January is the season of fresh starts—and for many homeowners and renters, that means clearing out closets, garages, and basements to start the year off clean.
But as you move that box of old decorations or dig into the back of your closet, you might find something less inspiring: mold.
Winter may feel like the “off-season” for mold, but that’s exactly why it’s sneaky. Decluttering is one of the most common ways people discover mold they didn’t know they had.
Why Winter Mold Stays Hidden Until You Clean
During colder months, we tend to close up our homes to stay warm. That means:
- Less airflow in closets and storage spaces
- Condensation building near windows and walls
- Cardboard boxes and fabric trapping moisture
- Leaks from the attic or roofline going unnoticed
And because many of us only deep-clean or organize once or twice a year, it’s easy for mold to build up behind the scenes.
Where Mold Commonly Hides During Decluttering
Be on the lookout as you sort through:
- Cardboard boxes stored on concrete or in damp closets
- Old shoes, luggage, or clothing stored in closets or under beds
- Holiday decorations kept in attics, basements, or garages
- Plastic bins that weren’t sealed properly
- Attic insulation or rafters that have taken in moisture from roof leaks
- Closets on exterior walls that get cold and trap humidity
Even if mold isn’t visible, a strong musty smell or fuzzy coating on fabric or paper is a red flag.
What to Do If You Find Mold While Decluttering
- Don’t disturb large patches—scrubbing can release spores
- Ventilate the area if possible
- Bag and discard affected items like clothing, paper, or decor
- Avoid bleach on porous surfaces—it doesn’t penetrate deeply enough
- Call a professional to assess and test the space
If you’re unsure whether what you’re seeing is mold, a professional air or surface test can confirm what you’re dealing with.
How EnviroPro 360 Can Help
We work with homeowners, property managers, and renters throughout the Augusta and Aiken areas to uncover and resolve mold issues—even in hard-to-reach or seasonal spaces.
We offer:
- Certified mold and air quality testing
- Thermal moisture detection
- Crawl space, attic, and HVAC inspections
- Post-remediation clearance reports
- Same-day and 24-hour response times
Whether you’re cleaning out a spare room or preparing a property for sale or rent, we can help you be sure your home is truly safe and mold-free.
Give Your Home a Clean Start This Year
Decluttering is more than cosmetic—it’s a chance to spot issues before they get worse. Don’t let hidden mold ruin your fresh start.
Call EnviroPro 360 for a mold inspection today and breathe easier in 2026.
