Archive for May 2009

The Difference Between Mold and Mildew

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If you’ve ever read the back of a bottle of tub and shower cleaner, you made have noticed the words mold and mildew. I’ll be honest, for years I always assumed those two words meant the same thing. While they are similar, there is a difference.

Mold is a type of fungus that produces growth on various types of moist or decaying surfaces. It can grow on leather, clothing, walls, ceilings, and food or almost anywhere that moisture is present. It can often be identified by its color, which can range in blues, greens, blacks and reds. While some mold is harmless, some can be toxic and cause health problems in both humans and animals.

Mildew is also a type of fungus that grows on moist surfaces. However, mildew is generally found in showers, bathtubs and windowsills. It can be identified by its color of gray or white. Mildew is also more distinct since it can only take on a powdery or fuzzy form.  Although mildewing surfaces are not toxic, they can cause problems for people who are allergic to mold.

The best way for black mold removal and to minimize these types of fungus is by keeping the areas dry where moisture accumulates. If you already have a fungi problem, there are many products available on the market specifically designed to tackle the problem. If you’re worried about chemicals, there are also eco-friendly products available.

To prevent mold and mildew outbreaks, you should invest in a dehumidifier and open windows when possible. You may also want to consider installing an exhaust fan in both the kitchen and in the bathroom. And remember to always protect yourself by wearing rubber gloves and a mask when cleaning mold and mildew.

Types Of Mold

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Did you know that there are literally thousands of molds that have been identified by scientists so far to date? Some are dangerous while others can actually be helpful. The most common types of mold are those that lurk in our homes. They are:

Alternaria – Alternaria is an allergenic usually found in soil, plants and in homes around window frames. When inhaled the airborne allergen can cause asthma, hay fever and many other common allergy symptoms.

Cladosporium – Cladosporium is a black or dark green powdery fungus that is found both indoors and outdoors. It grows on dead plants and food. It can also be found in some air ducts. The fungi can become airborne and cause asthma, hay fever, skin rashes and nail fungus.

Penicillium – Penicillium is one of the most common molds found in homes. It’s found in soil, food, rotting food and dust that can accumulate in the air. Penicillium can cause allergies, infections and even serious health problems in some people.

Memnoniella – Memnoniella is a fungus generally found on wood, paper and cotton. Most often it can be found where the toxic fungi known as stachybotrys is lurking. Because it is associated with the toxic fungi, memnoniella is considered dangerous.

Mucor – Mucor is a fungus that is generally found in animal feces, soil and dust accumulated in the home. Mucor is considered a minor allergen, but people with a weak immune system may develop a lung infection when exposed to the fungi. 

Stachybotrys – Stachybotrys is a black mold that is known as a toxin. This dangerous fungus can be found where moisture lurks in the home. Stachybotrys can cause serious health problems such as headaches, asthma, respiratory infections, memory loss and even death in infants.

While the above are only a few of the many types of mold that are dangerous to our body’s health, not all are bad. Some molds have been used in medicines while others are even edible. It’s just a matter of knowing which is which.