The No. 1 Mistake That Leads To Mold Growth, From A Functional MD

You can find all of her tried-and-true tips here, but below, Shippy shares the No. 1 mistake people make that leads to mold growth.

Short answer? Take a peek at your bathroom. Now, it's not surprising that the bathroom is a potential hot spot for mold, thanks to increased levels of humidity from the shower's steam. However, where, exactly, that mold grows might shock you: According to Shippy, "Do not put wallpaper in the bathroom. That's just a place to collect humidity and cause problems there."

If you already have wallpaper in your bathroom, not to worry; Shippy simply suggests being extra vigilant about reducing excess moisture in the area. "Definitely put moisture detectors in so that you know if there's been a slow leak in a cabinet," she suggests. In terms of product recommendations, she prefers the Govee Wi-Fi Water Sensors, which you can monitor from your phone while you're away.

If you're redecorating your home, you may want to think twice before putting wallpaper in your bathroom, as it yields a higher potential for mold growth. And if your walls are already adorned, just be sure to keep an eye on excess moisture. For more tips on protecting yourself from mold exposure, make sure to tune in to the full episode on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, or check out the video below!