Is Black Mold in the Shower Dangerous?
Black mold is a concern when it is either the Stachybotrys or Memnoniella types. They are considered toxic when an infestation is disturbed. Bathroom walls, shower stalls and grouting is usually the Cladosporium type of mold. It is not considered to be a toxic hazard, but in some individuals, a high level of exposure may cause them to develop health problems if they are particularly sensitive to it. The Cladosporium type feeds on soap scum that is present in shower areas. Does this Spark an idea?
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Sensitivity to Mold
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Some individuals, if exposed to high levels of the black mold, may develop allergies or asthma. Under these circumstances, it may be dangerous. Small children and babies are most likely to be affected by health problems with mold, according to the University of Vermont Extension. This is because their bodies are smaller and their respiratory systems less developed. Exposure to mold may also affect senior citizens, since their bodies may not work as efficiently as those of younger people.
Exacerbation of Illnesses
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People with allergies, sensitivities to pollutants and respiratory conditions are often more sensitive to the exposure of mold. Other individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy, may be more sensitive than other people. The response to exposure may be mild to severe.
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Causes of Black Mold
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Stachybotrys and Memnoniella molds are unlikely to appear in a shower area. They exist only in areas with cellulose materials that get wet frequently. Sources that have cellulose material include paper found on gypsumboard, ceiling tile, cardboard, cellulose insulation and wood. These materials are rarely used in constructing bathrooms, therefore the dangerous molds are generally not present.
Lengthy showers and baths exacerbate the growth of the Cladosporium black mold in bathrooms. These rooms are typically small and have little ventilation. Mold is present everywhere, but humid conditions enable it to thrive. Raising the window or using the exhaust fan in the bathroom helps reduce the humidity in the room. Using a squeegee on your shower walls or a dry towel to wipe off surfaces in the bathroom prevents further mold growth.
Aesthetics and Cleaning
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Black mold makes your bathroom look dirty and unsanitary. Since it is often present on shower curtains as well as the shower surfaces, it's important to wash the curtains periodically. Wash the curtain with a load of towels and hang it up on the shower rod to air-dry.
Cleaning the black mold in the shower area is not a difficult process. Open the bathroom window or use an exhaust fan to ventilate the area. Wear goggles, rubber gloves and long sleeves. Purchase an N-95 respirator mask available at home supply or hardware stores to prevent breathing in the mold and cleaning solution. Scrub the affected area with a stiff-bristle brush and a detergent or soap-and-water mixture. Rinse the area well with clear water.
Mix a solution of 1/2 cup chlorine bleach and 5 cups water -- double the amount if cleaning a large area. Dip a sponge into the bleach mixture and wipe down the areas affected by mold. Do not use this mixture if your soap or detergent contains ammonia. Combined with bleach, it creates toxic fumes that can be deadly.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Shower image by Semfamily from Fotolia.com
