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Stachybotrys chartarum, also called black mold, sometimes referred to as toxic black mold, is a species of mold that produces mycotoxins has been linked to rare but serious health issues in people whose houses contain stachybotrys chartarum. This page will outline what you need to know about how to get rid of black mold.
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How to Get Rid of Black Mold on Clothes
Black mold is not only a problem in the home, it can also grow on your clothes. When washing clothes that have black mold, you need to get rid of both the stain and the smell. Using a stain remover on the mold, and presoaking the garment in a vinegar and water solution will help to make sure your clothes come out of the ash free of black mold stains and odors.
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Introduction
While all mold had affect your health, the species of black mold known as stachybotrys chartarum has been linked to serious health issues such as pulmonary hemorrhage or memory loss. While these cases are rare, caution should be taken if you suspect you have toxic black mold in your home. The best approach is to make sure that stachybotrys chartarum doesn't have an opportunity to take hold in your home. -
Step 1: Fix Your Moisture Issues
If you have mold in your house, it means you have a moisture problem. Whether you've had flood damage that has left lingering moisture under carpets, leaky pipes, or a poorly ventilated house, you need to take action to eliminate the moisture or you will never be able to get rid of the black mold.- Remove and replace any moldy insulation, wallboard, or carpet padding that may be harboring moisture.
- Keep the humidity level in your house under 50%, by using an air conditioner or a dehumidifier during humid months.
- Adequately ventilate the house, making sure there are externally vented exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathrooms.
- Don't use carpets in areas subject to moisture, such as bathrooms.
- Consider using mold inhibitors in paints.
Step 2: Get Rid of Black Mold
After you've disposed of wallboard, insulation, carpet padding, and other porous materials that were harboring mold, clean the area thoroughly with a week solution of chlorine bleach (10 parts watre to one part bleach). Make down areas where mold is visible, as well as surrounding areas that may be harboring spores which haven't started to grow yet. Dry the areas thoroughly after cleaning.Step 3: When to Call for Professional Help
If you suspect that the mold may be causing health issues for either you or your children, contact your physician for advice. Most mold remediation can be done by the home owner, but if you feel that either the amount of mold itself is overwhelming, or there is a large amount of structural work to be done removing wallboard and other building materials, you may want to engage a professional who is experienced in mold remediation.
