Mildew

In detail

Mildew is the term used for the flat, powdery or downy growth that forms on damp surfaces — fabric, grout, leather, shower curtains, tent canvas — as distinct from the raised, patchy colonies usually called mould. The distinction is not a mycological one and the two words are used loosely, but the practical difference is real: mildew tends to sit on the surface and to have started recently, which is why it often responds to treatment that leaves an established mould growth untouched. Two findings matter. The first is that the carpet institute's mildew procedure opens with a detergent solution and moves to an ammonia solution, and names no bleach anywhere in the entry — which is worth knowing on a soft surface where bleach would remove the colour along with the growth. The second is the one every mould authority repeats: treatment addresses what is visible, and the growth returns on the same schedule unless the moisture that produced it is dealt with. On fabric, mildew that has been left long enough to weaken the fibre or to stain it permanently is past the point where cleaning helps, because the organism has digested part of the material.

What works

• Moisture control is effective against Mildew Strongly supported

Why

• Mildew is explained by Moisture control and recurrence
• Mildew is explained by Porous and non-porous surfaces
• Mildew is explained by Organic load

Aftercare and prevention

• Moisture control helps prevent Mildew
• Machine washing helps prevent Mildew
• Conditioning helps prevent Mildew

Hacks and claims involving this

• Running bleach through a washing machine to clean it Disputed
• Borax for mould Unresolved
• Freezing kills mould Does not work
• Killing the mould solves the problem Does not work