Mold Prevention
Mold has gotten a bad rap. Without mold we wouldn't have penicillin for bacterial infections, blue cheese dip for Buffalo wings, or composting for a greener campus. However, if you don't want mold in your room, please take note of a few simple yet important tips.
- Dry wet areas and surfaces immediately: If you spill something on any fabric surface, do not leave it to air dry. Blot the fabric with a towel and dry the surface immediately.
- Allow for Proper Ventilation: Allow your bathroom to breathe after you shower or bathe. Leave your shower curtain drawn to allow it to dry thoroughly. Leave the bathroom door open, open a window if there is one in the bathroom, and leave ventilation/ceiling fan on for at least 10 minutes.
- Improve Air Flow: When the air is stagnant, mold will grow. Try pulling your bed or bedding slightly away from the wall, open closets that may trap colder air than the current room temperature, and think about purchasing a fan to keep air circulating.
- Pick One - AC or Open Window: The warm air that comes in from your window mixed with the cool air produced by your AC makes moisture in your room. Pick one or the other but never do both.
If you do find mold in your room, what should you do? First and foremost, determine the location of the mold. If you find mold in your bathtub, shower, sink, or any other tiled surface, it is likely mildew; please take steps to clean it. One of the cheapest and most effective cleansers is bleach. You want to use one part bleach to 10 parts water or any bleach-based cleaning agent. Clorox wipes are very effective. If you find mold on your carpet or any painted surface, contact Work Control immediately.
Remember: Mold loves moist, dark places. Your bathroom door closed after a shower with no ventilation is a perfect breeding ground for new mold.