Without proper cleaning and prevention, the potential for mold and mildew in university residence halls is not unusual. To help educate and alleviate your fears of microbial growth, please review the following information and resources.

What Are Mold and Mildew?

Mold

Mold is a fungus that grows due to moisture and warm climate. Left untreated, mold growth can become dangerous to your health and lead to allergies, asthma, irritated headaches and breathing issues.

Mold
Mildew

Mildew

A surface fungus identified as a patch of white or gray fungus that may turn brown lying flat on the surface of a moist area; may also appear powdery or like small dots.

Identifying Mold In Your Unit

  • Grows near air vents, windows, balcony doors or in showers.
  • May have a distinct, unpleasant sweet or sour smell.
  • Can be black, green, red, or gray, and appear “fuzzy” or slimy in texture.
  • “Pink Mold” or the pink-tinted coloration in your toilet or shower is not mold, but a bacterium that grows in warm, wet environments and thrives off fatty substances like soap. 

ATTENTION!

Please Keep the Temperature In Your Unit At 68-72°F and Set the Fan Mode to "Auto," Not "On." Not Following These Settings Can Lead to Humidity and Air Quality Issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

 

  • Molds are found almost everywhere. They can grow on any organic substance where moisture and oxygen are present. Molds can grow on wood, paper, carpet, foods and insulation.

    The excessive accumulation of moisture on buildings or building materials can cause mold growth, particularly if the moisture problem remains untreated. While it is impossible to eliminate all mold spores in indoor environments, they can be controlled by maintaining proper moisture levels indoors.

  • Exposure to molds may not affect some while others may experience a variety of symptoms. Those sensitive to molds may experience allergy symptoms, asthma, irritated eyes, headaches, skin irritation, and other breathing issues.

    Please note, it is not possible to predict the response an individual might experience due to mold/mildew exposure.

  • A variety of molds can appear black. It's important to know coloration is not an indication of toxicity.

    According to the CDC, the term "toxic mold" is not accurate because mold itself is not toxic. Hazards presented by the rare molds that produce mycotoxins should be considered the same as other common molds which can grow in indoor environments. It is not necessary to identify the type of mold, as all molds should be treated the same with respect to potential health risks and removal.

    • Clean your space regularly (once every 2 weeks), including windows, windowsills and air vents.
    • Dust with a duster or microfiber cleaning cloth.
    • Use a sanitizing cleaner to get rid of mold or mildew and prevent future growth.
    • Use bleach for nonporous surfaces like showers and sinks.
    • Use vinegar solutions for porous surfaces like wood or walls.
    • Leave your bathroom fan running when you shower.
    • Don't leave windows or balcony doors open for extended periods of time. If the AC is on, don't leave doors or windows open.
    • Wipe away condensation on your windows.
    • Keep your thermostat between 68 and 74 degrees.
    • Dry wet belongings (clothing, towels, rain jackets, umbrellas, footwear, etc.) before storing.
    • Take your trash to the nearest dumpster and do not leave garbage on balconies or in the hallways.
    • Leave the washing machine lid open when not in use.

  • If you see the following issues in your room, please immediately submit a work order via the Housing Portal.

    • If you feel a draft near the exterior door or window frames where outside air is coming inside
    • If you see light peeking through your exterior doorframe on the side when it's closed
    • If you see damp or wet spots or discoloration on your walls, ceilings or floors
    • If you believe you have mold in your residence hall room that cannot be treated by household cleaners

  • Our Facilities staff provides routine maintenance of all residence halls and carefully maintains the cooling and heating systems. This includes cleaning, maintaining and repairing HVAC equipment.

    All residence halls are cleaned by our trained housekeepers before the beginning of every academic year and when a room becomes completely vacant.