Katrina Rosales
Incense is commonly used to mask unwanted household smells, such as mould or mildew. While incense can be effective in covering up mouldy odours, it does not kill mould. To get rid of mould, you can use natural methods such as vinegar or vodka, or commercial mould-killing solutions. Keeping your home dry is also important, as mould thrives in warm, humid areas.
Does incense kill mold?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Incense as an air purifier | Burning incense sticks and cones are a great way to cut down on airborne viruses and harmful pollutants or dust that may contribute to allergies. |
| Incense as a mold killer | There is no evidence that incense kills mold. |
| Natural mold killers | Natural methods such as vinegar and vodka can be used to kill mold. |
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What You'll Learn
Incense as an air purifier
While incense is often used to mask unwanted household smells, it can also be used to purify indoor air. Burning incense is an easy, quick, and accessible way to shield indoor air from displeasing household odors, such as those from cooking, pets, or damp clothes. The good aromas generated from incense sticks have been shown to raise serotonin in the brain, improve your mood, energize the senses, and release an earthy scent in the room.
Indoor air pollution can be up to 10 times worse than outdoor air pollution. However, burning incense sticks and cones are a great way to cut down on airborne viruses, harmful pollutants, or dust that may contribute to allergies. The essential oils and herbs used to make incense, such as mullein and sage, contain antibacterial properties and are known to help people with allergies and asthma.
It is important to note that not all incense sticks are created equal. Low-quality incense sticks available on the market consist of harmful toxins and are considered pollutants. They are harmful to your health and can cause lung issues if inhaled over a long period. Thus, choosing an all-natural, high-quality incense is essential for effective air purification.
To effectively address mold, it is important to identify and address the source of the problem. Mold thrives in warm and humid environments, so keeping your home dry can help prevent its growth. For small mold problems, natural cleaners like plain white vinegar or cheap vodka can be effective. Simply spritz the affected areas, let the liquid work its magic, and then wipe away the mold. If the mold problem is more extensive, you may need to consider more intensive solutions, such as applying a mold-killing solution to the affected areas or replacing carpets or other affected materials.
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Natural methods of mould removal
Incense only masks mildew smells and does not kill mould. There are, however, several natural methods for removing mould.
Firstly, prevention is better than cure, so ensure your home is well-ventilated, particularly rooms with water sources, such as the bathroom and kitchen. Open the blinds, windows, and doors to let in sunlight and fresh air. Keep your home well-ventilated after periods of rainfall or high humidity.
It is also important to direct water away from your home and to check for leaks and water flow during heavy rainfall. Ensure that your drainage is free-flowing by regularly checking and cleaning your gutters, pipes, and trenches. Remove any blockages caused by leaves and other debris.
In addition to the above, you should dry wet areas immediately and clean indoor plants regularly by dusting the leaves and removing any standing water. You can also introduce mould-resistant products into your home, such as treated paints and building materials, and non-organic fabrics.
If you already have mould, there are natural remedies to remove it. Baking soda, for example, has been used to cure mould for generations. Its pH level of 8-8.1 is too high for mould to thrive, making it a natural disinfectant. To use baking soda, add 1/4 teaspoon to 2 cups of water, pour the solution into a spray bottle, and spritz the mouldy area. Then, scrub the area with a brush, rinse, and spray again with the solution to prevent mould from returning. This method is safe for your family and pets and will not damage your property.
Another natural mould-removing solution is a mixture of 3 drops of oil of cloves in 5 cups of water. Spray this mixture onto fabrics and leave them to dry completely.
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Health risks of mould
Mould in the home can have serious health implications for tenants, and in some cases, it can even be fatal. It is important to identify and address the presence of mould to prevent adverse health effects.
Mould is commonly found in areas with high moisture levels, such as bathrooms and kitchens. It can be caused by everyday activities that create excess moisture, including showering, cooking, and drying laundry indoors. Leaky pipes or gutters, as well as poor insulation, can also contribute to the problem. When left untreated, mould can lead to respiratory illnesses, infections, allergies, and asthma. The spores released by mould can be inhaled or touched, triggering allergic reactions such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rashes. Additionally, mould can cause asthma attacks, coughing, wheezing, and breathlessness.
Certain individuals are more vulnerable to the health impacts of mould. These include children, the elderly, babies, and people with pre-existing respiratory illnesses or skin problems. However, everyone is susceptible to the potential health risks associated with mould exposure. It is crucial to address mould issues promptly and effectively to minimise these health hazards.
