If you’ve ever noticed a reddish, slimy substance growing on your bathroom walls or in other damp areas of your home, you might be wondering what it is and if it’s dangerous. Is it some type of fungus or mold? More specifically, what is red mold?
Red mold is a type of fungus that can grow in damp, humid environments. It often appears as a slimy, reddish substance and can be found in bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and other areas with high moisture levels.
While that brief answer provides the basics, there’s more you should know about red mold. Keep reading to learn about the potential health risks associated with red mold, how to prevent it from growing in your home, and what to do if you discover it.
Is Red Mold Dangerous To Your Health?
While red mold itself is not toxic, it can cause allergic reactions in some people. Symptoms of a mold allergy include sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and skin irritation. In more severe cases, exposure to mold can lead to difficulty breathing and asthma attacks.
Additionally, the presence of red mold often indicates a moisture problem in your home, which can lead to other health issues. Excess moisture can attract dust mites, cockroaches, and other pests that can trigger allergies and asthma. It can also cause structural damage to your home over time.
How Can You Prevent Red Mold Growth In Your Home?
The key to preventing red mold growth is to control moisture levels in your home. Use exhaust fans in the bathroom and kitchen to remove excess humidity, and repair any leaks in your plumbing or roof. Make sure your home has proper ventilation, especially in the basement and attic.
You can also use a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the air. Keep indoor humidity levels below 50% to discourage mold growth. Regularly clean and dry damp areas, such as shower curtains and bathroom mats, to prevent mold from taking hold.
What Should You Do If You Find Red Mold In Your Home?
If you discover red mold in your home, it’s important to address the problem promptly. Small areas of mold can often be cleaned with a mixture of water and detergent. However, if the mold covers a large area or if you have a mold allergy, it’s best to call in a professional mold remediation service.
In addition to removing the mold, it’s crucial to address the underlying moisture problem to prevent the mold from returning. A professional can help you identify and fix sources of excess moisture in your home, such as leaky pipes or poor ventilation.
Can Red Mold Grow On Food?
While red mold is most commonly found in damp areas of the home, it can also grow on food. Mold thrives in warm, moist environments, so foods that are stored in humid conditions or that have been left out for too long are particularly susceptible to mold growth.
If you find red mold on your food, it’s best to discard the item immediately. Mold can penetrate deep into soft foods, so even if you remove the visible mold, there may still be hidden spores that can make you sick. Hard foods with mold growth, such as hard cheeses, can sometimes be salvaged by cutting away at least one inch around the moldy area.
Can Red Mold Affect Your Pets?
Just like humans, pets can be affected by mold exposure. Cats and dogs can experience allergic reactions to mold, with symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, and skin irritation. In severe cases, mold exposure can lead to respiratory infections or other health problems.
To protect your pets from red mold, keep them away from damp, moldy areas of your home. Regularly clean and disinfect pet bedding, toys, and food bowls to prevent mold growth. If you suspect your pet has been exposed to mold and is experiencing health problems, consult with your veterinarian right away.
Keeping Your Home Mold-Free
Now that you know what red mold is and the potential risks it poses, it’s time to take action to keep your home mold-free. Inspect your home regularly for signs of moisture and mold growth, especially in damp areas like the bathroom and basement. If you do find mold, address the problem promptly and take steps to prevent it from returning by controlling humidity levels and fixing any leaks.