Where there is moisture, there is mold, a problem that can make you sick and even prevent you from selling your house. Mold spores are present everywhere, growing on foods, plants and even foods. These microscopic organisms produce spores, which act like seeds. Each spore can produce mold growth, needing only sufficient moisture.

To prevent dangerous mold growth, you must prevent moisture buildup. Leaky plumbing, bad drainage, wet crawl spaces and damp basements are all likely suspects. But, there are less obvious causes of mold growth, too, such as steamy bathrooms, wet carpets, even wet clothes drying in a home. That humidifier you use in the winter could become a serious source of mold.

Indications of a moisture problem may include discoloration of the ceiling or walls, warping of the floor, or condensation on the walls or windows.

Allergic responses can come from exposure to dead as well as to living mold spores. Therefore, killing mold with bleach and or other disinfectants may not prevent allergic responses.

How to clean it up

1. You must find the source of the moisture fix or repair the issue.

2. Put on long sleeve shirt, long pants, cover your head and use a mask while cleaning.

3. Remove the mold with a bucket of soap and water, a solution of one cup household bleach in one gallon of water, or a commercial mold removal products and a rag. Rinse the cleaned area with water. Ventilate with a fan and open windows so it dries. It may take up to 48 hours to dry completely.