Overview
Molds are microscopic organisms found everywhere in the environment, indoors and outdoors. When present in large numbers, molds have the potential to cause adverse health effects. Mold growth is common after flooding events.
How to Recognize Mold
Sight—Usually appear as colored woolly mats.
Smell—Often produce a foul, musty, earthy smell.
Preventing Mold Growth
Remove excess moisture with a wet-dry vacuum and dry out the building as quickly as possible.
Use fans to assist in the drying process.
Clean wet materials and surfaces with detergent and water.
Discard all water-damaged materials.
Discard all porous materials that have been wet for more than 48 hours.
General Mold Cleanup Tips
Identify and correct moisture problem.
Make sure working area is well ventilated.
Discard mold-damaged materials in plastic bags.
Clean wet items and surfaces with detergent and water.
Disinfect cleaned surfaces with ¼ cup to 1½ cups of household bleach in 1 gallon of water.
CAUTION: Do not mix bleach with other cleaning products that contain ammonia.
Use respiratory protection. An N-95 respirator is highly recommended.
Use hand and eye protection.