To mitigate the health risks associated with mould, it is essential to identify and address the source of moisture accumulation. This may involve improving ventilation, such as opening windows or using extractor fans, particularly when cooking or showering. Regular cleaning and wiping down surfaces can also help control moisture levels. In some cases, it may be necessary to seek professional assistance to address the underlying causes of mould growth and ensure the safety and well-being of occupants.
Landlords have a responsibility to address damp and mould issues within their properties promptly. Awaab's Law, passed in July 2023, underscores the importance of this responsibility. It mandates landlords to address damp and mould hazards that pose significant harm to tenants within specified time frames. Failure to comply can result in legal consequences, including prosecution or financial penalties.
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Health risks of low-quality incense
Burning incense has been a part of many cultures for hygienic and spiritual purposes. However, recent studies have revealed potential health risks associated with incense use, particularly low-quality incense. Here are some of the health risks associated with low-quality incense:
Respiratory Issues: Incense smoke contains small, inhalable particulate matter, including fine and ultrafine particles. These particles can be deposited in the respiratory tract and lungs, leading to respiratory diseases. The particulate matter in incense smoke can include toxic and carcinogenic compounds, which have been linked to an increased risk of respiratory issues such as asthma and respiratory allergies.
Cardiovascular Risks: In addition to respiratory concerns, incense smoke has been associated with an increased risk of heart disease. The particulate matter and toxic compounds in incense smoke may affect heart tissues, contribute to inflammation, and deposit harmful substances in the body.
Neurological Effects: Recent studies have suggested that long-term exposure to incense smoke may have negative effects on brain health, particularly in older adults. These effects include potential delays in cognitive performance and decreased brain connectivity. While the precise mechanisms behind these associations are not yet fully understood, they highlight the potential risks of prolonged incense use.
Cancer Risk: The particulate matter in incense smoke has been found to contain carcinogens, which are substances that can cause cancer. A 2021 study confirmed the presence of carcinogenic compounds in incense emissions. Additionally, research has indicated an association between incense use and a higher risk of certain types of cancer, particularly upper respiratory tract and lung carcinomas.
Prenatal and Infant Health: Some studies have suggested that exposure to incense burning during pregnancy may negatively impact infant health. There have been associations between prenatal incense exposure and early-onset hyperactive behaviours in preschoolers, as well as delayed gross motor milestone achievement in infants. Additionally, incense burning has been linked to lower birth weights in boys and smaller head circumferences.
It is important to note that the health risks associated with incense vary depending on the quality and composition of the incense, the frequency of use, and the ventilation of the space where it is burned. To minimise potential risks, it is recommended to use incense sparingly, ensure proper ventilation, and choose high-quality incense products with lower levels of toxic compounds.
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Landlord responsibilities regarding mould
While landlord responsibilities regarding mould are not clearly defined in building codes, ordinances, statutes, or regulations, landlords are generally responsible for providing safe and habitable housing for tenants. This includes maintaining proper ventilation systems and fixing issues such as leaking pipes, windows, and roofs, which are common causes of mould.
In some states, such as Virginia, maintaining a mould-free premises is explicitly part of a landlord's duty to provide habitable housing. Additionally, landlords can be held responsible for mould problems even in the absence of specific mould laws in certain states or cities. For example, contractual provisions addressing plumbing or ventilation defects that contribute to mould growth are enforceable, and landlords can be liable for breach of contract if they fail to address these issues.
If mould is discovered in a rental unit, landlords should immediately remediate the issue. They are legally responsible for removing the mould and reimbursing tenants for any extra costs incurred. To avoid liability for damages, landlords should comply with disclosure rules, provide tenants with a mould disclosure statement, and obtain written acknowledgment of receipt from tenants.
Tenants also have responsibilities to maintain their rental units and practice good housekeeping, such as keeping the property clean and well-ventilated. If mould growth is due to a tenant's negligence, such as failing to report water damage or maintain necessary cleanliness, the landlord may not be held liable. In such cases, renters' insurance may cover consultation with a mould specialist and mould removal.
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Frequently asked questions
No, incense does not kill mold. However, burning incense can be an effective way to shield indoor air from displeasing household odors, such as mold.
Mold grows in warm, humid areas, such as bathrooms or damp basements. To prevent mold from forming, keep your home dry.
There are several natural methods to get rid of mold. For example, you can fill a spray bottle with plain white vinegar and spritz it directly on moldy spots. Let the vinegar sit for a while, and then wipe away the mold.
Another way to get rid of mold is to use vodka. Simply pour vodka into a spray bottle and spritz it directly on the mold. Allow the vodka to work its magic, and then use a rag or sponge to wipe away the mold.
