Your home should be a place of comfort and safety, but when mold and actinomycetes (actinos) are present, it can become a hidden source of health issues.
These environmental toxins are not only harmful but also resilient, often thriving in areas you might overlook. Whether you’re dealing with chronic symptoms or simply want to create a healthier living space, implementing the best cleaning practices for mold and actinos is key to reducing exposure to these harmful substances.
First Off, What are Mold and Actinomycetes?
Mold and actinomycetes are microorganisms that thrive in damp, humid environments. While mold is a type of fungus, actinos are bacteria that also flourish in similar conditions.
Both can produce toxins that, when inhaled or absorbed, can contribute to a variety of health issues, including Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS), respiratory problems, and even autoimmune conditions.
And if you are part of the 25% of people who are genetically susceptible to mold and other biotoxin-related illnesses(like CIRS), you will especially want to read to the end of this article.
This genetic susceptibility stems from variations in the HLA-DR gene, which is critical for our immune response. However, these specific genetic variations can impair the body's ability to recognize and remove certain toxins, including those produced by mold, leading to a heightened sensitivity or adverse reactions to mold exposure. The toxins from these microorganisms can build up in their bodies, leading to Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS).
If you're experiencing symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, breathing problems, or other persistent health issues, it might be connected to this genetic factor. Knowing about this genetic link can help identify those of us who are more vulnerable, highlighting why it's so important to keep our homes mold-free to avoid CIRS.
Why you Need to Avoid Mold and Actinomycetes
The challenge with these microorganisms is that they can be pervasive and resilient. They can be hiding in places all around your home without you being aware. Plus, regular cleaning practices might not be enough to eliminate them entirely, which is why I wanted to write this article.
The Issue with Regular "Mold" Cleaning Products
When it comes to dealing with mold and actinomycetes, many of us turn to conventional cleaning products specifically labeled for mold removal. However, these products often come with their own set of issues.
Actinomycetes are incredibly resilient microorganisms because these bacteria have the ability to form a protective biofilm around their colonies, which not only makes them resistant to cleaning attempts but also helps them adhere firmly to surfaces. This is just one reason why current cleaning and hygiene recommendations for actinos are so meticulous.
Many regular mold cleaning products, like Fantastik, Mold Amour, Clorox, and Windex, contain harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, and other synthetic compounds. While these substances may kill mold on the surface, they can also release toxic fumes like volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that contribute to indoor air pollution. Inhaling these fumes can worsen respiratory issues, irritate your eyes and skin, and even affect your central nervous system, causing symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and cognitive difficulties. If you're already dealing with Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) or other chronic health conditions, exposure to these chemicals can further compromise your immune system and overall health.
Then, not to mention, these conventional products might not be effective against the resilient spores of mold and actinomycetes. Sometimes, cleaning agents can actually spread the spores to new areas, making the infestation worse. This ineffective cleaning can lead to a false sense of security…the visible mold might be gone, but the underlying problem persists, continuing to affect your health.
While regular mold cleaning products might seem like a quick fix, they often come with hidden health risks and might not effectively address the problem.
Cleaning Tips for Mold and Actinos In Your Home
Tackling mold in your home can feel daunting, but understanding the common causes can help you get ahead of it. If you’ve got leaks from water pipes or the roof, get those fixed as soon as possible to prevent moisture buildup. Had flooding before? It might be wise to think about moving if it's a recurring issue because that can really ramp up mold growth. Pull out any wet carpets quickly—they're a playground for mold and bacteria.
Check for any cracks in your walls or around windows, as these can let mold sneak in from the outside. Notice condensation building up on cooler surfaces like windows? This can lead to mold on wooden frames, so using moisture eliminators on your windowsills might be a good call.
Just keep in mind that if mold’s popping up elsewhere, you might need a different approach.
Don’t forget about your air conditioning and heating units! Regular checks and cleanings are essential to stop them from spreading mold spores around your home.
While these are my initial tips to avoiding major mold takeover, there's more that you can do.
If you do find mold or are unsure just how severe your specific mold case is, I highly recommend reaching out to a mold inspector to find the source of your exposure. To find someone to do the inspection, you can check out this online directory from the National Organization of Remediators and Mold Inspectors. Depending on the results of your inspection, the person doing your inspection can usually recommend a remediation specialist.
Practice Regular Deep Cleaning
Regular deep cleaning is necessary to reach those areas where mold and actinos might hide, such as under carpets, behind walls, and inside air ducts. Focus on bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and crawl spaces, and don’t forget about your HVAC system. And guess what? The human habitat species of Actinos are often found where there might be dead skin cells (mattressess and showers) so these are areas that need to be cleaned often. One big cleaning tip for mold and acinos is that I suggest changing your bed sheets weekly and before remaking the bed to vacuum the mattress with their HEPA vacuum. And even cleaning behind and under your appliances, scrubbing tiles and grout, and using mold-resistant paint are just a few other examples of how you can avoid significant biotoxin accumulation.
Use the Right Non-Toxic Mold and Actinos Cleaning Products
Using the right non toxic mold cleaning products is another key practice. Not all cleaning products are effective against mold and actinos, as I mentioned above and some might even exacerbate the problem by spreading spores or failing to kill the microorganisms.
Opt for products specifically designed to target mold and bacteria, ideally those that are non-toxic and safe for regular use in your home. Ingredients like borax, hydrogen peroxide, vinegar, castile soap, and essential oils such as tea tree oil have been shown to be effective.
