Yes, an air purifier (a GOOD one) certainly can help with mold and pet odors, but it’s only part of the solution.
Mold thrives in conditions that are damp, dark, and don’t have a lot of moving air. Removing moisture, as well as things that HOLD moisture, will help.
A dehumidifier is indispensable. You need to be pulling that water out of the air to discourage mold growth. You should be able to buy one for $150-$200. Definitely worth it.
Make sure there aren’t any unfixed plumbing leaks in the house (under sinks? Around the tub?).
Old carpet (or any carpet) can be a real hotbed for mold AND sponge for pet odors. If it gets wet, it doesn’t dry well, and then the subfloor beneath may harbor the moisture, too. This creates the perfect environment for mold.
Removing the carpet and replacing it with wood or laminate is the best option, but if you’re renting and can’t, try at least sprinkling borax (found in the laundry aisle; has anti-mold properties) on your carpet, leaving it overnight, then vacuuming in the morning.
Also, have open windows when you can. The fresh, moving air will discourage mold growth and make the rooms smell better. We ALL need more fresh air.
So, to sum up, get the air purifier, but get a dehumidifier and some borax, too.
If you have mould in your home, the problem is probably down to damp. You could try to get hold of a de-humidifier but I think they are quite expensive.
Comment by pink_sheep50 — October 23, 2009 @ 9:26 am
Yes, an air purifier (a GOOD one) certainly can help with mold and pet odors, but it’s only part of the solution.
Mold thrives in conditions that are damp, dark, and don’t have a lot of moving air. Removing moisture, as well as things that HOLD moisture, will help.
A dehumidifier is indispensable. You need to be pulling that water out of the air to discourage mold growth. You should be able to buy one for $150-$200. Definitely worth it.
Make sure there aren’t any unfixed plumbing leaks in the house (under sinks? Around the tub?).
Old carpet (or any carpet) can be a real hotbed for mold AND sponge for pet odors. If it gets wet, it doesn’t dry well, and then the subfloor beneath may harbor the moisture, too. This creates the perfect environment for mold.
Removing the carpet and replacing it with wood or laminate is the best option, but if you’re renting and can’t, try at least sprinkling borax (found in the laundry aisle; has anti-mold properties) on your carpet, leaving it overnight, then vacuuming in the morning.
Also, have open windows when you can. The fresh, moving air will discourage mold growth and make the rooms smell better. We ALL need more fresh air.
So, to sum up, get the air purifier, but get a dehumidifier and some borax, too.
Hope this helps!
Comment by Sarah M — October 23, 2009 @ 9:26 am
If you have mould in your home, the problem is probably down to damp. You could try to get hold of a de-humidifier but I think they are quite expensive.
Comment by pink_sheep50 — October 23, 2009 @ 9:26 am