How to Stop Mildew

Mildew is caused by mold and can occur on walls, ceilings, wood products, fabrics and just about any surface. Mildew can be black, green or white and either dry or wet and slimy. Damp conditions contribute to the development of mildew, so in order to stop the growth of mildew, keeping your home dry is a necessity. Drying out your home can be achieved in a number of ways that range from inexpensive and easy to more costly and involved if your mildew is widespread.

Things You'll Need

• Dish soap Sponge Towels Antibacterial wipes Floor cleaner Mop Clothesline Air conditioner or dehumidifier Silica gel Lemon juice Salt

Instructions

Stop Mildew From Forming in Your Home

1. Stop mildew from forming by withholding the nutrients that allow it to grow--mainly, dirt, grease and other types of soiling messes. Sponge down countertops and other surfaces that may suffer from spills and spatters after preparing meals. Clean with dish detergent and water, dry with a towel and wipe down with an antibacterial wipe.

2. Keep your floor clean to stop current mildew growth and to prevent further incidences. Mop on a regular basis so that sticky residue does not have a chance to turn into mold and mildew.

3. Wash wet clothing promptly instead of letting it sit in a damp pile. Dampness is a prime environment for the beginnings of mildew. Dry clean clothing thoroughly in a clothes dryer or on a clothesline before putting away.

4. Remove excess humidity from the air in your home to reduce the risk of developing mold and mildew. Keep your air conditioner on to make the air drier. If you do not have air conditioning, install a dehumidifier in your home.

5. Turn on an exhaust fan in your bathroom while taking a shower. The fan helps keep the walls and ceilings free of mildew in a naturally humid and damp location.

Remove Mildew From Household Items

1. Brush off solid mold or mildew with a towel.

2. Wash machine-washable mildewed fabrics according to the care instructions, then allow them to dry in the sun. Sun is a natural bleaching agent that will kill mold.

3. Dab a solution of 1 tsp. salt mixed into 1 cup of lemon juice onto a mildew stain. Let the item dry in the sun to stop the mildew.

4. Stop mildew that has formed on upholstered furniture with a vacuum cleaner. Vacuum the area well several times to try to pull out all of the mold spores that are buried in the weave of the fabric. Dump the vacuum bag or canister outside to avoid re-infesting the house.