A Wall Covered With Green Mould

How to Rid Your Home of Odours Caused by Mould Growth?

What is mould and why does it smell?

We have all smelt a musty, earthy odour in our homes at some point, often caused by mould growth. Mould is a type of fungus which thrives in damp and humid environments. and reproduces through the production of spores. If it isn’t dealt with, mould can quickly spread to various surfaces in your home, from walls and ceilings to fabrics and furniture. As it spreads and reproduces, it releases gaseous chemicals known as microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) into the air.

However, as there are different species of mould the mVOCs that are released will vary. Therefore, the smell of mould might differ based on what is present. Although the scent of it may not always be earthy and damp, here are some of the common characteristics to watch out for:

Sour

The smell of sourness in mould can be similar to the acidic, pungent odour that is normally associated with spoiled food. It may have a sharp and unpleasant scent.

Tangy

This scent is noticeable and can be intense. It is similar to the smell of vinegar as it has an acidic quality.

Rotting

Rotting mould is often repulsive, similar to decaying organic material such as rotting eggs or meat. It can be overpowering or foul.

Fermenting

The smell of fermenting mould can indeed be similar to the scents associated with ageing cheese, decaying fruit, or fermenting alcohol.

A White Wall With A Patch Of Mould Starting To Spread

How can you identify the source of the odours?

Identifying the source of the odours caused by mould can be difficult when they seem to come from everywhere. We recommend focusing on specific areas in each room to pinpoint the problem. Here are some general tips on where you can look for mould growth in different areas of your home:

Kitchen

Preparing food in a kitchen while being surrounded by the smell and sight of mould will not do favours for anyone’s appetite. The most common location for mould growth will be under the sink. Plumbing leaks and poor ventilation can create the perfect breeding ground when it comes to mould. Additionally, you may also want to have a look behind appliances such as the refrigerator, dishwasher, and stove, as they can also harbour mould growth.

Bedroom

With the bedroom being a space where you unwind and rest, the growth of mould can be troubling. To begin your inspection of this space, you should pay close attention to the closets as mould can grow in them and on clothes, especially if they are overcrowded and poorly ventilated. The presence of mould may also be found on bedsheets and can trigger allergic reactions in those with sensitive skin which could also lead to health conditions if they are not thoroughly cleaned.

Bathroom

The bathroom is another common area to look for mould growth. It is usually caused by lingering moisture due to a lack of ventilation. The signs you should watch out for include wall discolouration, crumbling plaster, and peeling wallpaper. However, if you can smell them but are unable to spot anything, try and check under the sink, on the tiles, behind the doors or shower curtains.

Living room

The living room could be where you and your loved ones gather to relax after a long day. If you have children or the elderly in your home, the growth of mould could pose a health risk to them. Attention should be paid to cushions and upholstery for any signs of mould or strange odours, along with sticking to a regular cleaning schedule according to the manufacturer’s instructions. You may also want to keep an eye on the walls and ceiling for signs of water damage, especially in corners or near windows.

What are the safety precautions you should take when removing mould?

When it comes to removing mould, you can’t just put on a pair of gloves and get to work. If you have allergies or sensitive skin, it is especially important to take precautions when removing mould to avoid adverse reactions.

Here are some steps you can take to protect your health:

Wear protective gear

In addition to gloves, be sure to wear a mask and safety goggles to protect your skin and lungs from not only mould spores but also cleaning chemicals. If possible, use work gloves and a N95 respirator instead of the generic versions of these gear for added safety.

Avoid touching mould with bare hands

Avoid having mould coming into contact with your bare skin or inhaling its spores. This can lead to health issues such as allergic reactions and respiratory issues. When cleaning mould or handling items contaminated with mould, always wear gloves, a mask, and protective eyewear to minimise exposure. Additionally, wash your hands and any exposed skin thoroughly after handling mould to remove any spores that you may have come into contact with.

Use proper cleaning solutions

Use cleaning solutions that are formulated to tackle mould as they will able to better aid in its removal. These solutions are designed to break down mould and its spores, making it easier to clean and remove them from surfaces. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using them, while taking care to avoid mixing any of these solutions.

Dispose of contaminated items

Once you have completed the removal of mould, it is time to get rid of items that are unable to be salvaged. Do not simply throw them into the bin but have them carefully bagged and disposed of according to local regulations.

Remember, if the growth of mould seems to have spread beyond an area for you to handle, it is always best to call a professional for help!

A Lady Wearing A Yellow Glove While Holding A Bucket Of Spray Bottles In A Kitchen

How can you remove odours caused by mould?

Now that you have gotten rid of the mould that is in your home, there is a chance that there is still lingering odour. We have a few tips on how you can remove such scents from your space:

Use an air purifier

Air purifiers can not only remove unpleasant odours but also reduce moisture levels in the air, reducing the risk of mould growth. We recommend selecting one with a HEPA filter as they are effective at trapping dust, pollen, and other allergens, including mould spores.

Keep your space well-ventilated

Ensuring the constant circulation of fresh air can prevent the build-up of unpleasant odours and lower the levels of moisture. You may also want to use fans to improve air circulation in areas where odours are more prevalent. It also works to create a healthier living environment for you and your loved ones.

Seek professional help

Professionals such as TYCHE Enviro have special equipment that is designed to remove mould and its associated odours. They can also provide insights on how to prevent mould from recurring in the future. If you are dealing with a stubborn mould odour that you can’t seem to get rid of, why not seek professional help?

Two People Wearing Cleaning Suits Preventing Disinfecting A Reading Room To Prevent Mould Growth

Do you need professional mould and odour removal?

Mould and odour often come hand in hand, with both being an annoyance to deal with. If you are not able to remove them or they have spread to a large area of your home, contact us now at TYCHE Enviro and let us assist you. With a team of experienced professionals and top-notch equipment, we are confident in being able to restore a clean and healthy environment for you and your loved ones.

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