Uh oh! You opened your clay bin and found a not-so-pleasant surprise – black mold! Before you panic and toss the whole bin (and maybe yourself) into the dumpster, let’s take a deep breath and explore this moldy mayhem.
We’ll dive into the science behind mold formation, discuss the potential risks (spoiler alert: it’s usually not as scary as it looks!), and share tips for preventing a claypocalypse in your studio.
Wait… I’m a beginner! You’re in luck! Read ZCMW’s Beginner Blog Series HERE
Moldy Mysteries: Why Does Clay Get Moldy?
Think of mold as an uninvited guest crashing your clay party. It thrives in damp, dark environments, and your clay bin, unfortunately, can be the perfect vacation spot. Here’s why:
- Moisture Magnet: Clay is naturally absorbent and loves to hold onto moisture.
- Organic Buffet: Clay contains organic materials like plant matter, which mold finds delicious.
- Plastic Prison: Storing clay in airtight plastic containers traps moisture and creates a humid haven for mold.
(Image is owned by The Pottery Wheel)
Black Mold on Clay: Is it Dangerous?
Okay, let’s address the elephant (or should we say, fungus) in the room. Black mold sounds scary, but in most cases, it’s not as dangerous as it sounds.
- Not All Black Mold is Toxic: The infamous “toxic black mold” (Stachybotrys chartarum) is relatively rare. Most black mold on clay is a different, less harmful species.
- Allergies and Irritation: Even non-toxic mold can trigger allergies or respiratory irritation in some people.
- When in Doubt, Toss it Out: If you’re concerned about the type of mold or have sensitivities, it’s best to discard the affected clay.
Mold Prevention: Keeping Your Clay Fresh and Funky-Free
Prevention is key when it comes to mold. Here’s how to keep your clay happy and mold-free:
- Breathe Easy: Store clay in breathable containers like fabric bags or cardboard boxes.
- Dry Spell: Let your clay dry out a bit before storing it.
- Climate Control: Store clay in a cool, dry place.
- No Leftovers: Avoid returning leftover clay to your main clay supply. It might be contaminated with mold spores
(Image is owned by Pottery Crafters)
Moldy Clay FAQs:
- “Can I just scrape off the mold and use the rest of the clay?” It’s not recommended. Mold spores can penetrate deeper into the clay.
- “Can I kill mold with bleach or vinegar?” While these can kill surface mold, they might not eliminate all the spores.
- “What about mold on commercial clay?” Even commercial clay can get moldy. Always check your clay before use.
Remember: A little mold doesn’t have to be a disaster! By understanding the causes and taking preventive measures, you can keep your clay fresh, funky-free, and ready for your next creative adventure.
Hungry for More??
On episode 15 of For Flux Sake: Is my moldy bag of clay really more plastic? our hosts talk about the effect of mold growth on plasticity. They also answer a question about slaking clay and a listener writes in to challenge the gang on bisque temperatures.
For Flux Sake is hosted by Matt and Rose Katz of the Ceramics Materials Workshop along with Kathy King of the Harvard Ceramics Program. Together they answer your burning questions about clay and glaze. In each episode they answer listener submitted questions in a comical, but also insightful way. This show will have you laughing and learning about glaze chemistry the chemistry behind ceramics in no time. New episodes typically drop every week.
Watch For Flux Sake Episode 15 Is my moldy bag of clay really more plastic? NOW
Ready to dive deeper?
Loved learning about ceramic glazes? Want to go even deeper? Check out our Workshops & Courses, now available in Spanish, or YouTube Channel where Matt breaks it all down, myth-busting and Stull chart included!
