What Do Different Mold Odors Mean?

26 May What Do Different Mold Odors Mean?

Mold is often described as undetectable, and this may be the case depending on the amount of mold present in the building. However, there are warning signs such as smells that become apparent when you know what to look for. Mold smells can indicate how long the mold has been present and even how much of it there might be. Here is a simple guide to the different types of mold smells.

Recognizing Odors Caused by Mold

1: A Musty Smell

Mold is often described as smelling musty or like that of dirty socks. This dampness might even feel heavy in the air. Depending on the strength of the smell, it could mean that the mold has formed recently.

A simple way to test whether it is simply a humid day or you have mold, open the windows and let the air out. If the scent continues to linger, you might have mold present.

2: A Rotting Wood Smell

Mold has also been described as smelling like rotting wood particles. Commonly found outside, if this odor is inside your building then you most likely have a mold issue and should contact a mold removal specialist.

Mold allergy symptoms include:

• Sneezing
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Cough and postnasal drip
• Itchy eyes, nose and throat
• Watery eyes
• Dry, scaly skin

3: A Sharp or Soft Pervasive Odor

Like cheese, mold scents range from sharp to soft depending on the amount present. Your first instinct might be to try to cover the sharper smells with air fresheners or sprays. However, continuously ignoring the issue or mistaking it for something else will only prolong your exposure.

Types of Mold

There are three different types of molds; allergenic, pathogenic, and toxigenic. Allergic mold produces allergy-like symptoms, and toxigenic produces toxic substances. Mold pathogens can affect anyone, and cause serious respiratory problems. It’s not worth it for your health and safety to try to guess which smell belongs to which type. Every type of mold is cause for concern.

Mold Remediation Services

If you are experiencing poor air quality coupled by any sort of persistent cold-like symptoms, mold might be the underlying cause. At Pure Maintenance NE, we offer mold inspection and remediation through our patented dry fog technology. If you think any of these odors feel a little too familiar, contact us today to schedule a free inspection.

Photo by Matthijs B on Unsplash