Mold can aggravate existing allergies. Mold has been linked to respiratory tract infections and lung disease. Mold can cause coughing, wheezing and increased effects of asthma.
If you do not have a spray bottle handy, you can also use a disposable cloth. Thoroughly wet the cloth with vinegar and wipe the area of mold to soak it in vinegar.
Using a scrub brush will make it easier to break up the mold, as well as keeping your skin further removed from the vinegar while you are cleaning. Find a brush that is the appropriate size for the job. You may want a larger brush to cover more surface area, or a smaller brush to reach into cracks and corners.
Vinegar will likely leave an odor, which will fade within a few hours.
Only mix the vinegar with one of these products at a time. If it is still not working, try mixing it with another. Never mix vinegar with bleach. This creates dangerous, toxic fumes. If these combinations are not working, or you have a larger mold problem, you may need to hire a professional to remove the mold from your home.
This mask is not necessary for small projects and everyday cleaning.
Keep a spray bottle of vinegar in your shower and spray the surface every few days. Mop your floors with vinegar to prevent mold growth in damp areas.
Check your roof for leaks and replace the roof or fix an area which may be allowing the damp weather into your home. Fix any plumbing issues as soon as they happen to prevent water from dripping and spilling. Check the seals of your windows and replace any which are allowing dampness to get through.
The kitchen, bathroom, and laundry room should be equipped with ventilation systems.
Cut power to the air conditioner before you clean the drain pan. It is easiest to remove the water with a wet/dry vacuum to avoid spilling. Once you have removed the water, scrub away any debris or mold which may have formed in the pan before you return it.