Tag: Mold Prevention

The Hidden Horrors of Mold

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the hidden horrors of mold

As Halloween approaches, many of you are probably thinking about picking out your costumes, decorating your homes, and throwing the best Halloween party of the century. However, before you go deeper down the Halloween rabbit hole, take a minute to check for the real, hidden horrors in your house. Your home can face many hidden issues and problems, one of them being mold. Mold is a type of fungus that can easily sneak its way into your home. With enough nutrients and moisture, it can start growing and become an even bigger problem when ignored. However, to help you tackle mold before it becomes a monster, the team at RestoPros is here to tell you about some of the hidden horrors of mold.

1. It Can Grow on Many Surfaces

Mold can grow on many materials and surfaces. Primarily, it grows on more porous surfaces that have been exposed to moisture. Places such as roofs, windows and pipes that are prone to leakage or flooding can show signs of mold growth. In addition, you can find mold on:

  • Cardboard
  • Wood products
  • Paper products
  • Ceiling tiles
  • Insulation
  • Drywall
  • Carpet
  • Fabric
  • Upholstery

When an item or area of your home is exposed to excess moisture, it takes between 24-48 hours for mold to start growing. Therefore, it is important you try to prevent additional mold problems by getting rid of products that can’t be dried or cleaned.

2. You Can’t Paint Over It

If you see any mold growth in a part of your home, painting over it or applying caulk over it is not going to do anything. In fact, paint on top of mold is most likely to peel off and the mold will continue to grow, causing even more frustration. If you’re planning on a painting project, it is best to contact a professional to inspect your home for mold, so you don’t make the mistake of applying paint over mold.

3. It Can Grow in The Unlikeliest of Places

As we mentioned before, mold can grow on a variety of places and surfaces. While mold is most commonly known to grow in places with high moisture content such as bathrooms and kitchens, it can grow in some of these unexpected places as well:

  • Filing Cabinets

If your home is particularly humid, mold can find its way in filing cabinets as well because the pulp in paper makes for great food for mold.

  • Front Loading Washing Machines

The seals on the doors of washing machines usually remain wet. With some lint and moisture, mold can make its way into your washing machine as well

  • Chimneys

Often the crevices in the chimney bricks allow for water, dirt and organic debris to collect in the chimney, creating the perfect atmosphere for mold growth.

4. It Can Cause Health Problems

Mold exposure can lead to health problems, especially in people who are susceptible to allergies, have weaker immune systems or have asthma.

21 percent of the current asthma cases in the United States can be attributed to mold growth and dampness in the home. Inhaling mold spores can often worsen asthma symptoms, lead to coughing, wheezing and irritation of the eyes, nose and throat. In addition, mold can also cause sinus infections and another condition called mold-induced hypersensitivity pneumonitis.

Fight the Mold Monster with RestoPros!

Now that you know a little more about the hidden horrors of mold, it’s time you get ready to fight it wherever you see it. While you might be inclined to take on this task alone, it is best to get the help of a professional. For mold testing, removal and remediation services, get in touch with none other than RestoPros! Call us today at 855-587-3786 or schedule an appointment online!

Common Misconceptions About Mold

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common misconceptions about mold

There is a lot of information about mold, its health effects and how you can prevent it – all across the internet. However, since it is the internet, some myths and misconceptions can sneak their way in. Having the right sources and knowledge is integral to becoming a well-informed homeowner. With the right information, you can tackle mold growth safely and confidently. So, to help you figure out which sources and articles can be trusted, the team at RestoPros has developed a list of common misconceptions about mold! 

1. Black Mold is Deadly

Black mold has somehow gained a reputation as the deadliest of all mold species. We believe that reputation is a little overhyped. Here are some important facts about black mold that aren’t sensationalized:

  • Black mold isn’t a specific type or species of mold. The term black mold is often used to describe molds that produce mycotoxins, which are naturally occurring toxins. One of the species known for producing mycotoxins are Stachybotrys charatarum or Stachybotrys atra—this species, which is greenish-black in color, is often referred to as black mold.
  • It is not rare, but it is not as common as other mold species such as Penicillium, Aspergillus and Alternaria.
  • The health effects of black mold are dependent on the individual. Adults and children who have weaker immune systems, frequent allergies, and asthma might react to mold exposure and mold spore inhalation.
  • Black mold can be prevented just like any other mold species: By avoiding excess moisture and by maintaining cleanliness. 

