As homeowners, we try our best to keep our home clean, free of contaminants and free of mould. But sometimes, mould takes hold in the places we least expect it.

Under Your Sinks

It’s no surprise that we’d find mould in the rooms in our home with the highest moisture levels — but did you know there might be mould hiding under your sink? Next time you clean your bathroom or kitchen, check under your sink for any signs of mould. Even if you don’t see any, it’s a good idea to wipe these areas down with bleach or hydrogen peroxide to keep mould spores from spreading to other areas of your home.

In Filing Cabinets

Your home office is probably the last place you’d expect to find mould, but filing cabinets offer a surprisingly hospitable environment for mould spores. Paper is organic and makes great food for mould. High humidity levels in your home can encourage mould to grow in areas like filing cabinets, so make sure you’re keeping these areas moisture-free.

Carpets and Upholstery

Carpets, upholstery and curtains can easily trap dust, dirt and skin cells, but did you know these provide food for mould spores? If you experience a plumbing leak or a large spill in these areas, it’s easy to develop a mould problem. Clean up spills or leaks right away, and be sure to wash your upholstery, carpet and curtains with mould-inhibiting cleaning products.

Plumbing & Ductwork

How often do you check your home’s plumbing and ductwork? Unless there’s an obvious issue, most of us don’t check these items regularly, but plumbing and ductwork can be exposed to high levels of moisture that can lead to mould. Running a dehumidifier to reduce your home’s humidity levels is a great way to prevent mould from forming on your plumbing and ductwork.

Around Water Heaters

Your water heater is equipped with a drain to remove excess moisture and condensation, but sometimes these drains can become clogged or rusty and lead to mould growth on the walls, floor and air around a malfunctioning water heater. Make sure your water heater is working properly, and be sure to clean the area around your water heater if it has previously been broken — even if you can’t see any visible signs of mould.

Having good ventilation and a whole-home humidity solution can help reduce the risk of mould taking hold in your home. Learn more about air purifiers and filtration for your home from Bryan’s Fuel in Orangeville.