Tips to Avoid Mold
The Bedroom
Mold spores are commonly found in outdoor air and move inside through open windows, doors, ducts, and air conditioners or from your body. Although mold formation is uncommon, given the right conditions, any upholstered product can develop mold.
Following are a few simple steps to not only help reduce the risk of mold growth in your bedroom, but to help create a healthier sleeping environment overall.
- One key element to help deter mold growth is to control the moisture in the air. Use a dehumidifier to help reduce the potential for mold or mildew growth. Also, keep humidity levels under 50 percent.
- Avoid placing your bed on an outside wall or directly above an air conditioning or heating vent, which can cause condensation and increase the chance for mold growth in any mattress.
- Use a high-quality mattress pad to protect your mattress from moisture, particularly if you heavily perspire while sleeping.
- Wait 20-30 minutes before making your bed each morning, turning the covers back and allowing the mattress to air out for a bit.
- Vacuum the bedroom regularly, using a high-quality vacuum cleaner such as one with a HEPA filter, one that does deep cleaning, or a central-vacuum system.
- Reduce dust mites by using allergen covers on pillows and mattresses. Also, wash bedding weekly in hot water (at least 130 degrees).
- Use a high-quality electronic air purifier to remove additional airborne particulates from the bedroom. (Note: Ionic air cleaners ARE NOT recommended for use with the Sleep Number® bed, as they can cause the natural rubber in the air chambers to break down over time.)
Source: "Indoor Allergy Survival Tips," American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.
