Cleaning mould: SIX types of harmful mould people find at home
MOULD is a common occurrence in homes most people will find they have to deal with at some point in their lives. But there are several types, and here Express.co.uk explains six fog them.
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Mould has a nasty habit of appearing in areas people want to keep the cleanest, such as in kitchens or bathrooms. Growths can have a range of damaging effects when it enters the respiratory system. Any growing cultures can also negatively impact property sales, so people should learn how to identify different types.
Aspergillus
Aspergillus has 185 separate species which come in many different colours.
They tend to develop similarly, however, with many thick, ripple-like layers per bloom.
The mould can become toxigenic and cause asthma attacks, lung infections, or develop aflatoxins, a type of carcinogen.
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Penicillin
Penicillin is another allergen with a more uniform appearance.
The mould develops as a blue or green furry bloom around water damage, specifically on carpets or wallpapers.
While penicillin became the first antibiotic, it causes several respiratory issues in its mould form.
Black mould
Black mould is one of the most common growths at home, and it thrives in rooms high in moisture.
Otherwise known as Stachybotrys, black mould is an allergen that grows on wood, cardboard, and paper.
The mould also produces mycotoxins which can cause unpleasant symptoms such as sinusitis, fatigue, aches and pains, and even burning sensations.
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Alternaria
Alternaria is perhaps the most common of household mould growths.
The mould presents in green and brown streaks and dots on moisture-heavy surfaces and also indicates water damage.
Alternaria can spread quickly and causes respiratory issues with asthma-like symptoms.
Fusarium
Many types of mould thrive in humid and moist conditions, but not fusarium.
Fusarium can grow in cold temperatures and presents with a pinkish hue on food, carpeting and other fabrics or materials.
Again, it causes allergic reactions, but prolonged exposure can cause severe conditions such as brain abscesses or bone infections.