View full sizeThis New Orleans home didn't flood during Hurricane Katrina, but water leaks caused extensive mold growth.This time of year, the Oregon State University Extension Service gets calls from people worried about mold they've found growing in their homes, in damp areas such as under the bathroom sink.
Mold -- which looks like a furry stain and can be black, brown or white -- can cause property damage and health problems, so preventing or treating it is important. But surfing the Internet can lead you to inaccurate or extreme information, according to Jeanne Brandt, an OSU Extension specialist for Washington County.
She says the Extension Service takes a "reasonable and accurate" approach, making it a reliable source for people with mold problems to consult.
Mold spores are always in the air, waiting to land on a damp surface and start to grow, so moisture control and ventilation are the keys to prevention:
- Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens
- Fix leaky pipes, windows and roofs
- Vent dryers to outdoors
- Use fans to circulate air in enclosed spaces
Simple measures such as leaving dirty shoes and boots outside and not leaving wet clothes or towels lying around can help, too.
When cleaning mold off surfaces, take care to protect yourself by wearing gloves and opening windows. Wash surfaces with a stiff brush and hot, soapy water, and dry it well. Then disinfect with a cup of liquid bleach per gallon of water, and again, dry the area well.
The
plus links to mold information at the federal Environmental Protection Agency and other trusted websites.
The Extension Service also occasionally coordinates mold-control workshops; contact
to find out when the next one will be held.
-- Homes & Gardens staff
If you want to automatically receive a daily homes and gardens tip, sign up at OregonLive.com's newsletters subscription site.