Take Action Against Mold
– Children’s Environmental Health Promotion Program, 1390 Market St. #410, San Francisco
Mold causes allergies, makes asthma symptoms worse and triggers asthma episodes. Have mold problems? Call 311.
Prevent Mold by Avoiding Condensation
Condensation is when moisture in the air turns into liquid water on a cool surface. You should fix water leaks from outside and plumbing leaks inside and remove moisture formed by condensation. Here are some more tips:
- Throw away items that have been very wet for more than two days.
- Keep closets open as often as possible.
- Keep furniture at least 6 inches away from the wall so air can flow freely between the wall and furniture.
- Keep windows open for 5-15 minutes each day to release excess moisture.
- Maintain a humidity of 30-50% in your living space.
- Use the fan or open a window when showering.
- When cooking, always turn on the fan above the stove or open a window.
- Keep shower curtains dry by spreading out the curtain or wiping it dry with a clean cloth.
- Wipe moist windows with a dry cloth.
- Do not use a humidifier.
Action Plan to Clean Mold
- Spray soapy water on moldy surface.
- Scrub with a sponge or brush.
- Wipe the surface dry.
Tips for your mission:
- DO NOT use bleach! Bleach is corrosive and can burn the eyes and skin and cause asthma or make it worse.
- Take precautions when cleaning – Avoid breathing in mold or mold spores and use protective gear such as rubber gloves.
When to hire a professional
Hire a professional to remove mold that covers an area greater than 15 square feet.
- This surface most likely needs to be replaced.
- If you need help, call 311.
