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The Effects of Black Mold in a Kitchen

Molds are fungi that are typically found in the same place as moisture, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency. There are multiple potential sources of moisture in a kitchen that could result in mold growth. Leaky pipes, high humidity levels and cooking are just a few of these sources. Black mold can cause serious health problems for some individuals. Mold can easily be prevented by eliminating sources of moisture.

  1. Cause

    • Black mold in a kitchen is caused by the presence of too much moisture, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency. Boiling water is one potential cause of excessive moisture in a kitchen. Another potential source of moisture in a kitchen is a leaky roof above the kitchen. Moisture can easily seep through a roof if it has cracks. Leaky pipes under a kitchen sink are another common source of moisture in a kitchen.

    Effects

    • Mold can have some negative health effects, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency. Some of these negative health effects include allergic reactions, asthma, sneezing and other respiratory problems. Black mold in a kitchen can even trigger asthma episodes in asthmatics.

    Solution

    • The first step associated with eliminating mold from your kitchen is to identify the source of moisture that is causing the mold to grow. One of the best ways to prevent mold from growing in the first place is to dry wet areas within 24 to 48 hours of when they were in contact with excessive moisture. Ventilation in a kitchen will help reduce humidity levels that are often caused by cooking. Black mold can be cleaned off hard surfaces in your kitchen with water and detergent.

    Considerations

    • If you do not identify the source of moisture that's causing your mold to grow then mold will continue to grow back in your kitchen even if you remove it, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency. It's impossible to remove all mold spores from an indoor environment that means that the best way to control mold is to reduce moisture levels. The best humidity level for preventing mold growth is between 30 and 60 percent, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

    Warning

    • People that have asthma should strictly avoid coming into contact with mold, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

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