Even the cleanest houses are home to various kinds of surface-damaging bacteria, viruses, fungi, mold, and mildew. Surfaces that include kitchen counters, TV remotes, and bathroom floors can contain high levels of microbial contamination.
When family members touch those surfaces, the transfer of those microbes can begin, leading to cross-contamination. Staphylococcus, salmonella. and E. coli are among the most common pathogens encountered in residential settings, and, regardless of where a contamination originates (e.g. mishandled raw meats, the bathroom, pets or wet basements), can all cause serious illness.
In the meantime, the presence of mold in the home can have negative implications for the structure, a home’s market value, and the well-being of its inhabitants. Exterior surfaces are particularly susceptible to mold,