It’s easy to confuse mold with mildew and vice versa. While they’re both types of fungi and can pose a health risk, they differ in appearance. You can remove mildew on your own, but mold removal requires a professional to keep you and your family safe.
Signs of Mold Vs. Mildew
Mold is often mistaken for dirt because it’s usually dark green, red, or black. It might be fuzzy and bumpy. In contrast, mildew starts off white or gray but turns brown as it ages. The first sign of mildew is often just a small, flat dot, which can have a powdery appearance.
You’ll find mold and mildew in moist areas of your home, such as your bathroom or under the kitchen sink. Mold can also develop if you have a water leak or a leak in your roof. While moisture is the main reason for the growth of mildew and mold, poor ventilation and lack of sunlight also contribute to the growth of these fungi.
Health Consideration
Exposure to mold can cause health problems, especially if you or another member of your household is allergic. The spores of mildew or mold can affect the air quality of your home. You may notice sneezing, runny nose, coughing, wheezing, or a rash. Mold can cause respiratory problems, heart issues, migraines, and depression.
Mildew typically doesn’t pose as many health risks as mold, although you may notice coughing, headaches, sore throat, or other respiratory problems. With mildew, the bigger risk is prolonged exposure, which can lead to more severe reactions.
How To Remediate Mildew
If possible, dispose of any material with mildew, including wallpaper, drywall, fabrics, or wood. Then use a squirt bottle to moisten the affected area. This will prevent mildew spores from being released into the air. You can use warm soapy water or a vinegar-water solution to scrub the mildew off the affected area. Use clean water and a fresh sponge to avoid redistributing the mildew.
After you remove the mildew, you must let the area dry. If you notice mildew in a commonly wet area, you also need to reduce moisture buildup in the future. This could mean the use of a dehumidifier in the bathroom or using the vents whenever you take a bath or shower.
Who To Call for Mold Remediation
Mold removal is not something you should attempt on your own. Improper mold remediation may spread the spores around your home and endanger your health. Mold is resistant to chlorine bleach and other household cleaning agents, but it’s also often invisible. This makes it difficult to spot and sometimes impossible to get to.
Proper mold remediation includes identifying all areas of mold, professionally cleaning and disinfecting your area, and removing any spores of mold in the air. At Steamatic, we specialize in mold remediation and removal to restore the air quality in your home. If you’re not sure whether you’re dealing with mold or mildew, we can perform mold testing in your home. Don’t delay if you suspect mold, because it’s a threat to your health.