2. You Can DIY Mold Removal

There are several unreliable sources that say you can test and remove mold all by yourself and ultimately save money. While you might be inclined to go on this route, take a moment to reconsider. Mold testing kits aren’t always reliable and there are many states have laws about mold removal. These regulations often require that mold related activities such as assessment and remediation be handled by a licensed professional. In addition, mold often starts growing in porous areas (such as drywall) and it can be hard to remove mold on your own from porous materials. Because of these reasons, it is best to leave mold removal to the experts.

3. Mold is Rare

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, mold is very common in homes and buildings—it can be found in indoor environments if it has the right moisture content and nutrients. So, while you might think mold could never grow in your home, think again. Mold spores are in great quantity all around us and there isn’t anything particularly wrong with that. The problem is when they settle in a specific area in our home and start to grow.

4. No Odor, No Mold

Sure, mold might have a distinct musty smell, but just because you don’t smell any odor doesn’t mean you don’t have a mold problem. While an odor is a sign of mold, it isn’t the only sign of mold. The best way to know whether you have mold or not is to have an inspection done. Experts can perform professional mold testing and discover whether you have a significant mold problem or not.

Contact RestoPros For Mold Removal Services

We hope this list of common misconceptions about mold has been helpful. If you suspect you have a mold problem, get in touch with the experts at RestoPros! We offer services such as water damage restoration, mold testing, removal and remediation! Call us today at 855-587-3786 or schedule a service online!

How to Prevent Garage Mold

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how to prevent garage mold

With enough moisture and proper nutrients, mold can pretty much grow anywhere. In fact, mold spores can survive harsh and dry conditions as well. With the right environment, mold can settle in any place in your home, including the garage. A lot of homeowners don’t often pay much attention to their garages, but it’s an important place to keep clean and inspect for any signs of decay, mold or mildew. We at RestoPros understand that mold growth in your garage can be a great inconvenience for you. That is why we’re going to tell you a little bit about how you can prevent garage mold in order to avoid any long-term consequences.

1. Remove Standing Water

Sometimes water can collect in your garage because of rainy or snowy weather or because of water dripping from the bottom of your car. Whenever you see puddles of water in your garage, remove them by using a squeegee and pushing the liquid into the driveway. You can do this easily as driveways are slanted downwards and will allow you to push away the water from your garage floor. Clean up any leftover moisture using a paper towel or a mop. Make sure you don’t leave behind any excess water and moisture.

2. Don’t Use Cardboard Containers

While many homeowners think it wise to make use of any leftover cardboard containers to store garage supplies, it’s best you use plastic containers. The moment cardboard is exposed to water, it absorbs the moisture very quickly. Because it is porous material, like a sponge, it will remain damp and soggy for a long period. Not only will the cardboard become fragile and lose it’s sturdiness, it will also create the perfect environment for mold growth.

Clear plastic containers and boxes will be sturdier and won’t be susceptible to mold. You can purchase these containers from any home improvement store. If you want to continue using cardboard boxes, make sure they are not directly placed on the garage floor. Instead, keep them on a shelf to prevent contact with moisture.

3. Seal Up Your Garage Door

If your garage is not properly sealed up, there is a chance of water seeping into your garage and forming puddles all over your floor. You can probably squeegee it away but there are only so many times you can do that before you get tired. Consider sealing up your garage door from the bottom. You have many options such as a panel weatherstripping and garage door weatherstripping. You can purchase seals and weatherstripping from any home improvement store near you.

4. Use a Dehumidifier

If you read our blog, you know that one of the best ways to maintain humidity in any part of your home is by using a dehumidifier. This trusty appliance comes in different sizes—for your garage, go for a smaller option. Make sure the humidity is set between 30 to 50 percent as that is the ideal setting to prevent mold growth.

