Is it Mildew or is it Mold?
Get Rid of Those Funky Fungi’s Permanently!
If you own a cabin or an RV, you have most likely encountered a black spotty mess in your storage area, overhead on ceilings or in your shower, especially if you camp in warm humid climates. These pesky fungi can cause health problems and serious damage to your property if left unchecked.
However, it can be confusing to know the difference between mold and mildew and how to safely eliminate them. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between mold and mildew and provide you with safe and effective ways to get rid of them.
Let’s start with some definitions.
What is Mold?
Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in damp and humid environments. It can grow on various surfaces such as wood, carpets, and drywall. Mold can appear in a variety of colors such as black, green, or white, and can have a fuzzy or slimy texture. Mold generally also has a stronger smell and can be quite pungent. Mold is more insidious and burrows into materials such as wood making it harder to eliminate.
If left unchecked, mold can cause serious illness ranging from respiratory problems to neurological issues.. Mold is also known for causing structural damage to property, making it crucial to address it as soon as possible. It’s especially important to watch for mold development if you’ve had a flood or other water damage to your cabin or RV as it creates a perfect moist breeding ground.
What is Mildew?
Mildew is a type of fungus that grows on moist surfaces and is typically white or gray in color. It tends to grow in areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms. It is typically more dry looking and may even appear powdery. Mildew is not as dangerous as mold, but it can still trigger allergic reactions in some people. Mildew can cause discoloration and breakdown of materials over time and can still produce an unpleasant odor.
The Key Facts about Mold
Not all molds are toxic. In North America we have 5 common strains of toxic molds – Stachybotrys (black mold) , aspergillis, penicillium, claydysporum, and fusarium.
It is nearly impossible for most people to identify what mold or mildew they have. The simple rule of thumb: don’t worry about trying to figure out what kind of mold exists. Assume they are toxic and eliminate them.
Aspergillus and Penicillium prefer to colonize air condition systems. They are at the root of the increasing number of class action lawsuits against RV and auto manufacturers. These were started by people who developed serious health problems arising from ongoing exposure to these toxic molds.
RV’s, boats and other confined spaces that don’t ventilate well create ideal conditions for molds to take over. Regular preventative treatments are needed to keep them at bay and improve the resale value of your unit.
It is mold spores that cause the health issues. They float in the air, we inhale them and they germinate inside us (yuk), releasing toxins into the body.
Effectively removing pervasive mold infestation requires using a professional system that addresses surfaces, air handling systems and interior air quality. Anything less than all 3, is a waste of time and money.
Bleach is not at all effective on mold spores. Hydrogen peroxide is way better but still doesn’t address the spores all that well.
Both Mold and Mildew Pose Health Risks
While mildew can cause respiratory problems and headaches, the effects of mold, especially toxic molds, can be much more severe. These molds can cause skin and eye irritation, respiratory illnesses, organ damage, general malaise and they are known to be precursors to certain types of cancers. Toxic molds can even affect your nervous system and lead to memory loss, mood changes, and depression.
That's why it's crucial to eliminate mold and mildew as soon as they're detected to avoid these potential health issues.
How to Safely Get Rid of Mold or Mildew
Wear Protective Gear
If you suspect that you are dealing with either mold or mildew, take a few precautions before you begin cleaning. Be sure to protect yourself by wearing gloves, a mask, and goggles.
Wearing a mask while cleaning mold or mildew is important because these substances can release tiny spores into the air that can be inhaled into the lungs. These spores can cause respiratory problems, particularly for those with allergies or asthma. It is recommended to wear an N95 respirator mask or one with a higher level of protection to prevent inhaling these harmful spores. Additionally, wearing gloves and other protective clothing can also reduce the risk of skin irritation caused by contact with mold and mildew.
Identify the Source
Find the source of the moisture that is causing the mold or mildew growth. If there is a leak, fix it as soon as possible to avoid the growth of mold/mildew in the future.
Use the Right Products
While mildew can be easily removed with common household cleaners and a scrubbing brush, mold is a different story. Unlike mildew, which only grows on surfaces, mold can penetrate walls, carpets, and other materials, making it more difficult to eliminate. Moreover, there are many different types of mold, and the most effective removal procedure depends on the type.
For some types of mold, such as black mold, hydrogen peroxide or specialized cleaning products may be effective at removing the mold. For more severe cases, it may be necessary to hire a mold removal professional to safely eliminate the mold.
Overall, it's important to take mold seriously and not attempt to remove it without proper precautions. If you suspect that you have mold in your home, it's best to consult with a professional to ensure that it's safely and effectively removed.
What about Mold or Mildew Staining?
This ready-to-use, low-odor formula is perfect for use in confined spaces like Boats, RVs, attics and basements - anywhere strong odor’s are a concern.
It's also great for open areas like decks, pool areas and vinyl awnings.
Simply spray on porous or non-porous surfaces, and watch the stains disappear!
Mold and mildew stains can be difficult to remove with regular household cleaning products and may require a specialized solution designed specifically for removing mold stains.
Additionally, stain removers can also help with preventing future mildew or mold growth by eliminating any remaining spores that may have been left behind after cleaning. This is especially important because mold spores can continue to grow and spread if they're not completely eliminated.
Protect your Health and Your Rig
Mold and mildew can cause serious damage to your cabin or RV and to your health if left unchecked. It is important to identify the difference between mold and mildew and to take preventative measures to avoid their growth in the future. By following the tips provided in this blog post, you can safely and effectively get rid of mold and mildew. Keep your living space clean, dry, and safe by taking action against mold and mildew infestations.