Mildew refers to a form of fungus that thrives in moist environments. It appears as a thin, white growth on walls, ceilings, fabrics and even on plants. Excessive humidity and inadequate ventilation in the house are ideal conditions for mildew growth. It is a frequent problem in bathrooms and basements. In addition to having a foul odour, mildew causes several diseases. In this article, we share ways to remove mildew
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Materials required to remove mildew
- Scrub or brush
- Cleaning solutions such as vinegar, baking soda, bleach and hydrogen peroxide
- Clean cloth
- Spray bottle
Procedure to remove mildew
Make sure you put on your safety gear, such as gloves, goggles and a mask, before you begin. This will shield you from any allergens and irritants that might be released during the cleaning process.
Prepare the area
Open windows and doors to allow proper air circulation in the area you are about to clean. With a dry scrub brush, remove any loose spores and debris from the surface. Take care not to spread the spores to unaffected areas.
Cleaning solutions
During scrubbing, pay special attention to corners and crevices. To prevent mildew from spreading, rinse the brush or sponge frequently.
Vinegar
In a spray bottle, combine water and vinegar in equal quantities. Then, spray the infected area and let it sit for a few hours. Gently scrub the surface with a brush and then rinse with water.
Baking soda
Baking soda is again an effective and natural cleaning agent that also helps to remove the foul odour of mildew. Make a paste of baking soda and water. To the affected area, apply the paste and gently scrub it. Finally, rinse it with water.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen not only cleans but also disinfects the area. In a spray bottle, combine equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and water and spray it on the affected area. Let it sit for 15 minutes. Scrub the surface with a brush and rinse it thoroughly with water.
Bleach
Mix bleach and water, then apply the concoction to the problem area and leave it for 15 minutes. Gently scrub the surface and wash with water.
Caution: Bleach should be used with caution. Do not mix bleach with any other cleaning solvent, as this can release poisonous gases.
Dry the surface
Dry the surface with a clean cloth. To prevent the growth of mildew, make sure the area is completely dry.
Preventing mildew growth
- Maintain the area: Keep your surroundings clean and dry, especially in bathrooms and kitchens.
- Reduce moisture: Always keep your home well-ventilated and maintain the level of humidity. In humid areas such as basements or bathrooms, open the windows or use exhaust fans and dehumidifiers.
- Fix leaks: Make sure that you fix the leaks in the pipes or windows to prevent moisture.
- Regular cleaning: Wet surfaces, such as bathroom tiles and sinks, should be cleaned regularly and dried.
- Treat mildew growth: As soon as you see any mildew growth, clean it immediately.
FAQs
Is mildew harmful to health?
Mildew can cause respiratory problems, allergies and skin irritation.
What are the visible signs of mildew?
Mildew appears as a powdery growth on surfaces. They are usually white or grey in colour and can be found in walls, ceilings, tiles, fabrics and plants.
How do I remove mildew from fabrics?
To remove mildew, wash the fabric in hot water with detergent and add a cup of vinegar or baking soda to the wash. Absorbent materials must be cleaned more thoroughly and may need to be replaced if mildew growth is severe.
Are mildew and mould the same?
Mildew and mould are both fungi, but mildew is a surface-level fungus that is less harmful than mould. Moulds are usually green, whereas mildew is usually grey or white.
Are natural cleaning solutions effective at killing mildew?
Yes, natural cleaning solutions are not only effective but also safe and non-toxic.
Can I completely get rid of mildew?
Mildew growth can be effectively managed and reduced with proper cleaning techniques and preventive measures.
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