Mold requires three things to survive: moisture, a food source and a temperature that is ideal for it to grow. For cleaners to effectively fight off mold, they must control these three factors.

Mold likes temperatures similar to those of building occupants: anywhere between 68 and 74 degrees. That said, changing the temperature in an effort to fight mold would not be ideal for building occupants that occupy the facility.

So, cleaners turn to the food source. Because mold can feed on the smallest of particles, such as dust, eliminating the food source will be difficult for cleaners. It could be minimized, but unlikely eliminated.

And that brings us to moisture. The best way to fend off mold within the facility is to identify areas of moisture and eliminate them. Cleaners should pay attention to unusual amounts of water or areas that are prone to moisture. Pay attention to areas of concern and eliminate the water source before there is any potential for mold.


posted on 12/21/2009