Mold Information

Mold Information

There is always some mold around. Molds have been on the Earth for millions of years. Mold can get in your home through open doors, windows, vents, and heating and air conditioning systems. Mold in the air outside can be brought indoors on clothing, shoes, bags, and even pets.

Mold FAQ's

  • How can I prevent mold growth?

    To help prevent the growth of mold and mildew in residential spaces, it is essential that resident students do the following:

    1. Keep windows closed.
    2. Set thermostats between 68 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Please note that some buildings’ thermostats are set to provide protections against these substances and cannot be changed below or above a certain temperature.
    3. Keep bathroom doors closed while showering.
    4. Keep air vents unobstructed.
    5. Hang wet towels or clothing to allow them to dry. Please note that hanging a wet towel that touches a wall can accelerate growth process with these substances. Make sure your wet towels do not come in contact with any porous materials, like walls, as they dry.
    6. Keep all surfaces, furniture, and clothing dry.
    7. Routinely clean bathroom areas to prevent the growth of soap scum or buildup of mildew (Community bathrooms are cleaned daily by maintenance staff).
    8. Report any water problems (leaks, dripping faucets, wet carpet, drips heard behind the air intake cover, etc.) immediately by submitting a Maintenance Request via the Housing Portal.
    9. Allow University Housing or its contractors to enter the room to inspect and make necessary repairs.
    10. Notify University Housing of any problems with the air-conditioning or heating systems.
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  • What do I do if I suspect mold in a room or building?

    Things to do if you suspect mold in your campus work or living area:

    1. Contact the EHS Director at Paul.Hill@millersville.edu; 

              and/or

    2. Complete a facilities work order request through the Facilities Management Department
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  • What are some health effects from mold?

    For some people, mold can cause a stuffy nose, sore throat, coughing or wheezing, burning eyes, or skin rash. People with asthma or who are allergic to mold may have severe reactions. Immune-compromised people and people with chronic lung disease may get infections in their lungs from mold. For people who are sensitive to molds exposure to molds can lead to symptoms such as stuffy nose, wheezing, and red or itchy eyes, or skin.

    Severe reactions, such as fever or shortness of breath, may occur among workers exposed to large amounts of molds in occupational settings, such as farmers working around moldy hay.

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  • What can I do to treat mold?

    If you see or smell mold, you should remove it. You do not need to know the type of mold. If mold is growing in your home, you need to clean up the mold and fix the moisture problem.

    Mold can be removed from hard surfaces with household products, soap and water, or a bleach solution of no more than 1 cup of household laundry bleach in 1 gallon of water.

    If you use bleach

    • Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaners. This will produce a poisonous gas.
    • Follow manufacturers' instructions when you use bleach or any other cleaning product.
    • Open windows and doors to provide fresh air.
    • Wear rubber boots, rubber gloves, and goggles during cleanup.
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