Our guide to tackling and preventing green mould in your home and car explains all about green mould, including how to remove it and whether it’s dangerous.

What is Green Mould and is it Dangerous?

Many of us will have to deal with green mould in our homes or cars from time to time. But what exactly is it, and is it dangerous to our health?

In this guide, we explain green mould and how, if left untreated, it can cause health problems, especially in those with allergies. We also share advice for removing green mould and preventing its reoccurrence so you can be sure your home and car stay clean and mould-free.

What is Green Mould?

Green mould is a type of fungus that thrives on moisture and breaks down organic matter to survive.

Green mould is a term used to cover hundreds of different mould species. This means that depending on the specific species and stage of growth, green mould can also appear blue, black or pink.

The most common types of green mould are :

• Cladosporium – Although this type of mould thrives on plants, it is also known to grow on household surfaces like walls, cabinets, and carpets.
• Aspergillus – This is the kind of mould you often see on food that is past its best, like bread, but it also grows in nutrient-poor but moisture-rich environments like basements.
• Penicillium – As the name suggests, some types of penicillum mould are used to make penicillin. While this bluish-green coloured mould may be well-known for its antibacterial properties, it can also emit mycotoxins that are toxic to people and pets. Penicillium mould prefers colder environments like soil but can also form on wet items in the home, like towels.

Is Green Mould Dangerous?

Green mould is not usually as harmful as black mould, but it can still pose a health risk if left untreated. This is especially true for people with allergies.

The most common symptoms people suffer from as a result of green mould are watery eyes, a runny nose and a cough, but excessive green mould exposure can be associated with :

• Allergic reactions
• Breathing problems
• Skin irritation
• Eye irritation
• Asthma attacks
• Headaches

Where is Green Mould Found?

Green mould thrives in humid conditions, so it can often be found in areas of the home with high levels of moisture and organic matter, such as :

• Bathrooms
• Kitchens
• Walls
• Windowsills
• Attics
• Basements
• Food

In some conditions, particularly in humid areas of New Zealand, green mould growth is also common in cars where it thrives in moist, warm conditions.

How Do You Get Rid of Green Mould?

Treating green mould is relatively straightforward and you can do it yourself with proper precautions. It is best to treat areas as soon as you notice them to help keep your car or home healthy and free from more serious mould issues.

It is also important to identify the cause of mould when getting rid of it to prevent it from returning. Green mould is usually caused by excessive moisture from a leaking pipe or appliance or lack of ventilation.

A step-by-step guide to green mould removal

1. Wear suitable protective clothing including gloves, a mask and goggles to prevent you from touching or inhaling spores.
2. Mix distilled vinegar or baking soda with a small amount of water and apply to the affected area using a spray bottle or a sponge.
3. Leave to sit on the affected area for a minute.
4. Scrub the area gently to remove the mould, and rinse with clean water.
5. Repeat the process if necessary to remove all green mould. If necessary, leave the vinegar or baking soda solution to sit longer before scrubbing clean.
6. To prevent mould spores from spreading to other areas, place any materials used to clean the mould in a sealed plastic bag and dispose of them.

You can also buy bleach-free mould removal products to treat the affected area. If you choose a pre-mixed solution, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to use it.

When to seek professional help with green mould?

Although you can treat green mould yourself, you should get professional help treating the area of green mould if it is :

• Larger than the size of a dinner plate
• Reoccurring
• Causing structural damage

You should also seek professional help removing green mould if you suffer from health conditions, like allergies, that put you at greater risk of being affected by mould.

How to Prevent Green Mould From Coming Back?

Prevention is the key when it comes to stopping green mould. By implementing the below measures, you can help prevent mould from reoccurring :

Control moisture levels

Proper ventilation is essential for your home or car, especially in areas prone to moisture, such as kitchens or bathrooms. Open your windows frequently or use an extractor fan to improve airflow and reduce humidity. However, when it comes to your car, always remember to close your windows before leaving the vehicle so no moisture can get in.

Fix any leaks

Make sure you regularly inspect your home for signs of water leaks, paying attention to pipes, roofs and windows. You can then fix any issues before a problem with green mould occurs.

Reduce humidity

Humidity levels should ideally be between 30% and 50%. To achieve this, use a home or car dehumidifier.

Keep Your Car Green Mould Free With Expert Help

If you notice any signs of green mould in your beloved vehicle, you must act quickly to remove the green mould. That’s where we can help.

As New Zealand’s leading professional hand wash & car grooming provider, we can take care of your beloved car for you, ensuring it is clean and green mould free. Our services range from 100% hand car washes to interior and exterior car grooming that restore your car’s like-new appearance.

Book online or visit your nearest Espresso Car Wash branch today to revitalise your treasured vehicle.