Mold growth can be one of the trickiest problems to identify. A professional mold inspection can confirm whether any problematic mold is present in your home, but how do you keep mold from occurring in the first place? Here are three easy tips to prevent mold in your home.

1. Manage Moisture and Humidity

Even if mold spores are present in your home, they can't grow without exposure to a source of moisture. If your home is excessively humid, condensation from the air may be enough to spur mold growth. Ideally, the humidity in your home should stay between 30 and 50 percent as measured on a hygrometer. Portable dehumidifiers are useful tools to reduce humidity in any room.

Direct exposure to moisture from spills or leaks can also cause mold to set up on porous surfaces. Always clean up spills promptly, and call a plumber immediately if you notice water spots, musty odors, or hear running water behind your walls.

2. Maintain Your Gutters

Basement mold problems often occur due to improper drainage in the soil around your home's foundation. Water-saturated soil puts pressure on foundation walls and causes water to seep in which can create a mold problem. Preventing this type of damage is the primary function of your home's gutters.

When your gutters are clogged with leaves and debris, they may overflow during rainfall and allow groundwater to collect around your foundation. Most contractors recommend seasonal gutter cleanings to avoid basement moisture problems, or monthly cleanings if you live in a wooded area.

3. Use Mold Control Products

There are several cleaners and disinfectants on the market that are specifically formulated to fight mold. Fungicide sprays are a safe and effective option for most homeowners who are struggling with mold in the bathroom or kitchen. Those with high sensitivity to chemical cleaners can use botanical products or diluted bleach as alternatives.

A few specific strategies are effective for handling mold growth in problem areas. For example, adding borax to your washing machine and running it for an empty hot cycle can discourage mold growth in the appliance and on your clothes. Adding mold inhibitor to paint will prevent mold from growing on newly painted walls, and a high-efficiency furnace filter can help to remove mold spores from your air.

No house is mold-proof, but using these tips will fortify your home against mold as much as possible. If you notice a musty odor or aggravated allergy symptoms in your home, mold may already be taking root. Contact a mold testing company for a professional mold inspection.