Study Shows Moldy Odor Along Baseboards Causes Allergy Symptoms in Children

12 Oct 2009 05:55:33

Craig Whittaker

A study of 400 Swedish children by the Department of Physics and Indoor Environment at the Research Institute of Sweden has found that a moldy odor along the baseboards in a home is associated with increased risk for allergy symptoms. The risk was even higher, with three out of four children experiencing allergic health outcomes, when the moldy baseboard odor was accompanied by a low fresh air ventilation rate in the home.

The researchers also found that a moldy odor at the baseboard can be an indication of a hidden moisture problem inside an exterior wall or underneath the home in the foundation.

The study, which was published in the June 2009 issue of Indoor Air, concluded that homes with moldy odor at the baseboard need appropriate remediation as allergies in children with poorly ventilated and damp houses are an increasing problem.