One of the first things you should check in the prevention and cleanup of toxic black mold is the humidity level of the air within all areas of your home. I have found this high-quality hygrometer or moisture meter that will give you accurate readouts and not but your budget. There are several models and each has its own features.

The hygrometers are sold by Indoor Health Products and they are models 810 or 811. There are many other suppliers that handle these units as well so look around.

Some of the features of these hygrometers include:

• LCD readouts.
  
• Digital operation.
• Keeps history of high and low ranges of humidity until you hit reset button.
• The 811 model has very large LCD readout and is readable from up to 45 feet away.
• Celsius or Fahrenheit readout on temperature
• Accurate to within 3 degrees F + -
• Can be wall mounted.
• Usable right out of the box. No calibration required.
• Alarm option available
• Outdoor air sensor and readout available.
• 90 day money-back guarantee
• One year warranty
• Battery is included
• Free shipping
• Cost? $18.99 for the 810 and $29.99 for the 811.

Several years ago I purchased a mechanical humidistat for about $169. These units are far superior to that, plus more accurate.

If you suspect you have a black mold issue, this hygrometer would be one of the first steps to eliminating your problem by determining where you high humidity areas exist within your home. Once you find the problems areas you should setup a good quality dehumidifier and make sure it gets pumped to a drain line or directly outdoors.