Mold is a type of fungus found both indoors and outdoors. It can grow anywhere there is moisture or humidity, moderate to warm temperatures, and an organic food source, such as paper, dust, or animal dander.

Mold “spores,” which are comparable to tiny seeds, carry mold through the air. When spores attach to damp surfaces, mold begins to grow. Mold may have a black, “speckled” appearance, it may be slimy, or it may have a white, stringy appearance.

There are different types of mold. Some molds, like those used to make medicines and cheeses, are useful. Other molds can be harmful; some molds produce chemicals that are toxic. When mold is found indoors, it may be a health issue.

Mold in a childcare setting can cause health problems for young children and caregivers. It is important to know the problems mold can cause, where it can develop in your childcare setting, and how to eliminate it.

How Mold Affects Children’s Health

Young children have an increased risk for mold-related health problems. Young children’s immune system and lungs are not fully developed; this leaves them particularly vulnerable to air pollutants, including mold. For their body weight, children breathe in four times as much air as adults. Children who have allergies or asthma are at even greater risk because mold can be a trigger for reactions.

People react to mold differently. Some people are unaffected, while others are highly allergic or sensitive to mold. Symptoms may include respiratory problems such as congestion, sneezing, coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Other symptoms may include headaches, watery or burning eyes, fatigue, nosebleeds, loss of balance or memory, trouble speaking, fever, and skin rashes.

How a child or adult is affected by mold depends on several factors, including the type and amount of mold, closeness to the mold and how often they are exposed to it, and the person’s age and personal sensitivity to mold. In large and concentrated amounts, some generally harmless molds can reach dangerous, toxic levels.

Mold in Childcare is a Concern

To some extent, the very nature of the early childhood setting is conducive to mold. Areas of high use such as kitchens, laundry rooms, and restrooms are often moist and damp, allowing mold growth.

There are often several sinks, toilets, and water fountains in early childhood facilities, all of which are potential breeding grounds for mold. Some facilities may have areas where mold can grow unnoticed, such as storage closets and mechanical rooms.

Childcare facilities operate in a variety of buildings; many of these structures were initially designed for other purposes and have been remodeled or altered to serve the needs of children and staff. In some cases, building modifications can increase the risk for mold. For example, placing carpet over concrete floors where there is condensation can result in trapped moisture, which in turn allows mold to grow.

Mold is found where there is moisture. Other environmental conditions that contribute to mold include dark or dim lighting, poor air circulation, and moderate to warm temperatures. Building materials, such as drywall, carpet, wood, upholstery, and particle board can stimulate mold growth if conditions are right. Even dust, paper, and paint can feed mold growth.

A building that has been water damaged by leaks or flooding will be prone to mold problems. Pay close attention to the area around the damage, especially if the water damage was not addressed within two days. Examine pipes, roofs, walls, and heating and cooling systems for moisture and mold. Look for telltale signs of mold, such as musty odor, carpet that feels damp, or discolored ceiling tiles.

If you suspect mold is present, your first action should be to protect you and the children in your care. Move away from the area immediately. Depending on your situation, you may report the problem to a director or other person who will investigate, or you may return later to address the mold issue.

Most important, remember that moisture is the underlying cause of mold. To permanently remove mold, the moisture problem must be eliminated or the mold will eventually return.

Preventing Mold

The best way to prevent mold in your childcare program is to control moisture. First, keep the relative humidity between 30-50 percent. If you do not know what the humidity level is, consider installing a gauge. If the humidity is very high, you may need to use a dehumidifier.

One of the best safeguards against mold is consistent, thorough maintenance and cleaning of your childcare setting. Pay special attention to cleaning laundry rooms, restrooms, kitchens, and mop closets. The ceiling, roof, walls, plumbing, flooring, and heating and air conditioning systems should be examined and serviced regularly. When you conduct regular safety checks, looking for mold should be included.

If carpet smells musty or you see mold on it, replace it. Avoid installing carpet in entryways that open directly to the outdoors. Vacuum upholstered furnishings, blinds, mattresses, and curtains regularly. When carpets are steam-cleaned, be certain that they are thoroughly dried. Never paint over moldy surfaces.

Removing Mold

If you are uncertain about how to safely proceed with removing mold, consult your local health department, environmental health agency, or Cooperative Extension Service office. Mold can be dangerous and toxic, so do not hesitate to seek information and help.

If mold contamination is extensive, it should be professionally removed. If the area of mold contamination is small (less than two square feet), ask for recommendations before cleaning it yourself.

Always wear protective clothing when removing mold. Wear rubber gloves, eye protection, a mask or some other type of respiratory protection, and clothing that covers and protects your skin. Make sure you have a good source of ventilation, and avoid staying in the area for extended periods of time.

As a childcare provider, it is important for you to be able to recognize mold. Remain alert to the presence of moisture and mold, and take the necessary action to protect you and the children in your care.

Marna Holland
Parent Educator
Asheville City Preschools, Asheville, NC

Internet Resources

Asthma Friendly Childcare, www.asthmaandallergies.org/Articles/Asthma%20Friendly%20Child%20Care.pdf

Is Mold Affecting the Air Quality in Your Childcare Facility?, Child Care Center
Connections, fcs.tamu.edu/families/child_care/newsletters_school_age/sac_taex/sac10_4taex.pdf

Mold in Schools Fact Sheet, www.epa.gov/iaq/schools/pdfs/publications/moldfactsheet.pdf

Preventing Mold Checklist, healthychild.org/live-healthy/checklist/prevent_mold_exposure