Damp
Damp in the Home: Why There’s Moisture in Your Kitchen
If your home has that damp, musty feeling, there is a good possibility that you may succumb to mildew, a thin tinge that covers organic matter. Made up of microscopic organisms, Mildew in the home is a sanitary nightmare, not to mention potentially hazardous to your health.
Your kitchen is particularly susceptible, as there is almost always an active source of moisture (the kitchen sink), areas where moisture can collect (crevices between tiles, underneath cabinets, etc.), and an active supply of microorganisms to take hold. Though buildup of mildew will take some time, once it appears extensive cleaning will be required in order to get rid of it.
The golden rule of thumb is to always clean up after yourself. There’s no easier to prevent dampness in the home, and it takes much less effort in the long run than having to dedicate several hours, or even a full day, to cleaning the mess left behind from previous days. Though it isn’t always fun, cleaning your home is a necessary part of home-ownership. Who wants to live in a mildew infested pig pen?
Here are some things to watch out for in the kitchen:
* The kitchen sink – Always ensure that any organic matter that is in the sink, such as cloths, are rinsed, cleaned thoroughly, and put through the wash fairly often. As well, wash the sink down every couple of days with a cleaning agent to keep concentrations of bacteria and fungi to a minimum.
* Underneath the kitchen sink – Water can collect underneath the kitchen sink, causing that “damp home” feeling. There are many reasons for this, including leaky pipes, water falling between the sink/counter, and poor or no sealing done to any contact surfaces.
* Around the base of the refrigerator – This is especially during hot days, as condensation will form around the compressor and the base of the refrigerator, and there are likely going to be food particulates underneath the fridge. The moisture, organic material, and heat combine for a perfect breeding ground for mildew.
* Floor mats – These can collect and retain moisture quite easily. Mould and mildew can flourish in the environment provided by a floor mat, so wash them quite often to avoid any build up.
Damp in the home is quite annoying, and potentially a health hazard, so always be on the lookout for signs or indications that there is an area where moisture is collecting. Dealing with moisture build up early will prevent long term complications, like mould infestations or mildew building up on large surfaces.