The warmer temperatures of spring are a wonderful time to have your home deep-cleaned with the windows open. As you’re opening up windows and working through your Spring Cleaning Checklist be sure to not forget one very important maintenance task; that is preventing moisture build up which can lead to mold growth and property damage.
The increased levels of humidity within your home, especially in the spring, create a perfect breeding ground for the growth of mold (which can begin growing within 24 hours to 48 hours). The following three Spring Maintenance Tips will help you identify areas of concern in your home and maintain a dry environment throughout the winter months.
1. Inspect for Moisture Problems and Leaks
Start your spring cleaning house checklist with a thorough moisture inspection. Walk through each room and examine these common trouble spots:
Under Sinks and Cabinets Check beneath kitchen and bathroom sinks for water stains, dampness, or active drips. Even small leaks can cause significant damage over time and create conditions for mold growth.
Windows and Glass Doors Look for condensation, fogging between panes, or water pooling on sills. These signs indicate either poor ventilation or failing window seals, both of which require immediate attention.
Basement and Crawl Spaces: Feel walls and floors for dampness. Check for water stains on foundation walls or efflorescence (white, chalky residue), which signals moisture seeping through concrete.
Bathrooms: Inspect caulking around tubs, showers, and toilets. Cracked or missing caulk allows water to penetrate walls and flooring.
Fix any leaks or condensation issues right away. What starts as a small problem can quickly escalate into costly water damage and mold remediation.
2. Use Dehumidifiers and Moisture Absorbers
Controlling indoor humidity levels is one of the best ways to reduce indoor humidity naturally and prevent mold. The EPA recommends keeping humidity between 30-50%.
For Large Spaces, Electric dehumidifiers work well in basements, laundry rooms, and other areas that consistently feel damp. Choose a unit sized appropriately for your square footage. Empty the collection bucket regularly or set up continuous drainage.
For Smaller Areas, Closets, bathrooms, and cabinets benefit from moisture-removing products like:
- Cedar blocks or rings (naturally absorb moisture and add fresh scent)
- Silica gel packets or containers
- Calcium chloride moisture absorbers
- Activated charcoal bags
These products are available at hardware stores and pharmacies. Replace them every 2-3 months or when they become saturated.
Ventilation Matters: Run exhaust fans during and after showers. Open windows on dry days to circulate fresh air. Proper ventilation prevents moisture problems more effectively than any product alone.
3. Clean and Inspect Dryer Vents
Your dryer vent deserves attention during spring maintenance for two critical reasons: fire prevention and moisture control.
Why This Matters Lint buildup in dryer vents causes nearly 3,000 house fires annually, according to the U.S. Fire Administration, clogged vents also trap moisture inside your home instead of venting it outside.
How to Check Your Dryer Vent
- Locate where your vent exits your home (usually an exterior wall)
- Confirm the vent leads outside—not into a crawl space, attic, or basement
- Check that ductwork connections are secure with no gaps or tears
- Remove the exterior vent cover and clear any lint or debris
- Use a dryer vent brush or vacuum to clean the full length of the ductwork
Professional Cleaning If your vent runs longer than 10 feet or has multiple turns, hire a professional to clean it thoroughly. Plan for annual professional cleaning to maintain safety and efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes excessive moisture in the house during the summer months?
High outdoor humidity, air conditioning condensation, poor ventilation, and activities like cooking and showering all contribute to indoor moisture. Without proper ventilation, summer humidity can become trapped in your home.
How do I know if I have a moisture problem?
Common signs include condensation on windows, musty odors, visible mold spots, peeling paint or wallpaper, warped wood, and allergy symptoms that worsen indoors. Check moisture-prone areas, such as bathrooms, basements, and around windows, regularly.
Can I remove mold myself?
You can clean small areas (less than 3 square feet) of surface mold on non-porous materials using soap and water. For larger infestations, mold on porous materials like drywall, or mold resulting from sewage or contaminated water, contact a certified mold remediation professional.
What’s the difference between a dehumidifier and an air conditioner for moisture?
Both remove moisture, but serve different purposes. Air conditioners primarily cool air while removing some humidity. Dehumidifiers focus specifically on moisture removal without significant temperature change. In humid climates, you may need both for optimal comfort and moisture control.
How often should I check for leaks during spring cleaning?
Inspect visible plumbing, windows, and moisture-prone areas at least twice yearly—during spring and fall maintenance. Check areas with a history of problems monthly. Address any issues immediately to prevent water damage.
When to Call Professionals
Some moisture problems require expert intervention:
- Water damage from burst pipes or significant leaks
- Mold covering more than 3 square feet
- Mold in HVAC systems
- Structural damage from long-term moisture exposure
- Persistent moisture issues despite your prevention efforts
Professional water and mold removal specialists have the equipment and training to safely remediate serious problems and prevent future issues.
Your Spring Cleaning Takeaway
By adding moisture prevention techniques into your spring-cleaning tasks you will not only protect your home but also its overall selection. Your moisture inspection should be included in your annual spring-cleaning routine. Moisture prevents you from experiencing excessive water damage and mold by taking very little time to complete inspections while providing you with maximum protection from both. Moisture inspection should be an ongoing practice to prevent costly repairs in the future due to excessive moisture.
Need help with water damage or mold removal? Call 615-385-5300. We provide safe, thorough remediation services to restore your home.