Allergy and Family Medicine

Albert H. Cobb, Jr., M.D.
F.A.A.O., F.A.A.O.A.

Adult and Pediatric Allergies

Loads of Information:
Latex Allergies and Food Cross-Reactivity
Treatment and Services:
What to expect when you visit the clinic
Medications to avoid before testing
Downloads
Authorize Request for Medical Records
Diet Diary
And More:
Site Map
Living with Mold

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.

Think like a mold: Where in YOUR
home would a mold like to live?

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.

Other food sources: Get rid of old wood, papers, leaves, and carpeting - especially if they have ever been wet. Wood, tile, or decorative concrete can be easier to maintain than carpet.

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