Mildew is one of the most common dangers around the home that sees a lot of confusion. A lot of people think that mold or mildew are the same thing. They use these terms interchangeably when discussing these growths on their household surfaces. But, they are completely different.

What is Mildew?

It's important to note that mold is a fungus that floats through the air via microscopic spores. Mildew is a specific type of mold. FEMA describes mildew as the early stage of mold. This means that mildew is also a microscopic fungus that travels through the air via tiny spores.

When these spores enter a humid and damp growing environment, they will begin to colonize. Mildew will not penetrate surfaces. Rather, it will grow right on top of flat surfaces like your plumbing fixtures.

Is Mildew a Danger to My Family?

Mildew won't have an immediate effect on your health like black mold does. But, it can be a real danger to your family if you let it go. It contains fungi that can produce a danger known as mycotoxins. These mycotoxins are responsible for mild to severe cold and flu-like symptoms. These symptoms will present worse for those who suffer from asthma and allergies.

How to Remove Mildew in Your Home?

This substance will have a fine, powdery texture that will show up in a yellow, white, or grayish hue. Over time, mildew will develop a black or dark brown color when it becomes more of a danger. In most cases, you can spot it in its early stage and remove it from the surfaces of your home.

If caught in its earliest growth stage, you can remove it with hard water and a mild detergent. This mixture works on many of your plumbing fixtures. If you don't spot it until its later stages, you'll likely need to use a more potent compound to remove it. One useful suggestion is spraying full-strength vinegar onto the growth. Give the vinegar a few minutes to work, then remove it with a sponge and warm water.

It's essential to remember that mildew thrives in damp and humid climates. This includes your bathrooms, laundry rooms, crawlspaces, basement, cellars, and closets. These areas are going to see the most mildew development. Realize that the earlier you catch mildew growth, the easier it's going to be to remove.

Call Us Today

If you're struggling with mildew growth in your home, give us a call today. Our plumbers can help to identify any underlying plumbing issues. We can fix these to reduce the amount of mildew growth you experience inside of your home.