What you can do to prevent mold growth in University spaces

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, molds are found in virtually every environment. Mold and mildew thrive in warm, humid places, including in our University buildings and residence halls. Therefore, moisture control, proper use of thermostats to allow for air circulation, and good housekeeping practices are necessary to control mold growth.

How to prevent mold and mildew

General good housekeeping practices (vacuum floors, wipe down counters, clean up spills, wipe the inside and outside of refrigerators, etc.) should be shared by all building occupants to help reduce the potential for mold growth.
To help prevent the growth of mold and mildew in University buildings and residential spaces, it is essential that students, faculty, and staff do the following:

• Do not open windows during cooling or heating season.
• Where users have access to thermostats, set temperature to 68 to 72 degrees and run the fan on auto to reduce the amount of condensation on or around windows and to maintain proper airflow.
• Keep air vents unobstructed. 
• Do not hang towels (or any other wet items) to dry between your mattress and bed frame. This can cause mold to grow on the bottom of your mattress.
• Good housekeeping practices (vacuum floors, wipe down counters, clean up spills quickly, wash out refrigerators, including wiping the doors, etc.) should be shared by all roommates to help reduce the number of food sources for mold growth.
• Report any water problems (leaks behind a toilet or under sinks, dripping faucets, wet carpet, leak from a ceiling, etc.) immediately by contacting Facilities Management at 740-593-2911.

The University has created a website with resources and information to help keep our living and working spaces free of mildew and mold.

Finally, to report mold or mildew growth, please contact Facilities Management and Safety (FMS) at 740-593-2911.