Mold development in your house is more than just an unsightly look. It poses a health risk to your family, particularly those who are sensitive to it. Mold exposure symptoms range from minor irritations to significant respiratory and other health issues, so learning how to avoid moldy equipment is essential.
Mold thrives in moist environments and can develop in the smallest crevices of your home’s essential appliances. It is attracted to moisture and can develop without your knowledge inside your refrigerator, dishwasher, or washing machine.
While cleaning the machines that clean other objects in your house may seem paradoxical, frequent examination and thorough cleaning of such equipment can prevent the spread of harmful mold spores.
1. Dishwashers
Dishwashers fill up with warm water whenever we run a cycle. Damp food is commonly left behind from previous cycles and can get stuck in the filters, utensil baskets, interior panels, or other nooks and crannies. Keep an eye out for puddles or flooring damage in front of the dishwasher. Common leaks occur where the water enters the dishwasher at the base of the machine. Because the water leaks can be small or only occur during the discharge cycle, they can go unnoticed for quite some time if you’re not looking for them.
Tip: Clear your dishwasher of excess food particles left behind after every wash cycle and allow it to air out from time to time by leaving the front door open. Run an empty cycle monthly with a special dishwasher cleaner, vinegar, or lemon juice to give the appliance a thorough flush out and remove hard water and soap deposits. If your dishwasher has a “self-cleaning” or sanitizing option, this can help keep the inside clean, but Don’t forget to clean the seals of the door occasionally with a household cleaner.
2. Washing Machine
Washing machines fill up with water during the wash cycle and can overflow if the door is left cracked and if the washer is placed near a refrigerator or other water sources in the home. In addition to leaks, mold growth can be found where the rubber seals of the washing machine meet with the floor and walls of the surrounding cabinets. Don’t forget to occasionally clean the door’s seals on occasion with a household cleaner.
Tip: Never leave a washing machine door open. If you do, the water will eventually evaporate and leave the machine empty, which can cause clothes, mold, or moldy clothes to be damaged. Run an empty cycle every one or two months with a special washing machine cleaner, vinegar, or lemon juice to give the appliance a thorough flush out and remove soap and hard water deposits.
3. Refrigerator
Refrigerators can fill up with water during the defrost cycle, so make sure to examine your interior and check the unit’s base. Mold growth can be found where the rubber seals of the refrigerator meet with the floor and walls of the surrounding cabinets. Don’t forget to clean the seals of the door on occasion with a household cleaner.
Tip: Never leave a refrigerator door open. If you do, the water will eventually evaporate and leave the machine empty, which can cause food to spoil and moldy food and moldy odors to develop. Run an empty cycle every one or two months with a special refrigerator cleaner, vinegar, or lemon juice to give the appliance a thorough flush out and remove soap deposits.
In addition to frequent cleaning and inspection of the major appliances in your home, take a few minutes each day to wipe up any spills or areas where water is collecting. Be sure to find the source of leaks and replace any drain hoses that are cracked or damaged.
Conclusion
Mold is nothing to fear, it is just a natural part of the environment. We have been living with mold for thousands of years. It is only recently that we have had the technology to be able to control it. With the new science of biocides, we are able to control the mold and decide how many molds we want around us.
Environmental Mold is a leading full-service mold and indoor air quality consulting firm specializing in indoor air quality inspections / consulting services and professional mold removal since its inception in 2001. We provide commercial and residential mold remediation solutions, property evaluations, and repair cost estimates, interpreting third-party protocols while managing remediation projects from start to finish. Reach out to us today at 949-333-3998 to schedule a service!