MOLD AND MILDEW
by Mark Tarses
Mildew is a common problem here in the San Francisco Bay Area. It is especially common during the rainy season. Mildew is not dirt. It is a living organism. It produces stains on walls and a distinctive musty odor. Mildew is also unhealthy, as it gets into the air you breathe.
To reduce or eliminate mildew, you must address the conditions that allow mildew to grow. The most important thing to remember is that mildew needs moisture.
A. Let in fresh air, particularly in high humidity areas, such as the bath and kitchen. Keep a window ajar or use an exhaust fan to allow the air to circulate.
B. Let in sunlight. Don't keep window shades closed all the time. There are many unhealthy micro-organisms that thrive in dark rooms that are killed by sunlight.
C. Don't overheat your house.
D. Mildew can grow quickly in wet clothes and towels. Don't let wet clothes or damp towels sit on the floor. Wash and dry wet clothes and towels frequently.
Mildew Remover. There are many mildew removal products sold in supermarkets and drug stores. Read the label. Make sure that the product says that it disinfects. Be sure that you are not buying soap scum remover, which is often placed next to the mildew remover in stores and often comes in very similar containers. To remove mildew on a ceiling, use a sponge mop on a stick. That way, you can clean the ceiling without a ladder.
Bleach. Don't use bleach to remove mildew. While bleach will kill mildew, it is much less effective in preventing mildew from returning than mildew remover. Bleach may damage your walls, and your room will smell like an over-chlorinated swimming pool when you are done.