Surprising places mold can be found

5/3/2019 (Permalink)

Mold may be growing on your mattress

It’s a well-known fact that mold grows in damp spots, typically in the kitchen, basement or bathroom. But below are some additional spots that may leave you cringing.

In your mattress.

Why it grows there – Mold grows in damp places, and though you might not like to think about it, your mattress can get damp. It can carry moisture from things like perspiration and spills, making it an ideal home for mold.

How to clean it – You can start by vacuuming both sides of the mattress, and then of course, cleaning out that vacuum to avoid the spread of mold spores. Then, mix together an equal ratio of rubbing alcohol and water, dip a cloth in the mixture, and scrub the mattress. After that, spray a disinfectant on the mattress, and sit it out to dry in the sunshine (a very important steps because, of course, getting rid of moisture is crucial). However, if you see the mold spread to the floors and walls of your bedroom as well, it’s best to call the experts!

On your dishes.

Your dishes, those things you serve the food you and your family eat on. While it may make you gag, it does make sense.

Why it grows there – When the dishes aren’t completely dry, but you start stacking them anyway, you set up a prime spot for mold to grow.

How to clean your dishes – To start, make sure your dishes are totally moisture-free before stacking and putting them away. If it’s too late for that step, simply run the dishes through a dishwasher (washing and sanitizing them), and wipe down your cupboards using a vinegar and water solution and a cloth. Again, if the mold has spread to your sink, counter or throughout your cabinet, it’s best to call the experts, SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont

On your toothbrush.

This could be the most important takeaway of them all mostly because you are potentially putting mold particles directly into your mouth.

Why it grows there – When toothbrushes don’t receive a proper chance to dry out between brushing, mold has the perfect opportunity to thrive.

How to clean it – Okay, forget cleaning mold off your toothbrush. Just go buy a new, definitely-mold-free one. And then use these tips to keep it that way.

1. First, buy a new one frequently. Even if it doesn’t look frayed, you should be replacing it at least every three months.
2. Second, use toothpaste with germ-fighting triclosan/copolymer.
3. Third, don’t share toothbrushes.
4. Fourth, close the lid to your toilet while flushing! You wouldn’t believe how far those germs can fly.
5. Lastly, don’t store your toothbrush in an airtight container. To avoid mold growth, it needs to be exposed to the open air.

No matter where you find mold growing in your home, you’ll need to clean it up and fix the moisture problem immediately. Otherwise, the mold will continue to grow and potentially damage any surface it calls home. If you have a mold issue, please call SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont (617) 864-7378 to assist you.