The Dangers Caused By Mold And Mildew Throughout Your Home

A musty odour throughout your home can indicate that you have a mold or mildew problem, and this needs to be fixed quickly in order to prevent a variety of health problems in your family and pets. Mold and mildew spores that are breathed in can cause a lot of harm, and that is why it is so important to take the right steps to prevent mold and mildew from forming in the first place. And it is just as important to quickly get rid of mold and mildew as soon as you find it.

The Difference Between Mold and Mildew

Before learning about the dangers that can be caused by mold and mildew, it is important to know what the differences are between them.

Mildew is a type of mold. It is typically white or gray in appearance. It prefers damp surfaces and is, therefore, most often found on bathroom walls, but can also be found on fabric and leather. Mildew is also typically powdery or downy. Powdery mildew will typically start off white in colour before turning to yellowish brown and then black. Downy mildew on the other hand, starts off as yellow spots that eventually get brighter and then turn brown.

Mold is a type of fungus. It can appear in a variety of colours, including purple, pink, black, brown, green, and orange, and it has a fuzzy texture.

Preventing Mold and Mildew in the First Place

To prevent mildew, you should keep all of the areas throughout your home dry. This includes areas in your bathroom and kitchen, in particular. You also want to be sure that you use mildew cleaners regularly.

In the same way, preventing mold includes maintaining a dry, clean home. Control humidity with a dehumidifier if necessary, keep food properly stored, and throw away food items that have passed their expiration date.

The Dangers of Mold and Mildew Exposure

Exposure to both mold and mildew over extended periods of time can result in a variety of health ailments. Most commonly, the inhalation of mildew can eventually lead to lung problems, headaches, coughing, and a scratchy sensation in the throat.

Mold, too, can cause serious health issues. If you inhale mold spores, you may be exposing your body to harmful mycotoxins. These can cause severe allergic reactions and serious respiratory issues and may even result in death. Other ailments that mold and mildew cause can also include depression and nervous system disorders.

What To Do If Mold is a Problem

If mold is a serious problem in your home that you cannot tackle on your own, you should call in a mold removal company that has the equipment necessary to eradicate the mold so that you can have your home back.

Mold and mildew can cause serious health problems, so you need to take the proper steps to prevent it from forming, and you also need to do your best to clean it up once it has formed. Understanding how mold and mildew form will help you tackle the prevention of these hazards more easily.