What is mold? How to prevent fungal spread and stay healthy.

Mold, mildew, yeast and mushrooms make up the kingdom fungi, a group of organisms essential in nature for breaking down dead plant and animal matter.

While mold plays a vital role outdoors, and has uses in human society when it comes to baking, fermentation and medicine, it can also become a health hazard when it grows indoors.

Where can we be exposed to mold?

Mold spores are commonly found in homes, but they need moisture to grow. According to the Oklahoma State Department of Health, mold can thrive on materials such as wood, carpet, ceiling tiles and insulation—particularly in areas with water damage or high humidity.

People can be exposed to mold through airborne spores, direct skin contact, or by consuming moldy food.

What are the dangers of mold?

Though most molds are not harmful to healthy individuals, those with allergies, asthma or compromised immune systems may experience symptoms such as rashes, eye irritation, nasal congestion and aggravated asthma.

Some molds produce mycotoxins, which can cause fatigue, nausea and respiratory issues if individuals are exposed in high concentrations. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should consult a healthcare provider.

What does mold look like?

Mold often appears as white, thread-like growths or black specks, especially in damp areas like bathrooms or basements. A musty smell is also a common indicator, however, mold can also grow unnoticed behind walls and under floors, where it can remain hidden and left to grow for months or even years.

Rooms that combine moisture and poor ventilation—such as kitchens, bathrooms and laundry rooms—are common hotspots. Leaky roofs, plumbing issues and condensation on exterior walls are common culprits behind mold infestations.

How can I stop mold growth?

To prevent mold, homeowners should:

1. Repair leaks and stop water intrusion
2. Improve ventilation and air circulation
3. Use exhaust fans in high-moisture rooms
4. Insulate attics and crawl spaces
5. Clean and dry water-damaged items within 24 to 48 hours
6. Vacuum and clean regularly

How do I clean mold?

Small areas of mold contamination, usually 10 square feet or less, can often be cleaned by homeowners. Larger infestations may require professional help.

For small cleanups, homeowners should take proper safety precautions to avoid becoming sick.

Wear gloves, goggles and a dust mask, and seal off the area and ventilate while cleaning.

When cleaning, bag any moldy materials and wipe hard surfaces with water or detergent and dry thoroughly

For larger areas:

1. Use OSHA-approved respirators
2. Move and clean furnishings in a separate space
3. HEPA vacuum thoroughly dried surfaces
4. Discard heavily mold-infested materials

Disinfectants such as bleach are not generally recommended, as dead mold can still cause allergic reactions. If biocides are used, the area must be well-ventilated, and label instructions should be strictly followed.

Bleach should never be mixed with ammonia-based cleaners due to the risk of toxic fumes.

Mold-related resources and additional information:

1. Oklahoma State Department of Health
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
3. University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center