Prevent Garage Mold with RestoPros

We hope this guide on how to prevent garage mold is helpful and informative. If you are worried your home might be affect by mold, get in touch with the experts at RestoPros. We provide the DFW area with mold testing, mold remediation and water damage restoration services. Call us today at 855-587-3786 or schedule an appointment online!

Can Mold Show Up in My Car?

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can mold show up in my car

If you are a regular reader of this blog, then you know that mold can be found in all sorts of places. Sinks, showers, washing machines, refrigerators, even filing cabinets. However, you might not have heard of mold showing up in your car. Mold is a fungus that needs moisture to grow and spread. If it comes across the ideal damp and humid environment, it will end up growing there, even if it is in less common mold-growth area such as your car. So, to answer the question, “can mold show up in my car?”— yes, it can! Keep reading to learn the RestoPros experts’ list of reasons for car mold and easy ways to prevent it!

Reasons for Mold Growth in Your Car

  • Groceries that you put in your car, whether in the backseat or trunk, might tip over and spill. The same could occur with liquids such as coffee or juices. If ignored or cleaned haphazardly, mold can grow in the interior of your car. 
  • If you leave your car window open and it happens to rain, water might soak the interior of your car, leading to moisture build up and eventually, mold growth.
  • Your car’s AC is a place where mold can grow. Your car’s AC sucks in warm and humid outdoor heat and absorbs the moisture and heat from it to produce cool air. This can lead to moisture accumulating in your AC, specifically it’s evaporator core. If the core comes across pollen, mold spores and debris, it can become the perfect place for mold growth.

How to Tell If Your Car Has a Mold Problem

The most obvious sign of mold growth in your car is bad odors and musty smells coming from the interior of your car. Also, if you turn your AC on and you are greeted with a new and awful smell, you might have to get your car inspected for mold growth as your AC might be dealing with a mold problem.

How to Prevent Mold Growth in Your Car

While mold growth in your car is frustrating to deal with, it is also easily preventable. Here are some effective car mold prevention tips:

  • Frequently Clean Your Car

Take some time every weekend to declutter your car. Then every month or so, vacuum the interior, upholstery and carpets in your car, to ensure mold spores, pollen and other allergens and toxins have not found their way into your car. In addition, change your car’s cabin air filter to prevent a clogged, malfunctioning car AC system.

  • Prevent Excess Moisture

One way to do this is by frequently avoiding eating and drinking in your car. If you happen to spill something such as juice, coffee or any kind of food, be sure to clean and dry the area properly to avoid moisture build up.

If you are predicting a particularly humid environment caused by heavy rain or storms, sprinkle some baking soda on the carpet of your car. The baking soda will soak up the moisture from your carpet in addition to removing odors.

  • Routine Maintenance

Just like any machine or appliance in your home, your car needs routine maintenance and inspections as well. Whether you are frequently inspecting your car yourself or getting it inspected by a professional, you will save yourself from roadside inconveniences in the long run as well as ensure your car’s value is up.

Prevent Mold with RestoPros!

If you have any questions about preventing and/or removing mold anywhere in your home, from the most common places to the most unusual places, the experts at RestoPros will be sure to provide answers. Get in touch with us by calling 855-587-3786 or by filling out a service request form on our website!

Protect Your Kids From Mold This Baby Safety Month

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The team at RestoPros understands the importance of keeping our children safe, secure and happy at all times. As mold remediation experts, we understand the potential health effects mold growth can have on babies and young children. To mark the beginning of this National Baby Safety Month, we’re going to tell you a little bit about how you can protect your kids from mold!

Health Effects of Mold on Children

Before we tell you how you can protect your kids from mold, we suggest you read up a little bit about how mold can negatively impact the health of children.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the Institute of Medicine found “limited or suggestive evidence” that exposure to damp indoor environments can lead to shortness of breath and other respiratory illness in generally healthy children. In addition, there could potentially be a link between early mold exposure to development of asthma in some children, especially those who are prone to asthma developments.

