A Mold Professional is waiting for your call, not an answering service
Servicing Toronto & the surrounding GTA

Bedroom Mold – Causes, Risk, Removal & Prevention [Guide]

moldy-room bedroom mold

Bedroom Mold – Causes, Risk, Removal & Prevention [Guide]

Last Updated on May 28, 2024

I’m surprised at the number of calls we’re getting for bedroom mold in June & July. Typically, most of these calls are about surface mold growing on paint and dust, often found behind a mattress, dresser, or side table that hasn’t been moved for some time.

Usually, these bedroom mold issues arise in the spring after a cold winter. Recently, I visited a home where tenants had just moved out, and mold had severely damaged the bedroom walls.

Mold can grow almost anywhere in the house. It usually grows in moist areas such as the kitchen or the bathroom. However, a lot of people do not realize that it could grow in bedrooms as well.

Mold can cause a lot of health issues among the members of the household. Some of the most common issues include sinus congestion, eye irritation, and various respiratory problems.

Thus, it is important to make sure that there is no mold in your bedroom.

Causes of Mold Growth in Bedrooms

Bedroom Mold - Causes, Its Health Impact & Prevention Tips

  1. Failing to Use Bathroom Fans: Not using bathroom fans long enough (at least 30 minutes after a shower) can lead to increased humidity levels.
  2. Lack of Wall Insulation: Poor insulation can result in condensation and mold growth.
  3. Dust and Debris: Accumulated dust and debris in corners or behind furniture provide a breeding ground for mold.
  4. High Household Temperatures: Warm temperatures can encourage mold growth.
  5. Cooking Without Exhaust Fan: Not using an exhaust fan while cooking increases indoor humidity.

Health Risks Associated with Bedroom Mold

Exposure to bedroom mold can lead to various health issues. Here are some potential risks:

  • Respiratory Problems: Mold spores can cause respiratory issues such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. (Source: CDC)
  • Allergic Reactions: Exposure to mold can trigger allergic reactions, including sneezing, runny nose, and skin rashes. (Source: Mayo Clinic)
  • Asthma Exacerbation: Mold exposure can worsen asthma symptoms in sensitive individuals. (Source: EPA)
  • Infections: In rare cases, mold can cause infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. (Source: World Health Organization)
  • Toxic Effects: Some molds produce mycotoxins that can lead to severe health effects like neurological symptoms and fatigue. (Source: National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences)

For more detailed information, visit the CDC and EPA websites.

Ways To Prevent The Growth Of Mold In Your Bedroom

Ways To Prevent The Growth Of Mold In Your Bedroom

Mold can grow almost anywhere in the house. It usually grows in moist areas such as the kitchen or the bathroom. However, a lot of people do not realize that it could grow in bedrooms as well. Mold can cause a lot of health issues among the members of the household. Some of the most common issues include sinus congestion, eye irritation, and various respiratory problems. Thus, it is important to make sure that there is no mold in your bedroom. Here are some tips on how to prevent mold as well as mildew from growing within your room:

  • Use Bathroom and Kitchen Fans: Run fans for at least 30 minutes after showering or cooking.
  • Improve Insulation: Ensure walls are properly insulated to prevent condensation.
  • Regular Cleaning: Clean and dust regularly, especially in hidden areas.
  • Control Indoor Humidity: Keep indoor humidity levels below 45%.
  • Proper Ventilation: Ensure good air circulation by moving furniture and using dehumidifiers.

Use a de-humidifier

The best thing to do to make sure that mold and mildew do not grow in your bedroom is to consider using a de-humidifier. It is a machine that controls the humidity in your room. It could be costly but it is a very great investment. It is advisable especially for those who are suffering from respiratory problems and are sensitive to air quality. Also, de-humidifiers could maintain the quality of your books, furniture, and other stuff which could get damaged by high humidity.

Increase the air ventilation

If mold and mildew have grown inside your bedroom before, there is a very huge chance that your room needs more ventilation. You have to make sure that air is circulating well within your home so that mold and mildew will not grow. Open the doors and windows from time to time and let the fresh outdoor breeze enter your room. You might also want to use electric fans as well as exhaust fans because they help with air circulation.

Keep windows and doors shut when the AC is on

Condensation inside your bedroom should definitely be avoided because it could really cause the growth of molds. One of the major causes of condensation is simply letting the doors or windows open while the air conditioner is on. When you use your AC, make sure the openings are closed. By doing so, you would also be able to save energy.

See also  Understanding Mold Allergies and Its Solutions

Never keep up damp fabrics

Coming home from the gym or even after a morning jog, you might end up having some sweaty clothes. It would be a great idea not to keep these damp fabrics in your home in order to prevent the growth of mildew. Throw them in the laundry basket and have them laundered as soon as possible. The same should be done for wet bath towels and handkerchiefs. Everything in your room has to be kept dry.

Bedroom Mold Removal DIY Tips

6379728773_bda372a0ce

For small amounts of mold, wash the area with soap and water and repaint with mold and mildew-resistant paint. Ensure the paint has at least a 5-year warranty against mold and mildew growth.

When to Call a Professional to get rid of mold in bedroom?

For larger mold infestations, it’s best to call a mold inspector to recommend a safe removal process and preventive maintenance ideas. It’s better to be safe and avoid potential health risks.

It is always a good idea to consider hiring mold inspection services. The Mold Guy offers all the qualities you expect from a good Toronto mold removal company. We could conduct inspections in your home to make sure that mold is not growing in it. And if there are molds in your home, we could remove them for you. We also offer asbestos testing as well as indoor air quality testing. We are definitely a company that you could trust.

Conclusion – Mold In Bedroom

Remember, “Control the Moisture, Control the Mold.” For more information or professional mold removal services in Mississauga, contact us to ensure a mold-free and healthy home.

Bedromm Mold Removal – FAQs

  1. What are the first signs of mold in a bedroom?
    • “Common signs include a musty odor, visible mold spots, and increased humidity. Pay attention to health symptoms like allergies or respiratory issues that worsen in the bedroom.”
  2. How can I prevent mold growth behind furniture?
    • “Ensure good air circulation, regularly move and clean behind furniture, and maintain indoor humidity levels below 45%.”
  3. What are the long-term health effects of mold exposure?
    • “Chronic exposure can lead to persistent respiratory problems, allergies, and in severe cases, neurological issues or infections.”
  4. Can household cleaners effectively remove mold?
    • “For small mold patches, household cleaners like soap and water or vinegar can be effective. However, larger infestations require professional remediation.”
  5. How often should I check for mold in my bedroom?
    • “Regularly inspect your bedroom, especially during humid months, and after any water damage incidents. Checking every few months helps catch mold early.”