

Allergy and Family Medicine
Albert H. Cobb, Jr., M.D.
F.A.A.O., F.A.A.O.A.
Adult and Pediatric Allergies

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I made the point that mold is present everywhere in our environment. We cannot eliminate mold in our homes without burning them down. The minute we construct a building, mold sees it as a food source.
The biggest difference between molds and green plants and algae is that mold requires a substrate (something to grow on). Plants and algae contain chlorophyll and can use sunlight and water to produce their own food. The fact that mold requires a food source allows us to somewhat control its growth.
We cannot eliminate mold in our homes without burning them down.
But we know that mold requires
a food source - and that allows us to control its growth.

To identify the ideal environment for mold, look no further than a refrigerator. Can you recall some food covered in mold, hiding way in the back? A dried-up green-and-brown orange?
Keep the refrigerator clean and check the drip pan. The drip pan is ideal mold country. The condenser unit for your air conditioner and your duct work are also ideal for growing mold. If you miss cleaning your tub or shower for a few days, mold will cover the surfaces.
Are you getting the idea? Mold needs a food source, humidity, and darkness to get going.
Water leaks: Get them repaired and dried out as quickly as possible. Prevention of leaks is much cheaper in the long run. Look under your sinks for dampness. Look behind every appliance that uses water (water softener, dishwasher, washer and dryer, etc.). Clean your roof and gutters at least once a year.

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