Mold. Most of us have had to clean it up at some point. In fact, I recently dealt with a mold problem because of July#'s flooding and at the time I did not know what to use or where to start.

Fortunately, through research and a lot of questioning, I found an effective but safe way to clean mold.

Molds produce tiny spores which continually float through indoor and outdoor air.

When mold spores land on a damp area indoors, they may begin to grow and digest whatever they landed on.

Therefore, mold grows in moist warm areas like damp basements, closets, bathrooms, and even in odd places like refrigerator drip trays, house plants, humidifiers, garbage pails, mattresses or upholstered furniture.

The worst place that mold can grow is inside wall cavities and the flooring of a home.

If this occurs, then you may want to check for plumbing leaks and call a professional.

Since cool and moist environments are the most favorable conditions for mold, the key to preventing it is moisture control.

If an area has had water damage, make sure it is dry within 24-48 hours, otherwise mold growth will begin. If mold is present then clean up is necessary.

To begin the cleanup process you should make sure that the entire area is dry.

A fan or dehumidifier may be needed. If there are any wet items in the area, remove them and place them outside to dry. Absorbent materials like tiles and rugs should be replaced.

When the area is prepped you can begin cleaning. It is recommended to use a mild detergent mixed with water. This mixture can be used on all moldy surfaces.

Be sure to wear gloves that extend to the middle of your forearm (ordinary household cleaning gloves should do) and be sure to wear safety goggles that do not have ventilation holes.

This will prevent any mold or mold spores from getting on your hands or in your eyes.

Also, be sure to take your time and take breaks for fresh air. Over exposure to mold spores may cause you to feel sick.

Cleaning mold off of indoor surfaces is important. Be sure to clean all surfaces before painting or caulking. If cleaning is not done then paint will peel and caulking will not hold.

If mold has been a continual problem in your home try reducing indoor humidity to 30 to 60 perecent. Also try venting bathrooms, dryers, and other moisture-generating sources to the outside; using air conditioners and de-humidifiers; increasing ventilation; and using exhaust fans whenever cooking.

If you have any questions on the clean up of mold or would like a copy of #“Repairing Your Flooded Home,” published by FEMA and the American Red Cross, please call Cornell Cooperative Extension of Cayuga County at 255-1183.

Renee Jensen is a program

educator of Environmental Issues at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Cayuga County