Black mold is very often hidden (under bathtubs, carpets, or floorboards, behind shower walls, etc.) so smell is often the very first sign of it.
The smell of black mold is best described as an “earthy,” damp, or musty smell — a bit like a wet forest, wet clothes, basement, or old home.
But because black mold is usually hidden, this smell is usually not very persistent or always at its “full strength.”
You might get whiffs of that musty smell at various times during the day or night — such as when air drafts inside and outside of the home change pattern or direction, or when a particular room is entered.
If you notice this smell and suspect you have black mold at home (or in the office), the best thing to do is NOT to continue trying to “sniff it out,” but to call a mold inspection, removal, and remediation company.
The reason for this is that the smell of black mold and other types of mold is caused by the presence of potentially quite harmful toxins — called mycotoxins, which are a secondary metabolite produced by mold.
So you want to inhale that smell as little as possible — and that’s not to scare you into thinking the smell is super dangerous short term, but to be safe and give you that related information.
If you continue to inhale or come into contact with black mold over a longer period of time, yes, it can be very harmful.
Also, if you or your family members fall into one of these categories, you may be at an even greater risk of black mold:
- Pregnant
- Nursing
- Elderly
- Infant or child
- Immunocompromised
- Getting or recovering from cancer treatments.
So if you notice even what you suspect is a “black mold smell,” your very best option is to get it confirmed quickly, and then properly removed as fast as possible.
If you or your kids (or grandparents) sleep in a room where the smell of black mold is strong or noticeable, you should move out if at all possible — even to another room in the house.
We offer a Free Environmental Consultation that can help you determine whether the smell you suspect is black mold actually is.
What is Black Mold?
Stachybotrys chartarum, the official name for black mold, is a form of mold that grows best in overly moist, or very humid conditions. Black mold needs more moisture than most It is frequently found in places like basements, bathrooms, and kitchens that have seen water damage or high levels of dampness. The health dangers associated with black mold are well-known, and they include the possibility of neurological disorders, allergic responses, and respiratory troubles.
How Can You Identify Black Mold?
Black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum) can be detected by sight and/or smell, but can only be “officially” deemed black mold by a microbiologist.
Sight:
Black mold shows up on different surfaces as a noticeable dark or greenish-black spots or paste-looking substance. The texture of it might vary between slimy and powdery, depending on its moisture content. It most often appears and grows on substances such as timber, gypsum board, and floor covering where large amounts of water is sitting for a long time — but keep in mind that “large amounts” of water is one thing to you, and quite another to a microscopic mold spore. So even a dripping pipe or leaky bathtub can produce black mold over time.
Smell:
The detection of the scent of black mold is frequently the initial indication of its existence. This particular scent might be characterized as musty, earthy, aged home, damp clothes, or reminiscent of mildew. It is often compared to the odor of decomposing timber or moist, deteriorating foliage (leaves).
What Does Black Mold Smell Like?
Once you are familiar with the characteristics, the odor of black mold becomes easily recognizable. The stench is powerful, bitter, and musty, and it lingers persistently, particularly in poorly ventilated spaces. As we previously mentioned, it has been compared to the smell of rotting wood or the stench of damp, degrading vegetation. The odor is frequently most prominent in confined areas such as basements, attics, or behind walls. If you perceive this scent, it is imperative to do a thorough investigation, since it might be indicative of a substantial mold issue.
What to Do If You Believe You Have Black Mold in Your Home
It is imperative that you act right away if you smell or see evidence of black mold in your home:
- Examine and Identify: Look closely at any spots where you think mold may be growing. Note any locations that have a strong musty stench and keep an eye out for any obvious evidence of mold.
- Contain the Area: Close doors and cover with plastic sheeting to keep mold spores inside. These measures will help keep the afflicted area from spreading.
- Remove the Mold Safely: Protective clothing and common home cleansers can be used to remove small patches of mold. Nonetheless, in order to guarantee complete and secure clearance, large-scale mold development should be managed by experts.
- Handle Moisture Issues: Seal up any leaks or moisture sources in that area that allow mold to develop. To maintain low humidity levels, use dehumidifiers and enhance ventilation.
Book Your Black Mold Removal with Mold Solutions
It might be intimidating to deal with black mold, but you don’t have to do it alone. To arrange your black mold assessment and begin the journey to a mold-free home, get in touch with our experts at Mold Solutions by giving us a call or by filling out a contact form!
