There are many different types of mold, and some species seem to prefer indoor environments. Unfortunately, breathing in mold spores and mildew can lead to respiratory problems or allergies. As such, getting rid of mold is a top priority.
In this article, we’ll review some of the most common types of household mold to discover what they look like, where they’re typically found, and how to destroy mold spores before they spread.
This information could help you keep yourself and your household safe from the slow-acting dangers of mold.
1. Aspergillus
Mold is often associated with basements, bathrooms, and other areas of a home that are typically damp or dark. However, mold can grow in all sorts of unexpected places that are even the tiniest bit damp. A closet is just one example.
If you’ve ever wondered, “What’s up with the mold in my closet?” then you may be wondering why you’re dealing with an Aspergillus mold. There are actually over 100 distinct species belonging to this type of mold.
Identifying Aspergillus can be tricky. It comes in nearly all colors, including white, yellow, green, and dark brown. This mold tends to grow in chain-like patterns, spreading slowly across surfaces.
Unfortunately, Aspergillus can be particularly toxic, especially when allowed to grow and proliferate. If you spot any strange white or colored dots on clothing, shoes, ceilings, or walls you may want to begin considering mold remediation services.
2. Stachybotrys
If you’ve ever heard the term “black mold”, then you may already be somewhat familiar with Stachybotrys. This is perhaps the most famous type of household mold and one of the most toxic as well.
As its colloquial nickname suggests, this type of mold grows in large black clusters. It tends to grow in moist, humid environments and grow on wood, tile, stone, and fabric. Exposure to Stachybotrys can lead to severe sinus and respiratory issues.
When left untreated, this type of mold infestation can also contribute to recurrent headaches, nose bleeds, and fever.
3. Cladosporium
This mold is one of the most prevalent. This may have something to do with the fact that it can grow in both warm and cold environments. It’s often found in fabrics and may only become noticeable due to it’s gray and whitish coloration.
Well, that and it also produces sinus allergies in those who happen to breathe it in. If you come into contact with Cladosporium, you may experience throat soreness, eye irritation, or sneezing fits.
4. Acremonium
Acremonium typically has a white or pink appearance and can be quite powdery. It tends to grow in areas that are often wet or moist. This includes condensation drip pans, the inside of dehumidifiers, and the linings of windows.
While this type of mold may appear unassuming and relatively safe, it’s one of the most dangerous molds to inhale or contact. Exposure to Acremonium can lead to serious health problems, including immune system disorders.
5. Mucor
Mucor spores appear as tiny white papilla-like fingers that often cover in the inside of HVAC systems and water ducts. These tiny spores grow to form thick patch-like groups that can easily spread via the air.
While this type of mold may look fragile and relatively harmless, it can cause severe upper respiratory issues. Regular HVAC maintenance and cleaning, alongside annual mold evaluations, can help prevent this mold.
Individuals with prolonged exposure to Mucor molds can develop mucormycosis. This is a condition that can affect the skin, respiratory system, and even the brain. As such, it’s crucial to always stay vigilant against household mold.
6. Trichoderma
Trichoderma is an allergenic mold that is relatively common. It can be found in homes and inside our bodies, especially in individuals with trichomonosis. But Trichoderma affects the skin and nails in particular.
It can be white or dark green and it often grows in clusters that tend to build upon each other as a kind of wall. This mold can grow inside of a carpet, behind wallpaper, or inside of walls. This makes it a particularly challenging mold to get rid of.
7. Alternaria
This mold is quite similar in appearance to Stachybotrys and Aureobasidium. It’s most often noticed due to its dark green, brown, and black coloration. It is most commonly found in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
Though it’s not recommended that you touch any of these molds with your bare hands, some have noted that Alternaria has a velvet-like texture. This could make it easier to identify, though you’ll likely need heavy-duty antifungals to get rid of it.
8. Fusarium
Most types of mold require warm, dark, and damp conditions to flourish. Not Fusarium. This pinkish mold can thrive in cold temperatures, as long as it also has a source of moisture.
It often grows in cloth materials like carpeting, drapes, and upholstered furniture. When left to continue growing, it can cause both external fungal infections (the hair, skin, and nails) and internal respiratory infections (sore throat, coughing).
9. Chaetomium
If your roof has ever suffered massive leaks or if your upstairs bathroom has overflowed, you likely understand the scramble to dry your walls and ceilings as quickly as possible.
Unfortunately, even the most effective dehumidifiers and fans can take too long to remove moisture from these components. This can ensure the eventual growth of Chaetomium, a type of mold that tends to live in water-damaged households.
While this type of mold begins life looking very similar to mucor, it eventually darkens. If allowed, it can become a black stain that contributes to fungal infections of the skin or fingernails.
10. Aureobasidium
Have you seen the inside of an old, abandoned building and noticed that the walls looked like they were streaked with dirt? Damp conditions and decay are a wonderful way to welcome Aureobasidium into the mix, and this mold is quite distinctive.
Aureobasidium tends to grow as patches of dark green, black, or even brown mold. It produces dark spore centers that spread outward in a film-like fashion before establishing other centers.
This can give window frames, walls, and ceilings a dirtied appearance. Contact with this mold can result in irritation of the eyes, fingernails, hair, or skin. As such, it’s crucial to eradicate this mold as soon as it appears.
Avoid These Different Types of Mold
If you’re familiar with the different types of mold found in the home, you have a better chance at spotting spores and getting rid of them before they become a problem.
Mold tends to favor dark, damp places and it can grow on almost any surface. Be sure to keep your home and household safe and clean by keeping an eye out for these common types of mold.
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