Dangerous Molds?

Dear George,

Are the molds called Aspergillus, Myxomycetes, and Cladosporium dangerous molds? Can they be cleaned out of your home?

Thanks, Christina

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Dear Christina,

There are many varietals of Aspergillus (like Aspergillus candidus, Aspergillus carneus, Aspergillus clavatus, and Aspergillus deflectus). Some are more pathogenic than others. One of the worst is Aspergillus flavus, which produces a type of mycotoxin that is an aflatoxin (a known carcinogen, and known to be the cause of eye, ear, respiratory, throat infections, and more).

Myxomycetes, which are slime molds, can contribute to hay fever and asthma.

Varietals of Cladosporium can cause skin lesions, eye ulceration, mycosis (including onychomycosis, an infection of the nails of the feet or hands) edema, and bronchiospasms; chronic cases may develop pulmonary emphysema.

Take a look at our Mold Glossary for more details.

You can eliminate specific colonies, but no molds can be completely removed. This is because there is always going to be some level of mold spores in the outside air. With excellent filtration, (HEPA filtration, etc.) you can lower the concentration. That is why mold inspectors take outdoor levels of mold as a “control.” It is reasonable to expect your home to have at least the same concentration of mold as the outdoor air. It may sound alarming, but there is a big difference between trace amounts found in ambient air and a mold infestation.

If you would like to schedule a professional mold assessment by Bye Bye Mold™, you can telephone us at 1.800.686.1992 or you can e-mail us via our user-friendly contact form.