Introduction

Sorting through your belongings after mold exposure is often one of the most emotionally and logistically difficult steps in recovery. The process can feel overwhelming—but using a clear decision-making system helps bring focus, peace of mind, and momentum.

In this lesson, you’ll learn how to evaluate each item using a step-by-step filter, apply a practical cleaning matrix, and organize your decisions with clarity and confidence.

Step 1: Use a Three-Part Filter to Evaluate Each Item

Apply this simple triage system to each item:

1. Level of Contamination

• Condition 1: Stored in a closed space, no known exposure – minimal concern
• Condition 2: Exposed to contaminated air – likely a candidate for cleaning
• Condition 3: Visible mold or musty odor – consider discarding

2. Material Type

• Non-porous: Glass, metal, ceramic – easy to clean
• Semi-porous: Finished wood, leather – may be cleanable
• Porous: Fabric, cardboard, unsealed wood – difficult to clean
• Cushioned porous: Pillows, upholstery, mattresses – usually not salvageable

3. Value to You

• Low value: Easily replaced
• High value: Costly or hard to replace
• Sentimental value: Emotionally meaningful or irreplaceable

Tip: If an item includes both porous and non-porous materials, classify it based on the most porous component.

Step 2: Use the Contents Cleaning Matrix

This simple decision matrix helps you make quick, confident choices:

Visual Labeling System:

• 🟢 Green: Keep and clean now
• 🟡 Yellow: Clean and store for later
• 🔴 Red: Discard

Use sticky notes or color-coded tape to help visually organize your sorting process.

Step 3: Apply the Keep–Store–Discard System

🟢 Keep and Clean Now

• Non-porous or washable items without visible mold
• Essential daily-use items (cookware, clothing, electronics)

🟡 Store for Later Evaluation

• Semi-porous or sentimental items that cause mild reactions or uncertainty
• Clean these first, then seal in labeled bins and store in a dry, low-humidity location
• Reintroduce one at a time once your health and environment stabilize

🔴 Let Go Without Guilt

• Cushioned porous items with visible mold or strong odor
• Fabrics, paper goods, or porous materials that cause symptoms after cleaning
• Any item you’re afraid to use or feel anxious about keeping

Reminder: Letting go is not a failure—it’s an act of self-protection and healing.

Step 4: Organize and Track Your Progress

Use the following tools to make the process easier and more organized:

• Colored Tags or Tape: Mark items clearly using your red-yellow-green system
• Digital Inventory: Keep a list of stored or discarded items (this can also help with insurance claims or replacements)
• Testing (Optional): If unsure about a high-value item, you may consider ERMI, HERTSMI-2, or mycotoxin testing—but keep in mind this can be expensive, and your symptoms are often the best guide

Pro Tip: Don’t do it all at once. Go room by room or box by box. Take breaks, drink water, and pace yourself.

Final Thoughts

This is more than just a cleaning step—it’s an emotional process. It’s completely normal to feel sadness, frustration, or grief as you part with belongings. But remember: letting go creates space for healing.

The things that matter most—your health, your peace, your future—aren’t stored in objects. They’re in the life you’re rebuilding, one decision at a time.