If you check cleaning agents, you will see that they would specify on their labels that they are for mold and mildew. People have a misconception when dealing with mold vs mildew: from recognizing the differences between them to how to clean it up safely. It is because they are usually mentioned together, and it is for this reason that they are mistaken as the same thing. So what is the difference between mold and mildew?

Mold vs mildew

1. Health effects of mold vs mildew

Prolonged exposure to mold spores can lead to various health problems, such as allergic reactions and respiratory issues, due to the toxins (mycotoxins) it produces. Mildew can cause damage to crops and other plants it infests. Inhalation of mildew can cause coughing, headache, scratchy throat, and lung issues. Mildew can also start growing in the lungs, affecting severe other health problems.

2. Mold and mildew in appearance

Mildew generally grows in a flat pattern and appears either powdery or fluffy. It can be easily identified as a patch of white, gray, or yellowish fungus lying on a moist surface. Mold is generally fuzzy or slimy in appearance. It appears as irregularly shaped spots that can have different colors – blue, green, yellow, brown, gray, black, or white. Usually, surfaces that are covered in mold begin to rot.

3. Exposure symptoms of mildew and mold in air vent

Mold in air vent lead to many health problems, such as allergic reactions, respiratory problems (difficulty breathing, coughing, asthma attacks), heart problems, migraines, depression, and more. Mildew exposure poses fewer health risks – coughing, headaches, sore throat, and respiratory problems. However, like mold, prolonged exposure can create more severe symptoms. 

4. How dangerous is mildew and mold vent?

Mildew generally does far less damage and is easier to eliminate than mold. Naturally, a good cleaner and a bit of scrubbing are all you need. However, mold vs mildew causes permanent damage to the materials it grows on and usually requires replacement. In addition, you may need professional service to handle mold vent damage safely.

5. Affect on surfaces

Mold and mildew have various effects on the surfaces that they grow on. For example, we could find mildew growth on plants, fabric, and paper. Mildew may not have a long-lasting impact on these surfaces and can be cleaned off by simply removing the transition from the surface. Mold has a more drastic effect on surfaces that it impacts. Mold can penetrate the structures of your home, causing even more damage than you can see. If ignored for too long, this can replace major structural components of your home.

Wrapping it up

When combatting mold and mildew at home, paying particular attention to high-moisture areas is essential. However, if you’re worried that the mold vs mildew problem is too big for you to handle, or if there’s a chance more mold might be living elsewhere in your home, don’t hesitate to call a professional. Hire Fairfax Air Cleaning, an experienced company that can provide quality service at the most reasonable price.