5 Places in Your Home with Mold You Forgot to Check

Mold. We all HATE it.

If you see it, more than likely you’re going to do something about it. Why? Because you’re a good homeowner, that’s why!

Unfortunately, mold doesn’t always grow out in the open. It can sometimes hide in small, moist places and it’s up to you to find where it’s hiding.

Start with these hiding spots because there’s a strong chance you’ll have some mold growth in one of these places.

1) Inside of Children’s Toys

Playing with toys while in the tub is something all children do when they’re young. However, many of these toys don’t dry completely once the tub is drained.

For example, the most played with toy in the tub is a rubber ducky. Even though this is an iconic bathtub toy, water can still get inside of its “waterproof” plastic exterior. Many rubber ducks (and other bathtub toys) contain mold on the side when they’re finally opened up.

• Mold Prevention Method: Avoid using toys in the bathtub, but if you must — dry them completely when they’re done being used.

2) Behind Wallpaper/Drywall

Do you ever notice moisture on the walls of your bathroom after you step out of the shower?

This moisture doesn’t always get the chance to dry, especially when showers are taken throughout the day. This moisture can get behind the wallpaper and even drywall.

Over time, mold can begin to grow and the worst part is, you’ll never know until you tear down the wallpaper or drywall.

• Mold Prevention Method: Turn the bathroom exhaust fan on before you turn the shower on and leave it on until 10 minutes after the shower is finished.

3) Seals of Appliances

Open up the door to your refrigerator, washing machine, or dishwasher. Inspect the seal on the door of the appliance. Here is where mold can grow after many uses of the appliance.

An important piece of maintenance for your appliances should be to clean them every so often. This includes wiping down the doors’ seals (also known as gaskets).

• Mold Prevention Method: Leave the door open when not in use so any water or moisture can dry. For the refrigerator, do not do this, but clean the seal every month.

4) On the Surface of Ductwork

Homeowners with forced air HVAC systems will have ductwork running through their house. These metal surfaces will come in contact with cool air during the summer when it’s warm out. This can lead to condensation forming on the metal surfaces, which will then result in mold growth.

The unfortunate part of this is that the air you breathe in is passing by this mold growth. This can make any person sick or aggravate their asthma or breathing conditions.

• Mold Prevention Method: Have your air ducts professionally cleaned every few years to remove mold growth, excessive dust buildup, and to check for air leaks.

5) Behind the Water Heater

Having a water heater tank in your home means you have an increased chance of developing a mold problem. These large tanks can be prone to leaking and the discovery of these leaks aren’t likely unless you’re inspecting the tank thoroughly on a regular basis.

The drains associated with this appliance can become clogged, which can stop water from draining properly, which can then result in leftover water residue or pooling of the water.

After 48 hours, mold will be circling your water heater tank.

• Mold Prevention Method: Avoid the routine inspections by opting for a more leak-proof tankless water heater model. Not only are there fewer chances of leaks, but they’ll help save you money on your energy bills.

When you have mold growing because of a plumbing issue, don’t hesitate — just pick up the phone and call us right away!