If you’re a fish lover, chances are you’ve considered having an aquarium inside your home. After all, they can be beautiful to look at and provide hours of entertainment. But unknown to you, indoor aquariums can also be a source of toxic mold.
What Is Mold?
It is a type of fungus that can grow virtually anywhere there is moisture and organic material. It can lead to different health problems, such as respiratory issues and skin irritation.
Be sure to visit this page for more info about mold and how mold removal services work.
How Does Mold Grow in Aquariums?
Mold grows best in moist environments, so it often thrives in aquariums. The water and organic matter in an aquarium provide the perfect conditions for mold to grow. And since most aquariums are kept in warm, humid environments, the risk of mold growth is high.
What to Do to Prevent Mold Growth in Aquariums
You can do a few things to help prevent mold growth in your aquarium.
- First, make sure to keep the water level below the top of the tank. This will help reduce moisture levels and decrease the chances of mold growth.
- You can install a dehumidifier near your aquarium to further reduce humidity levels.
- Finally, clean your aquarium regularly to remove any organic matter that may provide food for mold.
If you already have a fish tank and are experiencing mold growth, it’s best to consult with a professional to get rid of the mold and prevent it from coming back. Mold can be dangerous to your health, so it’s important to take steps to protect yourself.
Tips in Cleaning Aquariums
So how do you clean an aquarium without stirring up the dust and potentially releasing the fungi into the air?
- Wear a dust mask. This helps protect your lungs from any fungal spores that may be released during cleaning.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or detergents when cleaning your aquarium. These can also release spores into the air and cause respiratory problems.
- Use a natural cleaner like white vinegar or baking soda. Both of these cleaners effectively remove algae and dirt without releasing any spores.
Home-Made Solutions to Eliminate Mold Inside Your House
If the mold from your aquarium spreads in some parts of your home, here are home-made solutions to get rid of it:
1. Vinegar and Water
Gently mix equal parts of water and vinegar and pour it in a spray bottle. Spray the moldy areas and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. Scrub off the mold with a brush and rinse with clean water.
2. Borax and Water
Make a borax paste and water and apply it to the moldy areas. Allow to sit for 30 minutes before scrubbing it off with a brush and rinsing with clean water.
3. Tea Tree Oil
Combine 10-15 drops of tea tree oil to a liter of water. Soak a cloth in the mixture and apply it to the moldy areas. Wait for 10-15 minutes before scrubbing it off with a brush and rinsing it with clean water.
4. Organic Solutions
You can use several organic solutions to remove mold from your homes, such as grapefruit seed extract, baking soda, or hydrogen peroxide. But these solutions may be less effective than the vinegar, borax, or tea tree oil solutions.
If you have trouble getting rid of the mold in your home, it is always best to call a professional like puroclean.com for assistance.
Conclusion
Indoor aquariums can be a great way to provide hours of entertainment. But be aware that indoor aquariums can also be a source of toxic mold, which can grow with moisture and organic material.
Mold can result in various health problems, including respiratory issues, skin irritation, and allergies. Fortunately, you can do a few things to help prevent mold growth in your aquarium and prevent the spread in your entire home.
If the mold in your house is serious, it is best to consult with professionals who know what they are doing. PuroClean is one of the top restoration companies with many offices across the country with services including water cleanup New Albany if you’re nearby.