The pathogenic species of actinos have a waxy outer layer (and as I mentioned previously, they are sticky and adhere to surfaces). Studies show that using a blend of water, vinegar and non-toxic clear dish soap works as a great surfactant to address actinos.
However, please know that vinegar alone may not be enough for severe cases—combining it with hydrogen peroxide can increase its effectiveness.
Maintain Proper Ventilation
One of the most important steps you can take is maintaining proper ventilation in your home. Mold and actinos thrive in humid environments, so controlling moisture levels is key.
Make sure your home is well-ventilated, especially in areas prone to dampness like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. Using exhaust fans when cooking or showering and using a dehumidifier in humid climates (especially those basements!) can make a significant difference.
Control Moisture Levels in Your Home
Controlling moisture levels in your home is absolutely necessary to preventing the growth of mold and actinos. Fix any leaks in your roof, walls, or plumbing as soon as they’re discovered, use a dehumidifier to keep humidity levels below 50%, and make sure to dry wet areas promptly after cleaning, bathing, or cooking. By keeping moisture under control, you create an environment that is less hospitable to these harmful organisms.
Inspect and Replace Problem Areas
Regularly inspecting and replacing problem areas in your home is also vital. Carpets, wallpaper, and insulation can harbor mold and actinos even after cleaning. And even drains that are not used often, (like p-traps and sump-pumps) can be a place that harbor actinos and endotoxins. You may want to consider replacing carpets with hard flooring, inspect insulation regularly, and consider taking down that wallpaper in favor of mold-resistant paint. These changes can help prevent mold from taking hold in the first place.
Invest in Air Purification System
Air purification is another important aspect of maintaining a healthy home. Mold spores and actinos can linger in the air, even after thorough cleaning. Installing HEPA filters in your vacuum cleaner, HVAC system, and air purifiers can capture these harmful particles and remove the majority of them. I recommend investing in a high-quality air purifier, like iAdapt from Air Oasis that has both HEPA and activated carbon filters and UV LEDs for optimal results. Put these in the problem area rooms or rooms you spend the most time in.
I also recommend to people with elevated Actinos (either in the home or on their body) is probiotics. Since it is a bacteria, it competes with beneficial bacteria (specfically lactobacillus), so this is a good probiotic strain to take orally. But I also recommend a home probiotic spray called HomeBiotic (after professionaly deep cleaning has occured and part of on going cleaning and maintenance).
Strengthen Your Immune System to Combat Mold and Actinos
To combat mold and actinomycetes effectively while strengthening your immune system, focus on a balanced approach…
Nourish your body: Consume a diverse diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
Manage stress: Practice relaxation techniques, engage in regular physical activity, and ensure adequate sleep.
Limit antibiotic and anti-fungal use: Prevent microbiota imbalance and excessive fungal growth.
Maintain a clean environment: Use natural cleaning methods and ensure proper ventilation to avoid environmental toxin buildup.
This holistic strategy not only bolsters your immune resilience but also maintains a safe balance in your living space, helping you fend off environmental pathogens sustainably.
Regular Testing
Finally, regularly testing your home is essential to make sure that mold and actinos are under control. Early detection allows for swift action before problems really escalate. Tests like the ERMI, HERTSMI-2 from EnviroBiomics are great tools for monitoring your home’s mold and actinos levels. Regular testing, combined with proactive cleaning, can help maintain a healthy living environment.
Implementing these cleaning practices can significantly reduce your exposure to mold and actinomycetes, creating a healthier environment for you and your family. However, if you’re already experiencing symptoms of CIRS or other chronic conditions, you need to take a comprehensive approach to your health. I specialize in identifying and addressing the root causes of chronic illness, including environmental toxins like mold and actinos.
Worried You Have A Mold Illness? Book Your Call with Me Today
If you suspect that your home environment is affecting your health, it's time to take action. Mold and actinomycetes toxicity can manifest in various ways, including fatigue, respiratory issues, cognitive problems, and more.
As a Functional Nutritional Practitioner, I offer a personalized approach tailored to your unique situation:
Individualized toxicity assessment: Through comprehensive testing and analysis of your specific symptoms, we determine if and how mold or actinomycetes are impacting your health.
Custom detoxification support: I create a nutrition plan designed specifically for you, targeting your body's unique detox needs and immune system requirements.
Tailored protocols to ensure efficient drainage and detoxification: We explore safe, effective methods suited to your body and lifestyle, such as personalized binder regimens, customized sauna therapy plans, and supplements chosen for your individual needs.
Holistic health balancing: Recognizing that toxicity often coexists with other health issues, we work to restore balance to your gut, hormones, and overall health based on your unique profile.
Customized recovery plan: In addition to a customized health protocol and plan, we focus on lifestyle. My goal and biggest passion is education and I strive to educate my clients so they can be empowered in their health outcomes. We focus on lifestyle changes, stress management techniques, and ongoing support tailored to your specific circumstances and goals.
Ready to take control of your health with a plan designed just for you?
Book a call with me, Eli Priest, to discuss your unique concerns and create a personalized strategy to improve your living environment and overall well-being.
Together, we can help you reclaim your health, detoxify your body, and create a safe, nurturing home environment that supports your long-term wellness – all customized to your individual needs and circumstances.
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