So – mold vs. mildew. We often see mold bloggers across the internet distinguish between these fungi. It is a difference in language we sometimes touch on in our blog. Others sometimes use it to distinguish severe mold cases from common bathroom mildew.
I want to dispel some of the confusion. In this short piece, I will break down some critical differences between mold and mildew so you can better assess your needs when you discover some in your home!
Mold vs. Mildew: Are Mold & Mildew the Same?
Short answer: Yes. According to the EPA, “mildew refers to certain kinds of mold or fungus. The term mildew is often used to refer to mold growth, usually with a flat growth habit.”
Mildew is mold. The EPA distinguishes the two by referring to the “flat growth habit” of mildew. Many of the strains we refer to as “mold” have a raised texture that is fuzzy or slimy. Many, which we call “mildew,” appear flat and have a powdery texture.
Will Mold or Mildew Make You Sick?
Like mold, there is no one kind of “mildew.” As we illustrate above, mildew is another way to refer to certain molds. With that in mind, research indicates that mold and mildew may harm human health.
Unfortunately, there is no single set of symptoms. Different species of mold may cause unique health problems, and people may react in distinct ways depending on variables like genetics and general wellness.
What is critical to understand is that no matter the mold, what you can see of it is likely just the tip of the iceberg. The mildew you see growing in your bathroom isn’t directly affecting you. What does affect you are spores and mycotoxins that float in the air throughout your home that you inhale or otherwise ingest.
That mold on your vent is a symptom of a bigger mold problem, one we recommend you address immediately.
How to Get Rid of Mildew
Because mold can be in the air throughout any given space, scrubbing away what you see on a surface doesn’t solve your mold problem. If you see mold or mildew or are suffering from symptoms that indicate a mold problem you can’t see, seek help from a professional mold specialist who will reduce the total mold load throughout your space.
We at Pure Maintenance are experts at such comprehensive mold remediation! We also offer systems that keep the mold and mold byproducts that affect your health as low as possible.
How to Prevent Mildew
As with all mold, the best way to prevent mildew is to keep the relative humidity of your space at healthy levels; the CDC recommends below 50%. To do this, use and maintain your bathroom fan, and leave the door open while you shower if you can. If you live in a humid climate, invest in a dehumidifier.
If you want to go the extra mile, Pure Maintenance can offer you technology that fights against mold and mold byproducts around the clock. That way, you can rest assured that you live with the best indoor air quality available.
