A university student’s Reddit post about mysterious mushrooms growing in a shared bathroom sparked alarm. It revealed a serious underlying issue: extensive water damage and fungal infestation.
A shocking discovery in a University bathroom raises concerns about hidden water damage
College life is full of surprises — from late-night study sessions to new friendships. But one student recently discovered something far more disturbing: mushrooms growing inside the bathroom walls of their shared university accommodation.
The student took to Reddit, posting a photo of dark-colored fungi sprouting from a wall and asking:
“Found this growing in my university shared bathroom! The growth spans around 4-5 inches. Does anyone know what it is and if I will be dying???”
The unusual sight triggered a flood of reactions, jokes, and speculation in the comment section. Some likened the scene to the dystopian video game The Last of Us, while others joked about ghost stories and lost students haunting the dorms.
Experts explain why mushroom growth indicates serious structural issues
Despite the humor, a Reddit user identifying as a “mycology nerd” quickly chimed in with a serious warning.
They identified the mushrooms as ink caps, a common species that thrives in damp environments.
While the mushrooms themselves aren’t directly harmful, their presence signals something far more troubling: deep and widespread water damage within the walls.
“The mycelium — the hidden root system of the fungus — is likely spreading through rotting wall materials,” the commenter explained.
“By the time mushrooms are visible, significant decay has usually already occurred.”
This means that what may appear to be a surface issue is often the tip of the iceberg. Behind the scenes, the fungus is feeding on moisture-compromised materials, which can deteriorate the building’s structural integrity.
Why mushroom growth in walls is a red flag for dampness and decay
According to experts from Advanced Damp, the presence of mushrooms indoors is a strong indicator of prolonged moisture exposure, typically caused by plumbing leaks, poor ventilation, or faulty waterproofing.
When mushrooms or other fungi appear, it usually means:
The wall cavity is retaining moisture.
Organic materials like drywall and wood are decaying. Mold, mildew, and rot are likely to follow. Health risks increase due to potential airborne spores.
Structural damage may require full wall removal or replacement.
Students urged to report any signs of mold or moisture immediately
In response to the Reddit post, several users urged the student to alert campus housing authorities immediately.
Found this growing in my university shared bathroom!
byu/xXDANK-MEME-LORDXx inmildlyinfuriating
One person said: Unfortunately, this means walls will need to be ripped out. By the time mushrooms fruit, serious decay has already set in.
A second wrote: It could be a pipe burst, failed waterproofing, or even botched construction. Either way, that wall is compromised.
While a third commented: It doesn’t have a chilling meaning. It means you got damp from some sort of leak somewhere.
Someone else said: Perhaps the landlord needs a warning too!
Another added: Would hate to see inside the walls…
Someone said: Nothing magic about them shrooms. Lol
While the exact origin of the moisture remains unknown, the severity of the situation is clear. Ignoring such signs can result in higher repair costs, health risks, and damage to the living environment for all residents.