Mold and Mildew Removal

There are some tips and tricks for mold and mildew removal. Mold and mildew can grow on any surface as long as a food source is available. Mold is a type of fungi that can cause mildew to form. Molds are found in the air but in order to produce mildew moisture is needed.

Molds and mildew can damage what ever they are growing on. They discolor fabric and if left to themselves can even rot the fabric. There is also a musty odor associated with mold. The best places for mold and mildew to grow are shower curtains, damp clothes, basements, cellars and any place that is dark, damp and moist that has little air circulation.

In order to prevent mildew you need to keep areas clean, try to get rid of dampness, such as using a dehumidifier and waterproofing surfaces. You should try to keep the air dry and by heating your air for shorter periods with a high air circulation rate you can keep the moisture in your home down. There are many different products that can be used to remove mold and mildew though the best defense is to prevent mold and mildew in the first place.

Chemicals can be used for mold and mildew removalincluding any musty odors associated with them. Chlorinated lime can be used in basements to get rid of musty odors. You can also scrub walls and floors with light solutions of bleach or sodium hypochlorite. After scrubbing you should rinse with water.

Mold and mildew can be eliminated from fabrics by spraying on fungicide products. Lemon juice and salt, peroxygen bleach and chlorine bleach can be used to remove mold from clothing, however you need to use a very dilute solution to prevent discoloration of the fabric. You can also store your clothes with mildew inhibitors such as paradichlorobenzene. These types of chemicals can be easily found in grocery and drug stores.

Mildew can be removed from leather goods by wiping with a damp cloth and diluted alcohol. Wood needs to be treated with heat and air unless it is too badly infected and then it will need to be replaced. You can also scrub wood with a mild alkali solution. Paper and mildewed books should be wiped and then allowed to air dry in a well air circulated space. Never scrub paper. You can also sprinkle cornstarch or talcum powder to absorb the moisture.

Mold and mildew removal can be a time consuming task, but it is a task well undertaken as putting it off will only insure a bigger mess later on.