Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or a long vacation, the last thing you want to come home to is a musty, mold-infested house. Mold is the ultimate unwanted guest—sneaky, stubborn, and thriving in unoccupied houses that are left closed up for long stretches of time. That’s why it’s essential to prepare your home before you go, to prevent mold while away from home and keep things fresh for your return. We’ve put together this checklist to make sure you can fully on vacation without worrying about what’s brewing back home!
1. Inspect for Leaks to Prevent Mold While Away from Home
Mold’s favorite friend is moisture, and it doesn’t take much—just a tiny leak or drip that’s left unchecked can lead to a big, musty mess by the time you get back. Go through your house and inspect key areas for leaks: under sinks, around the toilets, near water heaters, and even the attic or basement if you have one. Look for any signs of dampness, staining, or musty odors that might suggest hidden water. Catching a leak early means you can prevent mold while away from home.
If you’re not sure or have areas you can’t easily check yourself, it might be worth calling a plumber or handyman to take a quick look. A small fix now could save you a lot of hassle later.
Read more: Why Ignoring Water Leaks Could Drain Your Wallet
2. Set Your Thermostat for Mold Prevention While on Vacation
Setting your thermostat to the right temperature is one of the easiest ways to keep mold out. Mold likes warm, humid air, so ideally, you’ll want to keep the temperature below 77°F (25°C) to discourage any growth. If you have a smart thermostat, this becomes even easier since you can adjust temperatures remotely.
Aim for a temperature that keeps the house dry without overworking your HVAC system—around 72°F is a good starting point for moderate climates. If your thermostat has a humidity control option, even better. Keeping humidity levels below 60% is a fantastic mold prevention tactic while on vacation.
3. Keep Air Circulating in an Unoccupied House
Mold doesn’t like fresh air, so keep it circulating. Set ceiling fans to run on low, or use the circulation setting on your HVAC system to keep the air moving. An unoccupied house doesn’t have people moving around, so still air can make it easier for mold spores to settle and grow.
For even more protection, open up closet doors and cabinets so air can flow into those typically closed-off spaces. This is especially important in bathrooms and laundry rooms where moisture tends to hang around.
4. Clean and Dry Problem Areas
Give high-moisture areas a good cleaning before you leave. Mold loves bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms, so focus your efforts there. Scrub away any existing mildew, wipe down sinks and countertops, and make sure everything is dry. Pay extra attention to the shower and under-sink cabinets, where water can linger in tiny nooks and crannies.
Consider using a mold-resistant cleaner for added protection. This way, you’re creating a barrier against mold in the spots it usually loves best.
5. Empty and Clean Drains Keep Your House from Being Musty
An often-overlooked tip to prevent mold while away from home is to flush out your drains. Kitchen and bathroom drains can trap debris and hold a small amount of water, which creates an inviting environment for mold.
Clear the drains of any gunk, and then pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down each one. After a few minutes, flush it with hot water. For extra mold prevention, a splash of disinfectant can help clear away any lingering residues. This little step can also keep your house from being musty when you get back.
6. Take Out the Trash
It may sound simple, but don’t forget to take out all the trash and empty the recycling bins. Anything left behind, from food scraps to paper products, can start to decompose and attract pests or mold. Give your trash cans a quick wipe-down with a disinfectant spray for good measure.
If you compost, make sure that bin is also cleaned out and moved to a safe spot outside. You don’t want to come home to a moldy, smelly kitchen!
7. Open Curtains and Blinds to Let Light In
Letting natural sunlight into your home is a great way to keep mold at bay. Sunlight is a natural mold prevention, and a bit of light can help keep an unoccupied house from feeling too closed up and stale. Before you leave, open the curtains and blinds in the main living areas to allow sunlight in. This is particularly helpful in any areas that might feel damp or musty.
However, balance this with home security—ground-level windows should be adjusted to let in light without giving passersby a full view of your home.
8. Ensure Gutters and Downspouts Are Clear
Exterior upkeep also plays a role in mold prevention. Clogged gutters and downspouts can lead to water pooling around your home’s foundation, which creates moisture problems inside, especially in basements or crawl spaces. (Check out this simple how to clean gutter guide from Home Depot.)
Take a few minutes to make sure your gutters and downspouts are clear of leaves and debris, and redirect any downspouts to flow away from your home. This step alone can help you avoid mold growth on a larger scale.
9. Consider Using Desiccant Packs
For extra protection in specific areas, consider using desiccant packs or moisture-absorbing products. These little packs work wonders in closets, bathrooms, and storage areas, absorbing any excess humidity while you’re gone. Serious Eats recommends you keep them in your kitchen.
You can pick up reusable desiccants that can be dried out and reused, making them a low-cost, effective tool to keep your house from being musty after a long vacation.
10. Arrange for a House Check
If you’re going to be gone for more than a week, having someone check on your home can be a game-changer. Ask a friend or neighbor to stop by to make sure there aren’t any leaks or unexpected moisture issues. Show them where to look and what to check to help catch anything that could lead to mold if left unattended.
This extra step provides peace of mind and could prevent a small issue from turning into a big problem by the time you return.
Keep Mold Out and Your Home Fresh While On Vacation
No one wants to come home from a relaxing vacation to find that mold has moved in. By following these easy steps, you can prevent mold while away from home and keep your space as fresh as you left it. With a little planning and a few proactive measures, you’ll be able to keep your house from being musty and ensure a clean, welcoming space when you return.
And remember, if you ever need professional help with mold prevention or remediation, Sapphire Restoration is just a call away. We’re here to provide expert assistance and make sure your home stays safe, clean, and mold-free. Have a great vacation, and come back to a home that feels like home—without any unexpected guests!