QandAs: Home

What Is Mildew?

Answer:
Mildew is a living organism which is something

you do not want in your home. It is a thin growth which can occur on many surfaces throughout your home. Mildew is usually black in color, although some variations can be white.

Mildew is caused by molds. Molds are a simple plant. The molds that cause mildew require moisture and a certain temperature range (warmth) in order to grow. Mildew is most commonly developed during the humid summer months, especially in houses that are closed up. Any surface that can provide them the food they need to grow can develop mildew. In homes, mildew can most commonly develop on cotton, linen, rayon, silk, wool, leather, wood, and paper. Most synthetic fibers and materials are manufactured to resist mildew.

Molds that can cause mildew will flourish in any areas where it is damp, warm, poorly lighted, or where air doesn’t circulate well. These areas include: cellars, crawl spaces, closets, on drapes and rugs in basements, on shower curtains, and on damp clothes that have been rolled up for ironing. As the molds and mildew continue to grow, they will begin to give off a musty odor. Mildew will cause fabric to discolor, and as the mold continues to grow and eat into the fabric, the fabric will begin to rot and fall to pieces. Mildew will also cause leather and paper to discolor. In order to avoid mildew on your fabrics, you should never store fabric items in a plastic bag. They are best stored wrapped in a pillowcase or sheet.


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