Mold Resources

Investing in air filtration is one of the best ways to eliminate mold spores in air. These machines work to remove particles so that they’re not circulating throughout your home and making their way into your lungs. 

Why Filtration Matters

Mold spores range from 1 micron to 40 microns in size, making them invisible to the naked eye and difficult to remove from indoor air. If not properly filtered, these spores can recirculate, leading to persistent indoor air quality issues. To effectively eliminate mold spores in the air, selecting the right air purifier is essential.

Pay Attention to These Specs

The key is to choose a machine that will actually eliminate particles like mold spores. These are some key features to consider when looking for a purifier. 

1. High-Efficiency Filtration

• Ensure the air purifier meets at least HEPA standards, which capture 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns.

• Look for models that filter particles smaller than 0.3 microns to remove mold-related toxins like mycotoxins.
• Intellipure purifiers are a great option, as they filter 99.99% of particles down to 0.007 microns.

2. Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR)

• A higher CADR rating means better efficiency at removing airborne pollutants.

• Choose a purifier with a CADR that suits your indoor space to maximize effectiveness.

3. Continuous and Effective Operation

• Avoid purifiers that only "sometimes" remove pollutants; opt for ones that provide consistent air filtration.

• Look for units with sensors that automatically adjust settings based on air quality.

4. More Than Just Large Particles

The best air purifiers should also remove a variety of airborne contaminants, including:

• Mycotoxins
• Dust
• Bacteria
• VOCs (volatile organic compounds)
• Flame retardants
• Phthalates
• Sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide

5. Space Considerations

• Each model has a recommended space capacity—ensure the purifier is suited for the room size.

• For whole-home coverage, consider a whole-house purification system that integrates with your HVAC system for optimal filtration.

Bottom Line

When it comes to eliminating mold spores in the air, make sure to consider the recommendations above for your unique situation. The main things to look for are purifiers that can filter out the smallest particles possible the majority of the time, have an activated carbon filter to eliminate gases, and are the right size for the space. 

Additional Steps to Eliminate Mold Spores in the Air

1. Change Filters on Time

• If air filters are past their replacement time, they are likely packed with particles, reducing filtration efficiency.

• Clogged filters can lead to increased mold spore presence and strain on the HVAC system.

2. Upgrade to the Highest-Rated MERV Filter Possible

• Switching to the highest-rated MERV filters for your HVAC system improves indoor air quality.

• Higher-rated MERV filters can effectively capture mold spores and prevent them from recirculating.

3. Service the HVAC System

• The HVAC system acts as the lungs of the home, and improper maintenance can lead to mold contamination.

• Regular servicing (bi-annually) helps prevent mold growth in the system, ensures that it’s running properly, and maintains efficient filtration.

4. Reduce Clutter

• Clutter provides surfaces for mold spores and dust to collect, making cleaning more difficult.

• Periodically declutter your home to prevent mold spores from accumulating on surfaces and becoming airborne.

5. Use the Right Cleaning Products

Effective cleaning products help remove mold spores from surfaces and prevent them from spreading into the air.

• Microfiber cloths: 100 times more effective than cotton towels at removing particles.

• Botanical laundry additives: Help eliminate mold spores trapped in fabric fibers and cleanse the washing machine.

• Botanical cleaners with surfactants: Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach; use natural ingredients to remove contaminants effectively.

• HEPA vacuum cleaner: Captures ultra-fine and microscopic particles, including mold spores, instead of releasing them back into the air.

6. Stay on Top of Pet Grooming

• Pets bring in contaminants from outside that can contribute to indoor mold spore levels.

• Regular grooming and cleaning of pet bedding help reduce particulate matter, improving air quality.

7. Avoid Carpets

• Carpets trap moisture, dust, and mold spores, creating an ideal environment for microbial growth.

• Opt for non-porous flooring surfaces that are easier to clean and maintain to help eliminate mold spores in the air.

• If using rugs, vacuum them frequently with a HEPA vacuum cleaner to cut down on indoor levels.

8. Maintain Your Bed

• Keeping mattresses clean helps prevent mold spores from settling in bedding and affecting air quality when they’re disturbed.

• Wash bedding, pillows, and mattress protectors regularly using a botanical laundry additive.

• Vacuum mattresses with a HEPA vacuum cleaner to remove microscopic particles.

9. Stick to Non-Porous and Semi-Porous Surfaces

• Porous materials can trap mold spores and other contaminants, making cleaning difficult. These then become airborne when disturbed, leading to unwanted exposures for you and your loved ones.

• Choose non-porous and semi-porous materials to reduce mold spore buildup in the home.

By implementing these strategies alongside using the right air purifier, you can significantly improve indoor air quality and effectively eliminate mold spores in the air, creating a healthier living environment.