Throughout the year, especially within enclosed spaces and during periods of significant humidity changes, moisture levels can increase in residence hall rooms. When excess moisture is present, this can lead to surface mold, particularly around windows and air conditioning units where there is condensation. It should be noted that some amount of mold may always be present in most indoor or outdoor spaces. Dust and dirt can also look like mold sometimes. We are committed to addressing anyone’s concerns. If you see any concerning discoloration:
Read More About Mold & Mildew Prevention
Proper, continued cleaning and moisture control are the best ways to reduce any chance of mold spores growing. Here are some useful tips to help control moisture in your room:
- Wipe down any condensation along the window frame daily.
- When in your room during the heating season, open curtains and blinds during the day to allow the sun to warm the room naturally and prevent air from being trapped against the window. Close them at night to decrease drafts. During the cooling season, do the reverse.
- Avoid fish tanks, plants, humidifiers, and diffusers, which all can contribute to higher humidity/moisture levels in your room.
- Run a fan to help circulate air.
- Keep room door open when possible (and present in room).
- Open a window slightly for short periods of time to allow outside air to circulate.
- Do not place furniture or other items in front of heating and cooling units that can obstruct airflow.
- Do not place potted plants or any other source of moisture on or around heating and cooling units.
- Dry laundry completely before bringing it into your room.
- Empty your trash on a regular basis. Do not let it accumulate in your room.
- Additional tips provided by the UW–Madison department of Environment, Health & Safety can be found in this document on air quality for residence hall rooms.
Reporting a Specific Concern
If you are experiencing any concerns related to your residence hall space, here are some ways you can get them addressed:
- Non-Emergency items that can be followed up within 24 – 48 hours: submit a maintenance request (requests should only be submitted by the resident, not by a family member on their behalf)
- Questions about what is going on in your community or how to access resources: connect with a House Fellow or Residence Life Coordinator in your building
- Urgent items that require immediate (non-medical) assistance: contact your Front Desk or House Fellow On Duty for direction and support in responding to the concern
- Questions about any Housing topic can also be sent through our contact form.