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herlife | health
How To Identify and Combat Household
Mold and Mildew
by candi smith
Have you ever walked into someone’s home and immediately recognized a dank smell
similar to one you find in antique shop, reminiscent of things that have been hidden
away in attics and basements for a very long time? Well, believe it or not, fungus growing
in one’s home has nothing to do the length of time it’s been there. It’s all about moisture
and the circumstances that allow mold and mildew to grow, often in a relatively short amount of
time.
First off, it’s helpful to know the differences between mold and mildew. Mold is a fungus
that grows in a form that looks like filaments. It is usually fuzzy in appearance, and varies in
color from orange, green, black, brown, pink or purple. Mildew is actually a form of mold
which grows flatly and is usually downy or powdery. Downy mildew starts out yellow in color,
and then eventually fades to brown. Powdery mildew starts whitish in color, then becomes yellowish
brown, and eventually turns black.
Mold has been proven to cause health problems such as allergic reactions and respiratory
problems due to the toxins it releases. Mold derives its energy from food and other organic
products, and its spores are released into the air. It’s hardy and virulent, and able to survive in
extreme conditions. By the time a person smells a musty odor and is able to see the mold, it’s
already cultivated into colonies with its spores.
Mildew usually causes more harm to
plants and crops than humans, but it’s been
proven that the inhalation of mildew causes
headaches, lung problems, coughing and a
scratchy throat. It can grow just about anywhere
that moisture content is high such as
clothing, leather, shower curtains, paper and
window sills.
Both mold and mildew are the result of
moisture, so it’s important to keep your home
dry and moisture-free. This can be accomplished
by using a dehumidifier, removing
perishable foods within three to four days, or
By the time a person
smells a musty odor
and is able to see
the mold, it’s already
cultivated into colonies
with its spores.
by purchasing mildew removers at a hardware
store. Areas in the home that are prone
to collect moisture are those where plants
are grown, basements and cold areas which
harbor condensation.
According to the Centers for Disease Control,
individuals who are prone to allergies,
who have asthma or other respiratory illnesses,
20 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM