Clever Clarissa’s Household Tips & Advice

Mildew is a fungus commonly found both inside and outside the home. It can attach itself to a wide range of surfaces including aluminum siding, asphalt tiling, concrete, wood, paint, ceramics, fabrics made from natural fibers, leather, vinyl and paper. Some materials are resistant to mildew: enamel, plastic, fabric made from synthetic fibers or treated with a mildew-resistant finish, commercial paste for paper and fabric wall coverings, mildew-resistant paint (keep well away from children!) and others.

Mildew grows in warm, humid environments (75-85 degrees F). The best way to prevent it is to get rid of the dampness by removing the source of moisture, ventilating the area adequately and/or drying the air. Cleanliness is of the utmost importance since soil and greasy films such as are found in the kitchen and bathroom, are a source of food for the mildew.

Chlorine bleach is the very best antidote, to be used with caution since it is highly corrosive. Hydrogen peroxide, rubbing alcohol and household detergents are gentler and may well be effective. Some cases are hopeless and you will have no choice but to throw away the severely mildewed items.

How to Get Rid of Mildew: It’s as Easy as 1, 2, 3

• Expose the affected area to sunshine or artificial lighting.
• Introduce fresh air and promote circulation (if necessary, use a fan to increase air movement).
• If necessary, turn-up the heat or dry the affected area with a hair dryer.
• Remove the mildew with a soft cloth, a brush or a broom (do this out-of-doors, if possible, to avoid scattering mildew spores and dust in the house) and finish with a vacuum cleaner.
• Clean the area using a household cleaning agent adapted to the material affected – i.e., saddle soap for leather, all-purpose cleaner for walls or floors, laundry detergent for apparel, rug shampoo for carpeting, etc.
• If the previous measure is insufficient, apply a mixture of 1 part hydrogen peroxide and 2 parts water. For leather, use 1 part rubbing alcohol to 1 part of water.
• If the previous measure is insufficient, apply a mixture of chlorine bleach and water (use as weak a mixture as possible).
• Rinse well and dry thoroughly.
• Use a room air freshener or deodorizer if a musty smell persists.

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