Mould Allergy & Avoidance

...What are moulds?

...Where are moulds found?

...How can I avoid moulds?

...- indoors

...- outdoors

These are microscopic fungal organisms that grow as filamentous networks on organic material, leading to its decomposition. These filaments grow and can eventually be seen as furry growth of mould or mildew.

Organic matter is broken down by enzymes from moulds to make nutrients for the organism. This is why moulds are damaging to items such as fabric, paper and leather.

To reproduce, moulds produce spores, which become airborne and settle on other plant or animal organic material and grow into new colonies. The number of mould spores can be much higher than for pollens and they are capable of travelling over long distances. It is proteins from secreting mould filaments and possibly the spores themselves that probably cause allergic reactions amongst asthma patients.       

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They can be found anywhere where it is warm, dark and damp, both indoors and outdoors. As moulds get their food from decaying material, they do not require light for energy like other plants but they do need moisture.

Peak growth times for outdoor moulds are during times of high humidity, growing on grass, tree bark, fallen leaves and decaying vegetation, only being absent when snow is on the ground.

Indoors they live only in areas of high humidity, such as refrigerators, cellars, poorly ventilated bathrooms, damp attics and sheds

1. do not spend time in damp attics, cellars or sheds.

2. keep all bathroom surfaces clean and use diluted bleach to remove visible mould growth.

3. do not use carpets in bathrooms or cellars; use washable rugs.

4. clean inside your refrigerator regularly.

5. remove old foam pillows and mattresses.

6. do not store clothes or shoes in damp cupboards.

7. do not wait until food goes mouldy before disposing of it.

8. keep humidity below 50% with a de-humidifier and allow moisture to escape from the home by airing rooms as weather permits. Keep kitchens and bathrooms well ventilated and vent tumble driers outside.

9. re-pot plants outside the house, avoid live Christmas trees and store firewood outside.. 

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1. do not spend time in buildings where hay or grain is stored.

2. avoid greenhouses, summer houses, antique shops and musty hotel rooms.

3. avoid cutting grass, raking leaves and turning compost heaps.

4. avoid walking near fields during grain harvesting.

5. keep well away from piles of rotting leaves and wood. 

Clinical name Aspergiuus fumigartus is found in houses, basements, bedding and house dust

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