What Is Cladosporium? Pronounced: clad-oh-SPORE-ee-um Cladosporium is a dark green to black mold made up of clusters of spores that thrive in both warm and cool environments. Unlike many molds that prefer warmth, Cladosporium can grow in refrigerators, on cold basement walls, and inside HVAC systems.
It often looks like soot, dirt, or dust and may be mistaken for simple grime—especially on window sills, vents, and painted walls. But don’t let the subtle appearance fool you.
Where Cladosporium Is Commonly Found
You’ll typically see this mold in:
- Window sills and wood trim around windows
- HVAC vents and ductwork
- Closets, especially those with poor airflow
- Fabric furniture and carpets
- Bathrooms, especially behind toilets or under sinks
- Basement walls, especially concrete or drywall exposed to moisture
Cladosporium grows quickly in areas with condensation, high humidity, or poor ventilation—making it a common sight in homes with water issues or older, leaky windows.
Is Cladosporium Dangerous?
While Cladosporium isn’t classified as a toxic mold, it can still be harmful—especially for people with allergies, asthma, or weakened immune systems. Common symptoms include:
- Nasal congestion or sneezing
- Coughing or wheezing
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Skin irritation or rashes
- Exacerbation of asthma or respiratory issues
Long-term exposure can worsen these symptoms, particularly in homes where Cladosporium is present in ventilation systems, allowing spores to circulate throughout the air.
Why DIY Cleaning Often Fails
Many homeowners try to wipe away what looks like dirt—only for the mold to return within days or weeks. That’s because:
- Surface cleaning doesn’t kill the root of the mold, especially if it has penetrated drywall or wood.
- Porous materials like insulation, carpeting, and wallpaper can trap spores beneath the surface.
- HVAC systems can recirculate spores, spreading the problem throughout your home.
Without professional remediation and moisture control, Cladosporium keeps coming back.
How MSI Can Help
At MSI, we’ve performed thousands of mold inspections and remediations projects since 1998. Our process includes:
- Detailed mold testing to confirm the species and spore count
- Source tracking to find moisture or ventilation problems
- Safe removal using HEPA filtration and containment
- Post-remediation testing to ensure the issue is fully resolved
We don’t just clean—we eliminate the conditions that allow mold to thrive.
Don’t Let Cladosporium Linger in Your Home
What looks like a little dirt or dust might be something far more serious. Cladosporium mold is one of the most overlooked causes of poor indoor air quality, especially in homes with older windows, musty basements, or recurring moisture. If you’ve noticed dark spots on vents, sills, or walls, it’s time to get it checked. MSI has the tools, experience, and knowledge to identify the mold and remove it safely. Call today and let us help you restore a cleaner, healthier home.