June is National Healthy Home Month
Small Changes to Prevent Mold at Home
National Healthy Home Month highlights how minor actions can make a big difference in maintaining a healthier living space each June. While indoor air quality and home safety take center stage, mold prevention is often overlooked. Mold may seem like a cosmetic issue, but it can become a persistent health hazard for many households. Fortunately, simple, proactive steps can reduce the risk before mold becomes a costly and complex remediation job.
Moisture: The Root of Mold Growth
Mold needs moisture to grow from high humidity, condensation, or a slow leak behind the walls. Homes with poor ventilation or drainage issues are particularly vulnerable. According to IICRC S520 guidelines, mold remediation professionals first identify and eliminate the water source. Homeowners can take action early by running exhaust fans during and after showers, fixing leaks promptly, and keeping indoor humidity under 50%.
Even a minor plumbing drip under the sink can introduce the kind of damp conditions that mold spores love. If left untreated, these areas often require HEPA filtration, containment, and negative air pressure to clean safely.
Keep an Eye on Common Trouble Spots
Basements, attics, crawl spaces, and behind drywall are all known mold hotspots. The reason? These areas are poorly ventilated, and problems often go unnoticed for weeks or months. Insulating cold surfaces like pipes can reduce condensation. Installing a dehumidifier in basements or crawlspaces can keep moisture under control. For added protection, homeowners should check sump pumps regularly and ensure gutters drain away from the foundation.
Certified Water Restoration Technicians (WRT) and Mold Remediation Specialists (AMRT) trained under IICRC standards know the signs of hidden growth and how to address it safely. However, the best outcome is always to avoid the problem in the first place.
Improve Airflow and Filtration
Good airflow keeps damp air moving and helps prevent stagnation, which supports mold growth. Furniture should be placed a few inches from walls to allow circulation, especially in corners. Air filters with high MERV ratings, changed regularly, can also help reduce mold spores circulating in the HVAC system.
Professional remediation crews use HEPA-filtered air scrubbers and vacuums because typical filters and store-bought purifiers don't capture particles small enough to remove airborne mold spores. But even at home, upgrading to a better filter and changing it often makes a difference.
Building Habits for a Healthier Home
Small, consistent efforts like wiping down the shower daily, using moisture-absorbing materials in closets, and checking behind appliances for leaks can prevent mold from gaining a foothold. When remodeling or renovating, choose mold-resistant drywall and paints for areas prone to dampness.
Healthy Home Month is an excellent reminder that maintaining a mold-free environment isn't about one big fix but regular maintenance and smart habits year-round.
If mold does become a concern, AdvantaClean is equipped to handle it. Our certified technicians follow industry standards, using specialized tools and containment strategies to restore your home. For help with mold, indoor air quality, or moisture control, call AdvantaClean at (877) 800-2382.