Something that most people don’t understand is that mold doesn’t come in just one type. Another thing they don’t realize is that mold and mildew are completely different from each other. They look similar and it’s hard for people to distinguish between the two.
However, these are completely different kinds of fungi. They also have different textures and colors. There IS one thing that they’ve got in common, though, and that’s the fact that neither of them is wanted. You won’t find anyone that’s thrilled about the growth of mold or mildew in their home.
Something that mold and mildew have in common is that they both need moist and warm areas to grow. In fact, they grow in lots of the same places. It’s for this reason that people are confused regarding them. Both mold and mildew can grow in your shower, on fabric and paper. The difference is that mildew attaches to showers and fabrics more than mold. Both kinds of fungi can also grow on food but mold affects it more than mildew.
Another similarity is that both mildew and mold spread through disturbing their spores. These spores become airborne and thrive where conditions are right. Mold is typically a black color, although it can also be green or blue. Mildew is generally a white or gray color.
The characteristics of mildew are pretty easy to recognize once you know what you’re looking for. There are 2 kinds: powdery and downy. Powdery mildew looks like patches of gray or white and is generally found on certain flowers and plants. Downy mildew is found mostly on food. The food item determines its appearance. Sometimes it looks like a blob of powder or sugar on food, and can look chalky on leaves.
Mold typically appears fuzzy or slimy according to the type. It’s usually a black color, but can be any one of a variety. This is also true of the shapes of mold. What you’ll typically see are black or green spots in your bathroom in your tub or shower. It may also grow in bathroom tile crevices. While this isn’t usually threatening to your health, if it turns toxic, you must remove the mold quickly.
Mycotoxins are the dangerous ingredient in toxic mold. These can lead to many illnesses. There are some people that it doesn’t affect at all, while others get really sick. Symptoms of mold sickness include coughing, headaches, asthma, and irritation of the eyes and throat. In more serious cases, lung issues, blurred vision and rashes can occur.
All mold and mildew types love dark, wet places. When you destroy their breeding areas, you’ll have no more issues with them. As bathrooms are often wet and poorly ventilated, they’re a common breeding area. Dry your bathroom after every use and get in some fresh air through an open window. This should keep mold and mildew out of your bathroom.