The core idea
Mold needs moisture. The U.S. EPA says it is important to dry water-damaged areas and items within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold growth. Everything below is about meeting that target or dealing with what cannot meet it.
In the first 24 to 48 hours
- Stop the source so materials can start drying.
- Remove standing water. See water extraction.
- Move wet items out and spread them where air can reach them.
- Lift or remove wet padding and loose wet materials that will not dry in place, after photographing them.
- Increase airflow and lower humidity with fans and dehumidifiers.
- Check hidden places: inside cabinets, behind baseboards, under flooring and in closets.
Materials that often cannot be saved
Porous items that stay wet are the usual source of mold: carpet padding, wet insulation, soaked drywall and upholstered items. If a material cannot be dried quickly, discarding it is often safer than keeping it. Your provider will advise by material.
Humidity in Florida
Warm, humid air slows drying and supports mold. Keep the AC running when it is safe, avoid opening windows on very humid days, and consider a dehumidifier. Measure with a hygrometer if you want to see what the air is doing.
If you already see mold
- Do not disturb it more than necessary and keep people with asthma or allergies away.
- Fix the moisture source first; cleaning mold without fixing moisture is temporary.
- Know that Florida licenses mold professionals. The Department of Business and Professional Regulation licenses individuals as mold assessors and mold remediators, and has insurance requirements for each (DBPR). Check a license before you hire.
When to call a professional
Call one if mold is widespread, if materials were soaked by contaminated water, if you cannot find the moisture source, or if someone in the home has a health condition affected by mold.