Black Mould: Why It’s a Hidden Home Hazard and How to Prevent/Solve It

Not just an eyesore.

Always sneezing only when you’re at home? It could be due to black mould.

Scientifically named Stachybotrys chartarum, black mould is a fungus that produces mycotoxins which can cause severe health risks following prolonged exposure.

Image source: The Guardian

In this article, we take a look at some of these health risks, how they differ from common mould, signs, prevention strategies, as well as what to do if you have black mould at home.

Health risks associated with black mould

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Mycotoxins released by black mould are tiny, harmful particles that can irritate your airways when you breathe them in. Over time, this may lead to coughing, wheezing, or that constant “blocked nose” feeling you can’t shake off. Those with asthma or allergies might find their symptoms flaring up more often.

Worse yet, inhalation in the long-term can lead to:

Respiratory issues
Chronic fatigue and headaches
Immune system effects

In short, black mould isn’t something you should ignore if you have it at home.

Signs you may have black mould at home

As its name suggests, black mould is black (or deep greenish-black) in colour. But here’s where it gets a little confusing: other common moulds can also be black in colour.

So, do look out for these nuances:

Black mould	Other common moulds
Deep greenish-black or pure black Slimy to the touch Grows in patches and spreads irregularly Strong, musty odour that lingers and can fill a room	Olive green, white, brown or black ‘Fuzzy’ or powdery Small, circular spots that spread evenly Milder, stale smell that’s noticeable only when you’re close

Location-wise, black mould typically appears in areas that are constantly damp and dark. Usual suspects include cavities behind drywalls (e.g. where your pipes are enclosed), under flooring, near leaky pipes or on your bathroom ceiling.

Peeling paint and persistent dampness could also be indicators of hidden black mould.

Meanwhile, other common moulds can grow in damp but less consistently wet areas.

Black mould prevention tips

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The key to preventing black mould is to keep moisture under control and let your home ‘breathe’.

Here are some things you can put into practice:

Ventilate wet zones (e.g. turn on the exhaust fan after a shower)
Keep humidity in check (e.g. use a dehumidifier)
Fix leaks/damp spots
Keep all areas clean and dry
Use mould-resistant paint and materials
Regularly service your aircon to prevent condensation

What to do if you have black mould at home

But if you already have black mould at home, your next steps will depend on the extent of the infestation.

Small patches may be removed via simple home remedies like vinegar or a baking soda solution. Thereafter, remember to dry and ventilate the area, and re-paint with anti-mould paint where applicable.

Larger infestations, however, will require professional mould removal or cleaning services.

Prevention is better than cure

When it comes to mould, prevention is most certainly more desirable (and much cheaper) than removal. Keep your home clean, dry and well-ventilated. And if you’re renovating, speak with your ID about mould-resistant paint and materials that match the aesthetic you’re going for. Happy home living!