Mildew Removal

Successful mildew removal is more than just scrubbing away the stains caused by this unsightly blight. If you want to really get rid of a mildew problem, you have to remove the conditions that caused it to grow in the first place.

For the sake of this article we will refer to the mold and "mildew" as it relates to laymen and the discoloration caused by mold in their homes and other buildings. In this instance, that mold that grows around your windows or along the caulk line of the tub or tiles in your bathroom--that indoor mold--is mildew. If left untreated mildew can ruin:

• Paper
• Fabrics
• Wood
• Paint
• Wallpaper glue
• Leather

The thing that makes mildew destructive is an enzyme it secretes. This enzyme decomposes organic matter and uses it as food. This spurs growth and reproduction. Mildew removal is the only way to stop the spread of this unsightly and unhealthy problem.

The first step in getting rid of mildew is to remove excess moisture. Things like cooking, taking a shower and doing the laundry all add moisture to your indoor environment. If you have a problem with moisture condensation anywhere in your house, it's best to seek professional help to correct the problem.

Otherwise, running the air conditioner helps to remove moisture from the air. If you don't have AC then run a dehumidifier. These work great in basements and crawl spaces. Also, you can take precautionary measures like drying the shower walls and doors after each shower to cut down on humidity and standing water.

For small places like closets, you can purchase moisture-absorbing products like Damp Rid. All you have to do is hang it in your closet or set it on the shelf. You can actually see the water it pulls from the air, when the lower chamber is filled with water all you have to do is replace it with a new one.

One key point to keep in mind is that it is best to get rid of mildew spots as soon as you notice them. If the mildew is on an item that can be brought outside, take it out and brush it outdoors to avoid spreading the spores in your house.

Wash fabric with soap and water, rinse well and dry in the sun. If any stain remains, use one of the following bleaches:

1. Moisten stain with lemon juice, then treat it with salt and put the fabric in the sun. When dry, rinse. (Care should be taken when used on colored fabrics.)
2. Mix one tablespoon sodium perborate bleach with one pint of water. Hot water works best if it won't hurt your fabric. Apply the mixture to the stained area with a sponge. Let it set for 30 minutes and rinse. (Test it on colored fabrics first).
3. Two tablespoons of chlorine bleach mixed with one quart of warm water can also be used. Sponge the mixture onto the stain or soak the fabric. After five to 15 minutes, depending on the stain, rinse.

Mildew removal can be a little more difficult if it has grown under the paint or varnish on the affected wood surface. If that is the case, be sure to remove the paint from the stained areas and then treat it with a solution of:

• 8-10 tablespoons of trisodium phosphate
• 1 cup chlorine bleach
• 1 gallon of water

When using this mixture, be sure to protect your hands with rubber gloves.

If the stain appears on unfinished wood, clean the surface with a mild alkali.

Mildew removal from unsealed grout can be a challenge, but it is still easier than removing grout. Once you get it cleaned and dried be sure to seal the grout to make cleaning easier in the future.

1. Zap is a cleaning concentrate that works well and is easy to use. Apply to grout, let it stand for about 10 minutes, and scrub with a stiff brush.
2. Sprinkle baking soda directly onto the stained grout, add vinegar to produce a fizz. Follow up by scrubbing with a brush.
3. Kleen Strip Green for mildew is an excellent product for this job and it doesn't require scrubbing. You can find it at Home Depot in the paint section.

Once you've eliminated the mildew, the best way to avoid a recurrence is to keep things clean and dry. Soil found on articles may provide enough food for mildew to start growing. If temperature and moisture are right mildew will flourish. Even the greasy film on your kitchen walls can supply nutrients for mildew-causing molds.

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