Mold Cleanup Precautions

You should avoid breathing in mold or mold spores and if you have health problems, you should consult with your doctor before engaging in any kind of mold cleanup. 

Wear a Respirator or Mask.  To avoid breathing in airborne mold spores, wear a respirator or mask when cleaning up mold.  The EPA recommends a properly fitting N-95 respirator, which is available at many hardware stores and from companies that advertise on the Internet.  These N-95 respirators cost about $12 to $25.  Some resemble a paper dust mask with a nozzle on the front, while others are made primarily of plastic or rubber and have removable cartridges that trap most of the mold spores from entering.  These respirators are not effective if they do not fit properly.

Wear Gloves.  If you're using detergent and water to clean up mold, ordinary household rubber gloves should do the trick.  If you are using bleach or some other type of strong cleaner, it is recommended that you wear sturdier globes that are made from natural rubber, neoprene, nitrile, polyurethane, or PVC.  You should not touch the mold directly with your bare hands.

Wear Proper Clothing.  You don't want your skin to contact the mold, so wear long sleeves and pants when cleaning up the mold.

Wear Goggles.  Avoid getting mold or mold spores in your eyes.  The EPA recommends that you wear goggles that do not have ventilation holes.

Remember, if you suspect that you have a health problem that is triggered or exacerbated by mold, consult with your doctor first.  It may be better that you have a professional cleaner remove any mold growth you have in your home or office space.