Mold is probably more prevalent in your kitchen than you think. The good news is that it is easy to control the types of mold that grow in your refrigerator or in other areas of the kitchen. By following a few simple tips, you can greatly reduce the amount of mold in your home.
Clean your refrigerator every few months with one tablespoon of baking soda dissolved in a quart of water. Rinse with clear water and dry thoroughly. If there is visible mold on the rubber casings in the refrigerator, use a solution of three tablespoons bleach in one quart of water to scrub these clean.
Dish sponges are especially prone to mold, as they often never fully dry out between uses. A musty smell generally means they are spreading mold and need to be replaced. When it comes to dishcloths, towels and mops, keep them clean and fresh. Discard any items which you cannot launder once they begin to smell musty or have any visible signs of mold.
Examine food well before buying it, especially when it comes to produce or cheese. Check the stem area carefully on produce and avoid buying any that is bruised. Don’t leave perishable items out of the refrigerator for more than two hours, and use leftovers within 3-4 days so mold does not have a chance to grow.
