eat. You find some fruit that you’re hoping will suffice but when you look closely you realize something grey is growing on it. Is that how the peach in your hand is supposed to look? No. Then what is that stuff?

And then it hits you. The fruit in your hand has succumbed to mold.  

If you’re horrified by this scenario, you’re in the right place because the professionals at RestoPros have some keys to preventing mold from forming on food.

Mold forming on your food can cause allergic reactions and respiratory problems. Some molds also produce toxic substances called mycotoxins that can make you sick. Left to grow, food mold can spread to other parts of the home and contaminate the air quality. So, learn how to stop mold where it starts with these easy tips.

Make Sure the Items You Buy Are Fresh

You can save yourself a lot of hassle by being a little more attentive when you’re buying your groceries. When you’re purchasing any non-packed items, like certain fruit, inspect them carefully. Make sure they are fresh, without any bruising and softness as these are signs of spoilage.

Some fruits such as raspberries and blackberries are in transparent packaging, so you can often check for food spoilage or mold. It only takes one moldy item to quickly contaminate the whole package, so it’s vital you do a quick scan before you purchase your food.

Clean Out Your Fridge Frequently

While most molds prefer humid, warm climates, mold can still grow in your refrigerator. Refrigerated food might decay and release moisture which can accumulate in your fridge. Some containers might also leak sauce and liquids, leading to the buildup of mold.

So, it’s important you clean out your fridge regularly and get rid of any items that have long expired or are already growing mold. When cleaning your fridge, try to use non-toxic cleaners to avoid any health hazards. You can either purchase these cleaners or go the DIY route. One of the most common DIY mold cleaning solutions can be made mixing baking soda or vinegar with water.

Store Items Correctly

By storing certain items in the right locations, you’ll be preventing mold from forming on food in addition to finding items easily! Here are some tips on where you should store your products:

  • Crisper bins in your refrigerator are for vegetables and fruits which need to be kept separately.
  • Top shelves have the most consistent temperature in the fridge so keep your dairy products, and ready-to-eat foods there. Bottom shelves have the coldest temperature, so store your meat and eggs in this part of the fridge.
  • Meat that isn’t going to be eaten for a few days should be kept in the freezer.
  • Keep bananas separated from other fruits and pull them apart to slow down the ripening process.
  • Canned goods like soup and tomato sauce that have already been opened should be emptied out into air-tight plastic containers and kept in the fridge.
  • Store your onions, potatoes and squash in a darker, cooler environment like your pantry.

By following these easy steps to prevent mold from forming on food, you’ll save money on groceries, improve food taste, and prevent the spread of mold throughout your home.

When to Call RestoPros for Mold Testing and Removal

Food mold isn’t anything to worry about if you dispose of it quickly and clean the surrounding area, but be aware that mold grows and spreads easily. Keep on the lookout for mold around your home, especially in the kitchen. If you notice any mold around your walls, floors, or ceiling, call RestoPros immediately for professional mold testing and remediation.

The professionals at RestoPros are happy to help you with any issues related to mold and provide services like mold remediation, mold testing and water damage restoration. To get in touch, call us at 855-587-3786 or schedule a service online!

Mold vs. Mildew: Spotting the Difference

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Exposure to dampness or mold is the estimated cause of a quarter of all asthma cases in the United States. Even for non-asthmatic homeowners, living with a mold or mildew problem can pose serious health threats. Answering the mold vs. mildew question starts with learning what to look for. The experts at RestoPros are here to share our advice on how to spot the difference.

Mold vs. Mildew: Similarities

  • Environments

-Both mold and mildew are types of fungi that flourish in moist, humid conditions with scarce light.

-Both mold and mildew grow when spores or seeds find their way into environments that are conducive to colony growth.

  •  Affected Hosts

-Neither mold nor mildew can grow on synthetic materials such as plastic and metal-based products.

  •  Odors and Physical Symptoms

-Both mold and mildew produce a similar musty odor.

-Both mold and mildew can cause similar physical symptoms to humans who are exposed.

Mold vs. Mildew: Differences

  • Appearance

-Mildew can be downy or powdery. Downy mildew starts as yellow spots that become brighter and then turn brown in color. Powdery mildew is whitish in color and slowly turns yellowish brown and then black.

-Mold is black, yellow, or green with a fuzzy or slimy texture. Severe mold growth looks like moss and can cause rot in its effected host.

