As we all know, molds are forms of fungi that are found naturally in the environment, but then what is mildew and why it is essential to be removed. Mildew is a thin, often appears as black, gray or greenish growth produced by molds on walls, wood, fabric, clothes, carpets or plants. Molds are often present in the air, however, those that cause mildewneed moisture and certain temperatures in order to grow.
What is mildew and where does it grow?
Mildew commonly grows wherever it is damp, warm, poorly lighted or where air is not circulated like cellars, crawl spaces, closets. Also on draperies or rugs in basements, on shower curtains, and on damp clothes rolled up for ironing. In addition to an unpleasant musty odor, can cause considerable damage if permitted to grow, discoloring fabrics and sometimes eat into them until the fabrics rot and fall apart.
Biologically, mildew fungi are a natural part embedded in our environment. The mycelium of these fungi grows on a variety of different substrates, as saprobiont organisms or parasites. Young fungi form asexual spores. The term “mildew” actually refers only to this stage.
If mildew found on a given area the optimal environmental conditions such as humidity, nutritious organic materials, optimum temperature and convenient pH value, then mildew fungi are set on it and start germination. Mildew found sufficient nutrients on wallpapers, plaster boards, wood, glue (cellulose) and plastic materials, clothes, fabrics and carpets.
The presence of mildew growth is noticed only when already formed large colonies and began to fading and discoloring the surface layer on which settled.
Health implications of mildew
Mildew can be a significant problem, especially for children, older citizens, causing serious health risks ranging from infection to respiratory disease, allergy, infection and toxicity. The extent to which people may be affected by mildew fungus depends upon state of health, susceptibility to disease and the duration and severity of exposure. Some effects may be temporary until the contaminated area is vacated, however, others may be long term or permanent.
How to remove mildew?
It is very important to remove mildew growth as soon as you notice them. Brush off surface growth outdoors to prevent scattering the spores in the house. Wash mildew stained articles once with soap and water, rinse them well and dry them in the sun. If any stain remains, use one of the following bleaches:
- Lemon juice and salt. Moisten stain with lemon juice, spread on salt and place in the sun to dry. Rinse thoroughly. Use with care on colored fabrics.
- Perborate bleach. Mix one tablespoon sodium perborate bleach and one pint of water. Use hot water if it won’t damage the fabric, otherwise use lukewarm water. Sponge or soak the stained area. Allow to remain one-half hour, then rinse. Test on colored garments first.
- Chlorine bleach. Mix two tablespoons of liquid chlorine bleach with one quart of warm water. Sponge the stain or soak the stained area in the solution. Allow the bleach to remain on the fabric from five to 15 minutes, then rinse.
An additional soaking in weak vinegar (two tablespoons to a cup of water) will stop further bleach action. Never use a chlorine bleach on silk, wool, or Spandex fabrics. Some fabrics with wash-and-wear or other special finishes may be damaged by chlorine bleaches. Articles with such fine finishes usually have a warning label or on a hang tag attached to the garment when it is sold.