Geez, Missy, I didn't even answer your question--no mold growth at all with this cheese, and I've never had to wash down at all--surprising, because I have had to do that with most of my cheeses. All were caved at about 52 degrees, along with 30 other varieties. I do put the white and blue molded cheeses in containers, which helps. Still, many of the others sprout mold sooner or later--but not this one.