Even though you are dealing with a small area of mold or mildew, personal safety is always a priority. Mold spores, when disturbed, can become airborne and may cause irritation to the eyes, lungs, and skin — especially for individuals who are sensitive or have underlying health conditions.

Wearing the right personal protective equipment (PPE) creates a simple but effective barrier between you and any potentially harmful exposure during the cleaning process. It also helps prevent spores from spreading to other areas of your home through your clothing or body.

For small surface cleaning projects, recommended PPE includes:

• N-95 or better-rated respirator (disposable or reusable)
• Safety goggles to protect your eyes from spores and cleaning agents
• Non-porous gloves (like nitrile or rubber gloves)
• Disposable coveralls or older clothing that can be immediately washed or discarded after cleaning

Taking a few minutes to properly suit up can significantly reduce exposure and keep you safer throughout the project. It’s an easy and worthwhile step.