Why Should I Worry About Molds, Dust Mites and Mildew?

Molds, mildew, fungi, bacteria and dust mites are biological pollutants. Mold grows on organic materials such as paper, textiles, grease, dirt and soap scum. Mold spores float throughout the house, forming new colonies where they land. Mold, mildew, fungi and bacteria are often found in areas of the home that have high humidity levels, such as bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms or basements. Dust mites thrive on dead human skin cells and in bedding, carpeting and upholstery. When these areas are disturbed during vacuuming, making beds or walking on carpet, the dust particles become airborne. The same is true of animal dander.

What are the health effects?

Biological pollutants can cause allergic reactions. Symptoms often include watery eyes, runny nose and sneezing, nasal congestion, itching, coughing, wheezing and difficulty breathing, headache, dizziness, and fatigue. Dust mites are one of the most important triggers for asthma attacks.

How can I guard against biological pollutants?

• Prevent mold growth by keeping basements, bathrooms and other rooms clean and dry. Use a disinfectant to clean surfaces that have mold on them. You may need to have a professional mold inspection done if you suspect mold is responsible for your family's symptoms.

• Humidifiers, dehumidifiers and air conditioning condensing units should be regularly cleaned with a disinfectant such as chlorine bleach.

• Keep humidity at acceptable levels (less than 50 percent), and make sure there's ample ventilation, particularly in areas where moisture builds up.

• If you are sensitive to dust mites, consider replacing carpeting with hard-surfaced flooring and use area rugs that can be removed and cleaned.

• Vacuums with high efficiency filters (HEPA) or central vacuum systems can help reduce the airborne dust generated by vacuuming.

• Freestanding HEPA filters placed in the living areas may help.

Related Articles Home Safe Home - Protecting Against Home Hazards Keeping Carpeting and Cabinetry Safe Asbestos in the Home Carbon Monoxide: the Odorless Killer On the Lookout for Lead What's the Worry With Radon? Where Are Pesticides Found? What Is Environmental Tobacco Smoke?

External Sources American Academy of Family Physicians National Jewish Medical and Research Center American Lung Association

This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.

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