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Early Detection: Spotting Mold and Mildew Before They Grow
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Published in House and Home on Tuesday, December 2nd 2025 at 6:07 GMT by washingtonpost.com- 🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication
- 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Cleaning Mold and Mildew: A Practical Guide from The Washington Post (December 2025)
Mold and mildew are more than just a cosmetic nuisance—they’re a health risk and a structural threat that can quietly undermine the integrity of a home. In a comprehensive, step‑by‑step article published on December 2, 2025, The Washington Post explains how to spot the early signs of fungal growth, the science behind why mold thrives, and a variety of DIY remedies that are safe, effective, and, when necessary, cost‑efficient. The piece also links to key resources—such as EPA guidelines and CDC health advisories—to give readers a full picture of both prevention and remediation.
1. Recognizing Mold and Mildew Early
The article opens by emphasizing that early detection is the best defense. Mold appears as black, green, or white patches; mildew shows as a lighter, powdery film. Common hotspots include bathrooms, basements, attics, and any area with high humidity or water intrusion. The Washington Post stresses that mold spores are airborne; if you notice a musty smell or a visible growth, inspect for hidden moisture sources—cracked pipes, leaking roof seams, or poor ventilation.
The writers point out a useful visual cue: mildew often develops on porous surfaces such as drywall, carpeting, and wood. Mold, on the other hand, can grow on non‑porous items like plastic or glass. A handy “mold‑check” routine involves looking for color changes, a sticky feel, or dampness that persists after a rainstorm.
2. Why Mold Spreads: A Quick Science Primer
A side‑bars section summarizes the biology of mold. The Washington Post notes that mold reproduces via spores that can travel great distances, attaching themselves to any surface where moisture and warmth are present. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines—linked directly in the article—the ideal mold‑growth temperature is between 70°F and 100°F, and mold can proliferate when relative humidity exceeds 60 %.
The article explains how building materials can become “mold‑friendly” when moisture is trapped in walls or behind insulation. This sets the stage for the practical advice that follows.
3. The DIY Toolbox: Cleaning Mold at Home
a. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
The piece opens the remediation section by reminding readers that mold spores can trigger allergic reactions or respiratory irritation. It recommends a mask (N95 or higher), goggles, and gloves before touching moldy areas. For larger infestations, the Washington Post advises wearing a respirator and removing any contaminated clothing.
b. Fix the Moisture Problem First
Before cleaning, the article urges homeowners to eliminate the source of moisture—repair leaks, improve drainage, and install dehumidifiers or exhaust fans where necessary. It references the EPA’s “Managing Indoor Humidity” guide (link provided) that details best practices for maintaining indoor humidity below 60 %.
c. Cleaning Agents and Methods
The article’s core is a step‑by‑step list of cleaning agents, from household staples to industrial‑grade solutions:
| Agent | How to Use | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vinegar | Spray undiluted white vinegar, let sit 10‑15 min, scrub, rinse. | Non‑toxic, inexpensive, kills 82 % of mold species. | Can leave a vinegar odor; may not be effective on heavily saturated material. |
| Baking Soda | Mix 1 cup baking soda with water, apply with a spray bottle or sponge, scrub, rinse. | Neutral pH, deodorizes, inexpensive. | Not a fungicide; best used for surface decontamination. |
| Hydrogen Peroxide (3 %) | Spray 3 % solution, let sit 10 min, scrub, rinse. | Antimicrobial, breaks down mold’s cell walls. | Can discolor some fabrics or wood finishes. |
| Bleach (Sodium Hypochlorite) | Dilute 1 part bleach to 10 parts water; apply to surface, let sit 10 min, rinse thoroughly. | Broad‑spectrum antimicrobial; highly effective on non‑porous surfaces. | Generates toxic fumes; harmful to lungs if inhaled; can damage wood or paint. |
| Commercial Mold Removers | Follow label instructions. | Designed for heavy mold loads; may contain additional surfactants. | Costly; may contain harsh chemicals. |
The Washington Post underscores that the same cleaning method may not work for all materials. For porous substrates (carpet, drywall), removal and replacement may be necessary because mold can penetrate below the surface.
d. The “Three‑Step” Process
The article proposes a simple routine:
- Dry the area with a fan or dehumidifier until the surface is 80 % dry.
- Apply the cleaning solution (see table above) and let it sit for the recommended time.
- Rinse and dry thoroughly. Use a HEPA vacuum on carpets to remove remaining spores.
The writers caution that if a surface cannot be thoroughly dried or is visibly damaged, it should be discarded.
e. Handling Wood and Fiberglass
A special note addresses porous materials like wood or fiberglass. The article recommends a “scoring” technique—scratching a shallow groove around the mold patch, treating with a cleaning agent, and then removing the damaged portion. For large wooden beams, the Washington Post suggests sealing the surface afterward with a mildew‑resistant paint or wood preservative, which it links to a manufacturer’s data sheet.
4. When Professional Help Is Needed
While the article affirms that most “small” mold jobs can be handled DIY, it stresses the importance of calling a professional in the following situations:
- Mold covers more than 10 square feet (a single sheet of paper).
- Mold appears on HVAC ducts, insulation, or structural beams.
- The homeowner has respiratory problems, asthma, or immunodeficiency.
- Water damage is extensive (e.g., flooding).
The Washington Post provides a directory link to the EPA’s “Mold Remediation Resources” page, which lists certified contractors and state‑specific licensing requirements.
5. Prevention: The Long‑Term Strategy
The article concludes with a prevention section that reiterates key points:
- Control indoor humidity: use dehumidifiers, keep exhaust fans running, and ventilate damp areas.
- Fix leaks promptly: check roofs, pipes, windows, and foundations.
- Regular inspections: especially after heavy rains or floods.
- Seal and paint: mildew‑resistant paints for bathrooms and basements.
- Use proper ventilation: e.g., exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms.
The Washington Post also links to the CDC’s “Indoor Mold and Health” page, which advises regular monitoring and the importance of addressing mold as soon as it appears to prevent long‑term health issues.
6. Bottom Line
The Washington Post’s guide is a practical, science‑backed roadmap for tackling mold and mildew. By emphasizing early detection, moisture control, safe cleaning practices, and when to seek professional assistance, it equips homeowners with both the knowledge and the tools to keep mold from turning a home into a health hazard. The article’s thoroughness—combined with actionable links to EPA and CDC resources—makes it a go‑to reference for anyone dealing with indoor fungal growth.
Read the Full washingtonpost.com Article at:
[ https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2025/12/02/how-to-clean-mold-mildew/ ]
