Kitchen Cabinets Mold

Have you noticed mold lurking in your kitchen, probably hiding in the cabinets? Molds are not only unattractive, but can also affect your respiratory system.

Mold is a common type of fungus consisting of small organisms found in many places. Mold tends to thrive in dark and moist areas and reproduces through tiny, lightweight spores transmitted through the air. Thus, you are exposed to mold daily, which means it could be in your kitchen cabinets for some time before you can discover it.

In small amounts, the mold is rendered harmless, but it can be harmful when it forms on a damp area. As the mold grows, the spores are released into the air and can be easily inhaled. And that’s why you might experience allergic reactions such as runny nose, coughing, wheezing, and nose bleeding when exposed to it if you are sensitive to mold.

The kitchen cabinets are the perfect mold victims especially if they are damp and there is little ventilation. This is because these conditions allow the growth of mold. However, everything kept in there might be exposed to the harmful fungi so you need to clean all of the cookware in your cabinets as well as throw away any foods stored in there.

Removing mold entirely can be tenacious. Although you can remove visible mold by yourself, there might be hidden mold that requires our professional help to completely get rid of it. Mold removal process involves:

• Step 1: Testing
It is required when there are signs of moisture in your kitchen cabinet, but no visual signs of mold growth. It can also be done in case of slightly visible growth to determine the magnitude of growth.

• Step 2: Sealing the Infested Spots
This means that the cabinet that has mold is sealed off from other parts of your kitchen to ensure that the mold removal process doesn’t spread spores to other areas of the kitchen as well as the entire home.

• Step 3: Identification and Replacement
We will identify the cause and fix the issue to prevent potential return of the mold if there is a source of moisture. We might also remove and replace the cabinets for thorough cleaning.

• Step 4: Removal and Cleaning
This is the step where remediation begins. We will use disinfectants and cleaning solutions specifically designed to remove and kill the mold. Although the cabinets may retain mold spots, they can be repainted.

It is nearly impossible to completely get rid of mold, but since mold spores need moisture to grow and spread, reducing moisture is the perfect way to manage growth of mold in your homestead. Below is some expert advice for reducing moisture in your kitchen cabinets:

• Create a Mold Resistant Kitchen
Use exhaust fans to force moisture outside when cleaning, washing dishes and cooking; turn off some appliances in case you notice moisture on surfaces; and check for leakages.

• Pay Attention to Humidity Levels
The best way to deal with high humidity levels is opening your windows regularly. You will not only lower the humidity levels, but also allow fresh air to take over the foul air from the mold.

During winter, you can leave one window open or open all for several minutes. While during summer, you can use dehumidifiers when humidity levels are high. You can also use mold-resistant paint on the cabinets.

• Turn on the Kitchen Vent When Cooking
Boiling water and cooking produces steam, which may lead to high humidity levels that create perfect conditions for mold growth. That’s why we recommend turning on the vent when cooking to ensure the odor and steam goes out.

• Occasionally Check for Leakages
Mold loves moisture. So keep in mind that water leakages and flooding favor growth of mold.

• Clean the Cabinets and Food Storage Areas
When washing dishes, keep an eye on your kitchen cabinets before you put back the dishes to ensure there is no mold. Place all the stored dishes aside and wipe and dry everything including the cabinets and dispose anything that looks moldy.

If you spot any black circles during your regular kitchen mold check, please contact us. With Twin Home Experts, we will examine whether it’s mold and properly treat it to prevent it potentialy returning.