There are many kinds of fungi in the world. Some are beneficial, some can be dangerous, and some are benign. But we are not referring to mold on oranges. This refers to orange-colored mold. Orange mold is slimy and spongy rather than fuzzy, and can be grown on foods, wood, and other objects. Before it takes on its slimy orange color, this mold will first appear as tiny dark-shaded patches. It may grow in conjunction with or even alongside other types. It is dangerous, then?
While orange mold isn’t considered to be a significant health threat, it isn’t entirely harmless. A person with a mold sensitivity can still experience a negative reaction to the mold if they are exposed to it.
Mold-Related Health Illnesses
Allergies can occur when you inhale or touch mold spores. These reactions may be acute or chronic, and can also develop after prolonged exposure. According to the CDC, moldy environments can cause dangerous health effects.
- Stuffy or Runny Nose
- Itching and wheezing
- Eye and Throat Inflammation
- Coughing
- Skin Rash
- Asthma
- Upper Respiratory Tract Infections
- Lung Irritations
- Acute idiopathic lung hemorhage (bleeding in your lungs)
- Memory Loss
- Lethargy
Orange Mold Can Grow in Common Areas
The kitchen is where you will find orange mold. It loves cheeses, yogurts, and breads. However, this does not mean that it will not grow outside of your refrigerator. You can find it in food stored in containers and on shelves.
It is important to note that orange mold can affect water filters. Water filters can become contaminated if your refrigerator is able to provide water in glass or icemaker. You should inspect it regularly, replace it when necessary, and avoid any moldy foods being left in the fridge. It is important to dispose of them immediately you find them. This will prevent mold growth on other food items. Orange mold can be more prevalent in areas with higher levels of acidity in the rainwater. Orange mold will be attracted if you have hard water (no softener).
The favorite food source of orange mold is wood. It can attack windowsills, exposed floor joints in basements, and attics because attics often have higher air temperatures and humidity than the rest.
Common Types Of Orange Mold
There are four types of orange mold. Each has a unique appearance and can be toxic to different levels.
Acremonium is a mold that has very little or no impact on people, unless they have a compromised immune system. It takes around five days to grow. As it ages, it appears leathery. It can be orange or gray, and it can also appear pinkish.
Orange Mold Removal
There are many options to remove mold, depending on the location. The mold can be cleaned in the toilet using bleach, vinegar, and hydrogen peroxide. By flushing the toilet regularly, you can reduce the number of microorganisms present in the water. It is possible to remove mold from the toilets with a portable steamer.
You can help water filters by making sure they are changed on a regular basis and using an oxygenizing filter. Discard any foods in your refrigerator that could become moldy. Next, use the bleach, vinegar, or hydrogen-peroxide solutions to clean the refrigerator’s interior.
Never use bleach to remove orange mold on wood. Bleach is made of chlorine and water. However, 96% of bleach is water. The surface of any substance is where chlorine works. It won’t cause any damage to anything below the surface (mold can have roots). The bleach will soak in, however, and add water to the area you want to kill.