It doesn't matter if it's green or black, any color mold has got to go
Green mold and black mold both pose health risks to your home, while green mold comes from Penicillium and black mold from Stachybotrys.
Both mold types can trigger allergies and asthma in your household, and both can produce toxic mycotoxins that harm your health over time.
Your choice between DIY removal or professional help depends on the size of the infestation, the location, and your health sensitivities to mold.
Hiring a local mold inspection professional provides clear answers about what you're dealing with, helping you plan safe and effective removal for your home.
If it's fuzzy and green, it's harmless, right? Maybe not. While people often assume that black mold is the dangerous one, all types of mold can be hazardous to your health. Read on to learn more about green mold vs. black mold, and what to do if you see anything growing in your home.
Color is just one obvious difference between black and green mold. The molds usually come from different species and prefer different growth media.
| Type of Difference | Green Mold | Black Mold |
|---|---|---|
| Species | Penicillium | Stachybotrys |
| Growth Habitats | Food, walls, carpets | Food, wood, wet areas |
| Health Risk | Asthma, allergies | Asthma, allergies |
| Toxicity | Can be toxic | Usually toxic |
| Removal Methods | Varies | Varies |
A notable difference between green and black molds is the species of mold. Green molds are usually from the following genus:
Penicillium
Cladosporium
Aspergillus
Black molds are often from the following genus:
Stachybotrys
Alternaria
Cladosporium
Aspergillus
Note that the last two genus of both green and black mold are the same. That's because there are numerous species within each genus, and the color of each one may be different. It's also worth noting that a single species of mold may have different colors depending on where it's growing.
When people mention black mold, they are most likely talking about Stachybotrys chartarum, which is known for its toxicity. Stachybotrys chartarum can be greenish or black in color, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While it may be the most famous black mold, it's not the only type of black mold.
Everyone has their preferences, and mold is no exception. Some types of mold thrive on foods, including starchy items like bread. Molds in the Penicillium genus prefer to grow in cool conditions, such as soil, while Aspergillus niger, another type of black mold, often grows on the skins of fruits and vegetables.
Stachybotrys chartarum thrives in habitats with a high cellulose content, such as wood, paper, and gypsum board. Basically, the structure of many modern homes is an ideal habitat for Stachybotrys chartarum.
Molds of all types and colors can make people sick. Some people are allergic to mold and will have a reaction if they come into contact with mold or mold spores. Allergic reactions to any type of mold can include sneezing, watery eyes and a runny nose. Some allergic people develop a skin rash if they touch mold.
If you have asthma and a mold allergy, exposure to black or green mold can trigger an asthma attack.
Even if you aren't allergic to mold, you may experience some health effects if exposed to it, as mold is also an irritant. Green or black mold can irritate your skin, nose, throat, lungs, or eyes, triggering symptoms that may look like an allergic reaction.
For people who are immunocompromised, or who have a chronic respiratory disease, exposure to mold can lead to infection. A mold in the Aspergillus genus is responsible for infections in susceptible individuals. Mold infections are very rare, but can be life-threatening.
Some types of mold produce toxins, called mycotoxins. Mycotoxins are a type of poison that can cause harm if you inhale, eat or touch them. Long-term exposure to mycotoxins can increase cancer risk.
Black mold gets a bad rap regarding mycotoxins, but it's not the only type of mold that can be toxic. Green molds can also produce mycotoxins. No matter the color of the mold, act with care if you see any growing in your home.
How you remove mold depends on the size of the infestation. The first step may be to hire a local mold inspection company to examine your home and determine the type of mold you have.
An inspector can recommend how to proceed, whether you can tackle the problem yourself or need mold remediation. If it's okay to remove the mold on your own, wear eye protection, a mask, and gloves as you work, and be careful not to mix chemicals, such as bleach and vinegar, during the removal process.
I would recommend this company to anyone! He showed up on time, was friendly, completed a very difficult repair on our dryer vent cover, was responsive, and pricing was extremely fair and competitive. I would have him back to do any of our repairs or cleanings without hesitation!
U.S.A. Dryer Vent, LLCThe technician was very professional and friendly. He answered all my questions and was very thorough. He left the fireplace area very clean . He inspected from the roof and advised me as to other work that might need to be done. There was no pressure there. I was very satisfied with the...
Supreme brick & chimneyAce Fireplace Services came to the rescue for my chimney repair. They were quick to pinpoint the issue and worked their magic to fix it. My chimney is now in excellent shape, and I'm a satisfied customer.
Ace Fireplace ServicesProfessionalism, quality, and affordability - Custom Paint Jobs LLC checks all the boxes.
Custom Paint Jobs, LLCOn time, clean and finished fast. Windows seem sturdy and the finish is good. Caulking was done with no smudges. Would recommend.
Window Depot USA of Central OhioGreat job...edging and pre clean up went well with a great job with seal coat. Friendly, efficient and professional.
All Star Paving and SealingScott did not get appropriate access to the property prior to the scheduled inspection which required us to come back later in the day to complete it. He also, unprofessionally, knocked on a neighbor?s door in his attempts to reach someone with access. His overall report was fine though the...
Security First Home InspectionsDid a great job replacing the ice maker and water regulator on my refrigerator. He was quick and thorough, very friendly and professional. If I needed a heart transplant I'd want him to do it!!!
Just moved from PA to Columbus in a studio apartment and needed help with some heavy furnitures because I couldn't do it alone. I called Hyremovers and they did a great and timely job and also left my apartment walls intact. Great service!
Scott checked our large crawl space for mold and water infiltration and recommended a viable solution. The crew was efficient and they cleaned up well after the job. The job was expensive but I am confident that I won't have to deal with the problem again. Highly recommend.
AdvantaClean of DublinFrom average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
The cost of a mold inspection might seem high, but it’s one of the best investments you can make for your health and home. Read on to learn cost-saving tips.
Mold remediation cost can quickly escalate. But if you have mold in your home, the cost for mold remediation is worth it.
If you aren’t sure what type of mold is in your home, keep reading for a detailed breakdown of white mold vs black mold to see if one or the other is the culprit.
Not sure what type of mold is forming in your home? We’re breaking down black mold vs regular mold.
What does black mold look like? It has a dark color and may appear slightly fuzzy. Use this guide to learn about the variations in black mold’s appearance.
Mold is a common concern for many homeowners, especially black mold. Is black mold toxic? Yes, and that's why you need to know how to identify it.
