Mold is a common, visible form of fungus that quietly lurks in our home’s walls, bathrooms, window sills, and basements. It is not just an aesthetic issue — in certain cases, it can cause allergies, difficulty breathing, asthma, and other serious health problems. Mold is especially dangerous for children, people with allergies, and those with compromised immune systems.
What is mold and where does it grow?
Mold fungus thrives in damp and poorly ventilated environments. It is especially common in areas that come into contact with water, which is why high humidity often leads to mold growth. For example, around pipes or in hidden areas beneath wall coverings (like wallpaper). It is also commonly found in homes where there are leaks or that have been flooded at least once
It’s true that many types of mold are harmless and even used in medicine- for example, the antibiotic penicillin was first derived from mold. However, some types, especially black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum), can cause symptoms such as: watery eyes, runny nose, itchy eyes, coughing, respiratory irritation, and worsening of asthma. With long-term exposure, it may also lead to mood disorders, depression, stress, anxiety, and changes in the immune system.
“Mold exposure can cause inflammation in any part of the respiratory tract. In patients with asthma or allergies, the reaction can be particularly severe,” says Dr. Nassikas, Associate Professor at Harvard Medical School. According to studies, children living in mold-affected environments have a significantly higher risk — 11% — of developing asthma, compared to 7% in children living in mold-free homes.
How can we identify mold fungus in the home?
Mold often has a specific, unpleasant odor. Visually, it may appear as green, black, or gray spots. The most common areas include places like the bathroom, window corners, rubber seals on refrigerator doors, and around air conditioners. If you notice the smell but can’t see any mold, try checking hidden areas such as behind wall coverings, behind furniture, or in corners.
To safely and effectively remove mold, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers the following recommendations:
To remove small areas of mold, use: regular soap and water, or 1 cup of laundry detergent (chlorine bleach) diluted in 4 liters of water.
It is important to follow safety precautions when using the solution:
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Never mix chlorine bleach with ammonia or other cleaning chemicals, as this produces toxic fumes.
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Wear rubber gloves, protective goggles, and a mask.
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Ventilate the room by opening windows and, if possible, use ventilation.
If the mold is extensive or the source of the problem is systemic (for example, flooding or a pipe leak), it is best to seek help from certified professionals.
According to the recommendation of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
To prevent mold growth, it is necessary to keep humidity levels below 50%, which can be achieved by using an air conditioner or a dehumidifier. Proper air circulation is essential — exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathrooms should be connected to outdoor ventilation, and the dryer from the washing machine should vent air outside.
In case of leaks in the roof, walls, or pipes, timely repairs are necessary. After flooding, the house should be completely dried within 24–48 hours. It is recommended to use mold-resistant additives in paints and to clean the bathroom regularly with disinfectants.
Additionally, wet carpets and furniture that cannot be dried quickly should be removed or replaced. The use of carpet is not recommended in damp areas, such as basements and bathrooms.
Mold may begin as a small, unnoticeable problem, but over time it can become a serious health hazard. Timely detection, proper removal, and prevention are essential for everyone’s health.
Source:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
