How to Control Mildew Odor

The only way to properly--and permanently--control mildew odor, is to not have mildew living in your home. Mildew is saprotropic, that is, gathering their food from moist, dead organic matter. There are four things needed for mildew to grow: oxygen, a food source, appropriate temperature range and moisture. There must be enough moisture for the mildew to germinate, and there must be continued moisture for the mildew to maintain growth. Unfortunately, musty mildew odor can be smelled before the mildew has fully formed.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Bleaching powder, such as Ajax
• Household bleach

1. Keep possible mildew-growing areas as clean as possible. Soil on clothing and grease splatter in the kitchen are high food sources for mildew microorganisms.

2. Remove excess moisture. This is the second main mildew-causing ingredient that people have control over. Simple day-to-day duties release three gallons of water into the air every day. Proper ventilation is a key part in stopping mildew growth.

3. Remove current mildew odor. In basements: use bleaching powder by spreading the powder over the floor. Leave it until the smell disappears, sweep it up and throw it away. For bathroom smells: use a mixture of 1 cup of household bleach and 1 gallon of water. Clean, rinse, and dry completely. In either case, open windows and allow ventilation into the area.

Tips & Warnings

• The two areas that most people have control over is moisture and cleanliness. Mildew grows in temperatures between 40 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Removing oxygen from an area is unreasonable.

References

• Mold Basics
• Mildew Prevention and Removal