If your child already has asthma, mold spores they inhale can cause airways and lungs to constrict, leading to shortness of breath, wheezing and coughing. While there is still some research to be done on the link between adverse health problems and mold, there is no harm in taking the right precautions to keep your children safe from mold.

Get Rid of Indoor Dampness

The most common reason behind why mold continues to infest homes is excessive dampness and moisture. Mold is a fungus that primarily grows in moist and damp environments. Therefore, the best way to prevent respiratory reactions to mold, is to eliminate its ideal environment for growth. Here are some ways you can get rid of indoor moisture and dampness to protect your kids from mold.

  • Don’t Leave Damp Items Around

Mold can start to spread between 24-48 hours in excessively damp areas. Keep items dry to prevent mold. When you’re done using a towel after the shower, don’t throw it on the floor or in the hamper. Instead, hang it up to dry. Or put it in the washer to wash immediately. If you have older children, you can train them to do this too.

  • Check for Leaks

Inspect your bathtub, bathroom and kitchen sinks, and toilet to ensure there aren’t any leaks. You could have leaks because of deteriorated caulking, which can lead to mold.

  •  Have Proper Ventilation

Properly ventilate areas where there is potential for moisture such as your laundry room, bathroom and kitchen.

  • Wipe Everything Down

Whenever you’re done using your sink or shower, any splashed water can collect in corners and lead to the ideal moisture content for mold. Take a minute to squeegee your bathroom walls or use a paper towel to wipe down the sides of your sink. This is a great cleanliness lesson to teach your kids as well!

Use a Dehumidifier

A dehumidifier is a great appliance to have, especially if you live in a humid climate. Dehumidifiers give you greater control of the humidity and moisture in your home. The ideal humidity for your home should be between 30 and 50 percent. Dehumidifiers come in many sizes and you can choose one that fits your needs and budget. In addition, they can prevent allergens that are active in humid environments. Read our ultimate guide to dehumidifiers to learn more about these convenient appliances.

Educate Your Kids About Mold

It’s never to early to start educating our children about the wonders of science (and the horrors of mold). To educate your kids about fungus and mold, there are many science experiments you can do that can increase your children’s observation skills and help them develop a love for science. In addition, these experiments can be great boredom busters.

Avoid Areas with High Mold Counts

If your child has asthma or is relatively prone to respiratory illnesses, it is best to try to avoid areas where there are high mold counts. Higher counts of mold spores can be found in places where there are compost piles, cut grass and wooded areas.

Protect Your Kids from Mold with RestoPros

We hope this list of ways to protect your kids from mold is a helpful and informative start to National Baby Safety Month. If you would like to learn more about mold prevention and removal, get in touch with the experts at RestoPros. We provide services such as mold testing, mold remediation and water damage restoration. Call us today at 855-587-3786 or schedule an appointment online!

5 Facts You Should Know About Mold

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facts you should know about mold

The term “mold” might have been thrown around your home a few times. But most likely, if you have never directly dealt with it, you may not know that much about it. Where and how does it grow? What does it look like? Does it have any adverse health effects? The team at RestoPros has answers to all these questions with this helpful list of essential facts you should know about mold!

1. It Can Have an Effect on Your Health

Can mold have adverse health effects? The answer is; it depends. If you or someone in your family is susceptible to allergies or has asthma, chances are prolonged exposure to actively growing mold can have a negative impact on your health.

21 percent of the current asthma cases in the United States can be attributed to dampness and mold spores in the home. If you have asthma, mold exposure could possibly worsen it. Inhaling these spores can produce more mucus and even cause the lungs to constrict. This can lead to wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath.  To prevent mold spores from triggering your asthma, you will have to limit your exposure to mold by maintaining the humidity in your home and ensuring proper ventilation.

Similarly, inhaling allergens like mold spores can also lead to sinusitis or sinus infections and another condition called mold-induced hypersensitivity pneumonitis. In order to prevent these reactions, it’s important to do saline rinses to keep sinuses clean, thoroughly clean out ventilation systems and to stay hydrated.