  •  Growth Patterns

-Mildew is a type of mold that has flat growth patterns. Unlike mold, mildew remains on the surface of its host where is can be easily removed. Mildew is drawn to moisture and grows on damp surfaces like your kitchen, bathroom, and basement. You can find mildew growth in toilets, sinks, tubs, showers, and on bathroom walls.

-Mold is a fungus that grows in patches which penetrate beneath the surface of its host. Mold grows on living sources, including food, drywall, paper, and wood. Mold can often grow on your ceilings, window sills, and walls.

  • Effects on the Host

 –Mildew can harm the food or plants upon which it grows, but usually does not cause any lasting damage to other surfaces such as tile floors or bathroom mirrors.

 –Mold can damage entire structures because it penetrates beneath the surface of its host.

  • Effects on Exposed Humans

 –Mildew can cause similar allergic reactions to those caused by mold, such as coughing, sneezing, headache, sore throat, and respiratory problems. However, mildew is much easier to eliminate because it remains on the surface of its host.

 –Mold can pose a serious threat to your health. It can trigger sinus problems, sneezing, coughing, wheezing, sore throat, migraines, itching, rashes, fatigue, and even depression. Mold is difficult to remove because it penetrates below the surface of its host.

 

So, now you know some signs to look for when answering your mold vs. mildew question, but what should you do about your problem? Contact the experts at RestoPros for immediate mold testing and remediation today!

 

How to Keep Food from Spoiling

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Keep Food from Spoiling

Food spoilage: it happens to everyone, and it can be complete mood killer, especially if you were hoping to impress friends and family with your from-scratch guacamole. Few things are more frustrating than reaching for an item in your refrigerator only to find that it’s inedible. While it’s impossible to preserve foods indefinitely, there are measures you can take to help ensure your groceries maintain freshness. Follow these three essential tips on how to keep food from spoiling.

  1. Set your refrigerator to the correct temperature.

Do you remember the last time you checked the temperature in your refrigerator? If not, it’s a good idea to peek at its current setting to make sure it’s not too warm. After all, bacteria thrive in warm temperatures. We recommend a setting of 38 degrees Fahrenheit. Most refrigerators on the market today come equipped with a digital thermostat to allow for quick and easy adjusting. For older models that use a dial system, you can check the temperature with a meat thermometer. Follow this step-by-step guide from Do It Yourself on how to test the temperature.

  1. Store items in the right compartments.

Unfortunately, you can’t store your food just anywhere in the fridge and expect it to last as long as it should. Each storage bin in your refrigerator is there for a reason. Now’s a good time to take everything out, throw away what’s spoiled, and start fresh (pun intended!). Keep your food from spoiling with these storage tips:

  • Fruits and vegetables should go in the crisper bins. Place fruits in one and vegetables in the other. Separation is necessary because both require different humidity levels. Your vegetable drawer should have a higher humidity setting than the fruit drawer.
  • Raw meats, eggs and dairy products should go on the lower shelves because they are the coldest. Because raw meat contains bacteria that can spread, designate an area where only these are placed, and clean it regularly.
  • Store foods that don’t need to be cooked, like dips, leftovers, deli meats and drinks, on the upper shelves because these areas provide the most consistent temperatures.

  1. Know which items actually belong in the fridge.

Determining the best place in your kitchen to store produce and other perishable goods can be difficult. When in doubt, many people turn to their fridges because they think it can’t do any harm. Unfortunately, for some foods, the fridge actually speeds up the spoiling process. Not sure where exactly to store your groceries? We can help!

  • Keep tomatoes on the counter at room temperature, like you do bananas.
  • Onions, potatoes and squash prefer a darker, cooler environment with low moisture, like your pantry.
  • Avocados are the free spirits of produce. They can go either in the fridge or on the counter. If you’re not planning to use them for a few days, we recommend placing them in the fridge to slow down the ripening.
  • For peanut and other nut butters, it’s really up to you. If you go through a jar within a week, you can keep it in the pantry, but if it takes you a while to use it up, we recommend opting for the fridge.

If you’re tired of having to toss groceries week after week because they just won’t hold up, know that it doesn’t have to be that way. By following our simple tips on how to prevent spoiling, you will enjoy your food for longer periods, not to mention, you’ll save money on groceries too!

With more than 10 years of experience, consider RestoPros your go-to mold expert! For more information on our superior services, give us a call today at (855) 587–3786.