Detection of Mold Molds can usually be detected by a musty odor, and discoloration of surfaces is common with mold growth. The mold may change surfaces to white, green, brown, black or orange. Places Molds Grow Basements may have mold if they are wet or damp. Bathrooms can have mold growth if exhaust fans are not used while showering or bathing. Soap scum, shower walls, ceramic tile and fiberglass are all possible surfaces for mold growth.
Laundry rooms are common places to find mold if damp towels and clothing are present.
Unvented clothes drying, which produces high levels of relative humidity, can also cause mold. Kitchens are possible sites for mold growth if large amounts of water are boiled using no exhaust fan. Refrigerator pans in automatic defrosting refrigerators also commonly have mold. Closets often have mold growth, especially if clothing is stored damp or dirty. Conditions for Mold Growth Molds grow on organic materials such as paper, leather, dirt and soap scum.