2. You Can Find Mold Anywhere

This might sound a little confusing, so we will clarify. Yes, mold is everywhere as mold spores are always present in our outdoor and indoor environments. Even if you show allergy symptoms to mold, a small mold count is not a problem. It IS a problem, when there is excessive moisture build up and mold begins to actively grow because of this. Therefore, it is important that moisture and humidity is well-controlled to prevent mold from starting to infest your home.

3. You Can Prevent Mold by Controlling Moisture

This is one of the most important facts you should know about mold. As we mentioned before, while mold is a problem, it can be controlled and prevented. The best way to prevent mold is by controlling the moisture and humidity in your home. Here are some ways you can do this:

  • Use a dehumidifier and maintain your home’s humidity between 30 and 50 percent.
  • Use exhaust fans
  • Your AC plays a big role in maintaining the humidity of your home as well. Make sure its air filter is clean and free of dirt and debris. 
  • Don’t let moisture linger after you’re done using the shower. Take a minute to squeegee the walls of your bathroom to remove moisture
  • Make sure your home is leak-free
  • Wipe around your kitchen and bathroom sinks when you’re done using them

4. Let the Pros Handle Mold Removal

If you think you might have actively growing mold in your home, your first thought might be to save some money and handle it yourself using a store-bought mold test kit. However, that’s not a good idea as mold test kits aren’t always reliable. By handling mold removal yourself, especially if it’s a considerably affected area, you will probably do more harm than good. In addition, there are regulations that require that you must be licensed to perform mold-related activities such as assessment and remediation. It is best to contact a professional who has the right knowledge and experience to safely deduce the mold problem in your home.

5. You Cannot Paint Over Mold

Painting or caulking over mold is not the solution to removing or preventing mold. The mold will continue to grow under the paint and the paint will simply peel. It’s best to remove the mold before you do any painting.

RestoPros: DFW’s Mold Removal Experts!

Now that you’re aware of these facts you will be better prepared to prevent a mold infestation. If you think you have a mold problem, get in touch with the experts at RestoPros. Our trustworthy and experienced team of professionals performs water damage restoration, mold testing and mold remediation in the Dallas-Forth Worth area. Call us today at 855-587-3786 or fill out a service request form on our website!

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! 

4 Tips to Protect Your Dorm from Mold

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College season is here and it’s time for college students to move back into their dorms and apartments. The new school year brings many experiences and opportunities with it; new classes, new organizations to join, a higher workload and if you’re not careful, mold. The issue of mold growing in dorms is more prevalent than you might think. In the past year, there have been reports of colleges dealing with mold in residential buildings. In these situations, students often end up having to evacuate their dorms and temporarily live somewhere else. This can cause stress to students already dealing with a myriad of other problems.  However, there’s no need to worry because the team at RestoPros have some easy tips to protect your dorm or university apartment from mold.  

1. Don’t Let Food Spoil

If you’re a college student, chances are you have probably overestimated how many fruits you will eat during the week or how much salad you will eat for lunch. This often leads to spoiled or moldy food taking up space in your fridge.

When grocery shopping, don’t overestimate how much food you will eat. Be smart about how much food you will consume during the week by planning out your meals. If you buy food in bulk, chances are you might end up with spoiled food, which can be a waste of your money.

Prevent food from spoiling by storing items in the fridge correctly because different areas of the fridge have different humidity or temperature settings. In addition, take a few minutes every weekend to do a quick scan of your fridge, kitchen or dorm for any spills or spoiling food. If you notice any, dispose of it by placing it in a garbage bag and throwing it in a regular trash container. Clean the surrounding area by using some wipes or some diluted vinegar.

2. Don’t Leave Damp Items Around

Mold requires moisture and humidity to grow. In excessively damp areas, mold starts to spread between 24-48 hours. Keep items dry to prevent the ideal environment for mold growth. When you’re done using your towels after a shower, don’t throw them in the hamper or the floor. Hang them to dry for a few hours before storing them appropriately.

