Black Mold

Black mold (also known as toxic black mold) is the name that is commonly used when referring to a type of fungi known as Strachybotrys chartarum (also called Strachybotrys atra). It greenish/black mold that thrives in moist, dark conditions. It belongs to the Stachybotrys family of which there are 50 species. It is found throughout the world. 

Not only is it unsightly and can cause damage to buildings, but it can also cause allergic & toxic health problems in people and their pets.

What health problems does mold cause?

Infants, the elderly and people with a compromised immune system are most at risk although black mold can cause health problems in anyone.

Exposure occurs via inhalation and ingestion. Symptoms can vary depending on a range of factors including the health of individuals the duration of exposure and the number of spores.

Mycotoxins are chemicals released by black mold during metabolism which are toxic to humans and animals. They cause a range of health problems including;

• Headache

• Poor concentration

• Asthma

• Bronchitis

• Wheezing

• Sneezing

• Sore throat

• Pneumonia

• Sinusitis

• Cold/flu like symptoms

• Dermatitis/skin rash

• Bleeding into the lungs

• Eye irritation

• Depressed immune system

• Cancer

 Hypersensitivity/allergy:

• Mold induced hypersensitivity can occur. This is when the body becomes hypersensitive to the mold spores themselves.

Signs of black mold:

Mold lives on cellulose material (such as carpet, wallpaper, dry wall etc) in dark, damp conditions with a relative humidity of 55%. You may notice a dark green/black mold growing in a circular pattern. Common areas affected include the kitchen, laundry and bathroom where humidity is higher.

You may also notice a musty smell on clothes, especially ones that have not been work for a few weeks or months. Left longer, mold may be found growing on clothing, shoes and handbags.

You may not always see black mold if it is well hidden behind calls, in air ducts  etc. Leaking pipes or broken roof tiles may allow moisture in & encourage mold growth without the householder being aware there is a problem.

Black mold removal:

Serious cases of black mold should be left to professional companies specialising in mold removal. People with health problems such as asthma, respiratory disorders, allergies and immunocompromised people should also avoid removing mold.

What you will need:

• Face mask

• Bucket

• Brush

• Sponge

• Rubber gloves

• 500ml spray bottle (if using your own mold remover)

There are various commercial products you can purchase to remove black mold. These should be readily available from your hardware or supermarket. They can be expensive though, so you may wish to try these home made black mold remover recipes first.

Mold remover:

• 1/5th cup of bleach

• 200ml hot water

Mix well into a 500ml spray bottle, spray onto affected area and scrub.

Tips & Safety:

Use a toothbrush for small nooks & crannies.

Always ventilate the room well when applying chemicals & use a mask to avoid inhaling the mold. Test a small patch first for colourfastness. Never ever mix chemicals, especially ammonia & bleach. Toxic fumes will result which can cause death.

When removing black mold, always dampen the area first. If you begin to remove it without dampening it, spores will spread throughout the house. Dampening it will help prevent or reduce this.

Preventing black mold:

If you have had mold in your house it will return. So it is important to locate the source of dampness and fix it.

• Purchase a dehumidifier to remove moisture from the air.

• Apply a paint with a mold retardant in it.

• If you have any leaking pipes or taps, fix them up.

• Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to clean floors and furnishings.

• If you have an exhaust fan in the bathroom or kitchen, use them.

• Increase ventilation. Open windows where possible (but close if it's wet outside and on an evening). Install under floor ventilation.

Also see:

Black mould, Cleaning a burnt pan, Cleaning a sink,  Cleaning grout, Cleaning a laptop screen, Cleaning a microwave, Cleaning granite benchtops, Cleaning stainless steel, Disinfecting kitchen sponges, Environmentally friendly cleaning,  Removing candle wax, Removing grass stains, Removing mould & mildew from walls, Removing red wine stains, Removing water stains from wood, Window condensation