“Can Mold Grow In Microwaves?” And Other Cleanup Questions

Unfortunately, kitchens are prone to mold and mildew growth because of the high levels of moisture and humidity present. Between the sink, refrigerator, and dishwasher, many gallons of water flow through the plumbing every day. When you add up the water for  steaming, cooking, mopping and cleaning, even more moisture is present in that space. 

Mold also needs an organic food source: people food, pet food on the floor, damp paper, wet wood. It also flourishes in areas of low light and poor ventilation. So where does it grow in your kitchen?

Simple Housekeeping Problems

Like all living organisms, mold spores require a source of food. Food particles left behind after microwaving can provide sufficient sustenance for mold in the oven, and so can layers of dirt in a microwave that has not been cleaned in some time.

The next ingredient for mold is sustained moisture; mold cannot grow inside of a clean, dry microwave. Some condensation inside the unit is normal when cooking wet foods but moisture should dissipate in ten to fifteen minutes. Steam and vapor will escape from around the door. There are air vents in the door that allows air to flow between the panes of the window in the door. Air passage through the door helps keep the door cool to the touch during operation.

And unfortunately, microwave radiation does not effectively kill mold spores. While extreme heat from a microwave can neutralize some active colonies, you should not rely on microwave heat to kill mold. Disinfect the microwave with vinegar to kill it.

Definite Water Damage Problems

More concerning than the occasional moldy food item, is mold resulting from water damage. Mold in kitchens is most often found under the sink, in and behind cupboards, around window sills, behind appliances and kitchen furniture, on walls and around taps or sinks. When the dark interior of a kitchen cabinet has a leak, mold can develop.

One of the most important things you can do to prevent mold in the kitchen is to make sure that your kitchen is well-insulated, the windows are adequately weatherproofed, and that plumbing is functional and operating without leaks. Make sure your kitchen is adequately ventilated with a range hood, and use it when you’re cooking to remove humidity from the air. If weather permits, open a window to release humidity  during cooking.

If you find water damage, have the Alert team investigate. They will find and fix the original source of moisture and then clear all resulting mold. 

More Complicated Structural Problems

In a much more serious scenario, building materials can be damaged from prolonged contact with water. Extensive damage to the foundation can occur. The house begins to shift under its own weight. Vertical stability is undermined and the structure often sinks further into the ground. Also, basement walls may begin flexing inward as they become structurally unsound. 

At this point, mold can infiltrate the HVAC system, as well. Alert Disaster Restoration is a complete restoration company that can make the home solid again– with no trace of mold. 

Bakersfield’s Mold Cleanup Experts

Alert Disaster has created a mold solution to protect your family in three steps: 

• Identifying the mold types and quantity of mold spores is done by certified inspectors and then analyzed in the lab. A variety of inspection options are available.

• The contaminated area is first contained to prevent the spread of mold spores to “clean zones” and the mold is removed according to IICRC and AIQ standards. Then air filtration devices are used to eliminate airborne spores and we reconstruct if needed.

• Following the restoration process, we verify a job well done through third party re-inspection.

Alert Disaster Restoration is an independent firm serving California. Contact them for a full mold cleanup disaster contractor.