The same goes for damp bathroom mats or clothing—make sure to wash and clean these items and dry them properly.

3. Consider a Dehumidifier for Your Dorm

In addition to bringing the basics such as food, clothes and books, many college students bring items and appliances that make their college life more comfortable. Consider bringing a small, portable dehumidifier for your dorm this fall, especially if your college is in a humid climate. A dehumidifier can be a great investment if you live in an environment that is prone to mold and mildew – or if you’re susceptible to indoor allergens that are present in humid environments.

4. Report Any Leaks

As a college student, the last thing you want to even think about is a leak in your bathroom, AC or in your roof. However, it’s important to report these leaks and get them looked at as soon as you notice them, because the problems they cause can be even greater. If you’re in a dorm, your college most likely has maintenance staff for on-campus housing who can fix the leaks.  If you’re in a university apartment, you might have to get in touch with your property manager or with the apartment’s offices.

Worried About Finding Mold in Your Dorm? Call us Today!

Finding mold in your dorm can be especially frustrating for a busy, stressed college student. RestoPros is here to ease your frustration—we offer a variety of services such as mold remediation, mold testing and water damage restoration. Get in touch with our experts today by calling 855-587-3786 or by scheduling a service on our website!

Bathroom Mold Prevention Tips

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bathroom mold prevention tips

It is a well-known fact that mold tends to grow in environments with high moisture levels. One of the areas in your home that fits this description is the bathroom. With water hitting almost every surface of the restroom, it’s no surprise that mold can find its way in there. Mold is not only a nuisance to remove, it can cause health problems, especially for people who are sensitive to mold. Don’t worry though, because the experts at RestoPros are here with some bathroom mold prevention tips, so you can fight mold before it sneaks up on you.

1. Make Use of Your Exhaust Fan

Not only is the exhaust fan in your bathroom good for drawing out unpleasant odors, it’s also great for reducing humidity! By using your exhaust fan, you will be able to control the moisture that collects on your mirror, counter, sink and shower. It’s important to have a well-functioning exhaust fan in your bathroom as a reduction in humidity can prevent not only mold but peeling paint and wallpaper. Leave the exhaust fan on for up to 30 minutes after each shower.

2. Squeegee Your Bathroom Walls

After every shower, be sure to use a squeegee to remove the moisture from your bathroom walls. It might seem like an inconvenience, especially when you’re in a hurry. However, it’s a better option than a towel, as the rubber blade of a squeegee allows you to wipe your bathroom walls faster and reduces 3/4ths of the moisture that could lead to mold growth.

3. Keep Your Bathroom Clean and Dry

Obviously, it’s important you keep your bathroom clean and dry—not just to prevent mold but simply because no one wants a dirty bathroom. Here are some ways you can ensure a clean, moisture-free bathroom:

  • Wipe down the sink and faucet after every use. The same goes for your shower nozzle and bath faucet.
  • If your bathroom floor is wet, don’t wait for it to dry or for your bathmat to absorb the moisture. Use a towel to wipe it up.
  • Fix any clogs in your sink and bathtub. When water takes a long time to drain away, the excess moisture left behind can provide the perfect environment for mold to find a home.
  • Try to wash and dry your bathmats every 3-4 weeks. If it has a non-skid rubber backing, let it hang dry as the rubber backing can’t handle the dryer.
  • After using your towel, a couple of times, wash it in hot water and ensure it’s totally dry before storing it. Avoid dumping a used, damp towel in the hamper or on the floor as it provides ideal conditions for mold growth.
  • If you have tiles, waterproof them by sealing the grout lines annually with grout sealer.

4. Fix Any Leaks

Moisture can grow in your bathroom from consistent leaks as well. If you notice your faucet dripping, water collecting around the seal of your toilet, or the ceiling leaking, contact a professional right away.

Pro tip: Often a lot of bathroom leaks can be attributed to a deteriorated caulk or grout which can lead to mold entering your bathroom. Luckily, you can DIY applying new caulk around your sink, tub and toilet to prevent future leaks.

