Request An Estimate
Houston is known for its classic Tex-Mex cuisine, the Space Center, and off-the-charts humidity. Because of its proximity to the Gulf Coast of Texas, Houston’s humidity levels are some of the highest in the country. The constant moisture and warm climate can make outdoor activities brutal.
Mold, mildew, and other moisture-related contaminants our weather creates indoors can be just as rough. Houston’s humid climate’s cleaning challenges in our homes also include pollutants like pollen and other allergens. Here’s why we get so much mold, where to find it, and what to do about it.
How Does Houston’s Humidity Affect Mold Growth
Mold and its spores are present almost everywhere, inside and out. Because mold spreads on the ground and in the air, spores can enter your home through windows, the HVAC system, and small openings. Mold growth requires at least 55 percent humidity. The average relative humidity in Houston is over 90 percent in the morning and around 60 percent in the afternoon and evenings. The problem is evident—without a Houston humid weather cleaning approach, your home can be a haven for mold.
Where to Look for Mold and Mildew in Your Home
Mold is among the most elusive of Houston’s humid climate cleaning challenges. Indoor mold thrives in damp, moist areas, such as kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and even bedrooms. Mold can grow in carpets, ventilation ducts, beneath sinks, and any other damp environment. Knowing where to inspect for mold is one of the most impactful preventive measures for keeping your home safe.
Kitchen
Cooking, eating, and dishwashing produce moisture, making kitchens susceptible to bacteria and mold. Garbage disposals, cleaning sponges, caddies, and faucets are only a few things inviting germs and mold growth. Cleaning your kitchen often and minimizing moisture will give you a one-two punch against nasty germs and mold. Run the exhaust vent when cooking, and always dry surfaces after cleaning. Periodically check beneath the sink and around the faucet for leaks and signs of water damage.
Bathroom
Mold grows quickly in warm, damp spaces, which makes bathrooms a top Houston humid weather cleaning challenge. The constant moisture from showering, washing up, and using the toilet creates the ideal environment for mold and bacteria to thrive. Leaving the exhaust fan on after bathing, drying surfaces, and disinfecting are a few ways to enjoy a healthier bathroom. It’s also good to check for leaking pipes, running toilets, and loose caulk.
Windows
Closing your windows to keep humidity out could backfire and cause mold and mildew problems if your windows are damaged. When humidity is high, missing caulk, worn weather seals, and loose panes lead to condensation. The recurring moisture and warmth from the sun are irresistible to mold. Wiping the moisture off helps prevent mold from growing until you repair or replace your windows.
Basement
Basements are notorious for being damp, dark spaces that promote mold growth. If you notice musty smells, peeling paint, condensation, or water stains, mold won’t be far away. Plus, if the moisture problem isn’t addressed, mold can work its way into the rest of your home. Dehumidifiers and other appliances can help, but a permanent solution may require professional repair services.
How To Remove and Prevent Mold
Removing mold doesn’t require harsh chemicals or expensive specialty cleaners. You can eliminate mold with common household ingredients like baking soda and distilled white vinegar. Using natural ingredients to make a DIY eco-friendly mold remover is good for you and the environment—but bad for mold. We recommend wearing a face mask, gloves, and safety glasses and opening a window for ventilation. As promised, here’s how to prevent mold and create a healthier home.
Regular Dusting
Dust contains dirt, bacteria, pollen, dead skin cells, dust mite droppings, mold, and other allergens. When the indoor humidity is high, those disgusting contaminants cling to nearly every surface. Without regular dusting, those unhealthy ingredients create buildup that is unhealthy and hard to clean. The Maids® can help keep that from happening with proven dusting techniques from the pros.
HEPA Vacuums
The Maids relies on vacuums with HEPA filtration to capture and remove up to 99 percent of mold spores, pollen, bacteria, and other pollutants. And so can you. Using a HEPA vacuum weekly to vacuum surfaces, upholstery, drapes, carpets, and hard surface floors significantly reduces indoor pollutants. Use attachments like extensions and brushes to remove dust from ceiling fans, light fixtures, and the tops of doors and windows.
Dehumidifiers
Dehumidifiers effectively and conveniently reduce moisture in kitchens, bathrooms, and other humid areas. To get the most benefits, choosing the best appliance for your particular needs is essential. A unit’s capacity, noise level, and energy efficiency are a few criteria to consider. Dehumidifiers can cut humidity levels in half and improve the cooling efficiency of your HVAC.
Adequate Ventilation
Air conditioners, ceiling fans, and exhaust fans are critical for proper ventilation and humidity control. When your home has sufficient ventilation, odors, allergens, and mold spores are easier to eliminate. It’s also important to regularly replace your HVAC filters and keep your dryer’s vent clean and working properly.
Professional Cleaning Services in Houston
Maintaining a home in a humid area can be challenging, even with the best cleaning checklists and weekly cleaning. If your busy lifestyle leaves little time for creating a healthy and happy home, house cleaning services can help. Because The Maids cleans for health, we are uniquely qualified to tackle Houston’s humid climate cleaning challenges.
Why Choose Cleaning Services in Houston From The Maids?
The Maids is one of the only cleaning services in Houston that cleans for health. We rely on a proven 22-Step Cleaning Process to remove more dust, germs, and mold than traditional cleaning methods. Whether you live in West Houston, North Houston, or nearby, a Houston humid weather cleaning team is ready to roll. Discover how professional cleaning services in Houston can transform your home when you get your free custom cleaning quote today.
Request An Estimate