5. Use Mold Resistant Bathroom Materials

This is one of the more long-term mold prevention tips. With the creation of mold and mildew resistant materials, you can protect your bathroom from mold with little effort! Here are some mold resistant materials you should consider for your bathroom:

  • Mold resistant paint is ideal for a high moisture environment such as your bathroom. Keep in mind though, it should only be applied after mold in the area has been removed.
  • Mold resistant shower curtain liners range from $8 to $18 in price and are effective in preventing mold growth.
  • Several stores also offer a variety of mold resistant bathmats to ensure your bathroom is truly mold free. These mats can range from $10 to $40, depending on the brand.

See Any Mold? Contact RestoPros!

Keep your bathroom safe from a mold infestation by following these bathroom mold prevention tips. If you need a professional for services such as mold remediation, water damage restoration and mold testing, look no further than RestoPros! Our experts will ensure your home is mold-free. Get in touch today by calling 855-587-3786 or schedule a service online.

How to Prevent Mold After Flooding

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A flood damaged home can be a massive source of anxiety for homeowners and renters who face this problem due to hurricanes, heavy rain or burst pipes. A flood damaged home comes with a myriad of other issues such as figuring out the cleanup process, repairing any damage, filing a flood insurance claim,  and finding a temporary place to stay if necessary. On top of that, you might end up dealing with a mold infestation that could potentially further damage your home.

Mold is a fungus that is primarily attracted to damp areas so it’s no surprise it shows up in places where there is a leakage or water damage. However, the team at RestoPros has some tips on how to prevent mold after a flooding so you don’t have to deal with another unnecessary and expensive problem.

Preventative Measures to Take Against Mold

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, it can take 24 hours for mold to start growing after being exposed to water. So, you will have to act fast. Here are some quick preventative measures you can take to avoid mold after flooding:

  • You will need to dry up the wet areas as soon as possible. Open windows and doors to air out the rooms in your house and use fans if possible. Consider using dehumidifiers to regulate the humidity in your home. Dehumidifiers are appliances that can remove excess humidity from your home and can be helpful in keeping your home dry, especially after flooding.
  • Mold can especially grow on items that are absorbent and porous. Get rid of items such as upholstered furniture, plush pillows and curtains if they have been wet for more than 24 hours. However, if you think they can be thoroughly cleaned and dried, put them in a place where they can dry out.
  • You’ll probably have to get rid of your carpet if it’s been dampened by dirty water for more than 24 hours. However, if you can’t get rid of it immediately, use a wet vac to remove the water from the surface of the carpet.
  • Clean wet surfaces such as kitchen counters, metal objects, shelves and closets with disinfectant.
  • Consider these natural mold cleaning products you can make with just a few ingredients in your home!
  • You might have to cut some openings in the bases of your walls to let air in. Before you do that, remove any baseboards or moldings as they can prevent the lower portion of your wall from drying out well. If you notice a lot of damage to your drywall, it might be better to let a professional handle it.

Some Other Things to Keep in Mind

In addition to knowing how to prevent mold after flooding, we also want you to keep these things in mind to ensure your recovery process is safe:  

  • If you have flood insurance, contact your insurance company. Remember to let them know if you need an insurance adjuster to visit your home before the cleaning begins. Be sure to document everything so you can show your insurer the extent of the damage!
  • Be careful when it comes to dealing with water damaged electrical appliances. Don’t step into a flooded basement if you think any outlets or cords have been exposed to the water. Remember not to touch any electrical appliance with wet hands or while standing in water.
  • Wear protective gear like gloves and rubber boots to avoid contact with chemicals and contaminated water.
  • Remember to keep yourself clean by washing your hands with soap and clean running water.

Need Professional Help? Contact RestoPros!

While you’re armed with the knowledge to prevent mold after flooding, keep in mind that you might need the help of professionals to ensure a safe process of cleaning and repair. You don’t have to handle these problems on your own — the experts at RestoPros are here to help. Our knowledgeable pros are experienced in mold remediation, mold testing and water damage restoration. Call us today at 855-587-3786 or fill out a service request form on our website!