Mildew is thin and ranges in color from whitish to bluish green. It can be found on many surfaces. Molds that cause mildew prefer areas that are damp, warm, poorly lighted or where air is not circulated. These areas include basements, crawl spaces and closets. Draperies, shower curtains and rugs are also areas where mildew is often found.
Hosts are anything from which molds can get enough food to grow. Theses include cellulose products such as cotton, linen, wood, paper and protein substances like silk, leather and wool.
Along with an unpleasant musty odor, mold and mildew cause considerable damage if they are permitted to grow. They discolor fabrics and sometimes eat into them until the fabrics rot and fall apart. Leather, paper and wood also become discolored and are eventually damaged by mold and mildew.
On clothing and fabrics, remove mildew spots as soon as you discover them. Brush off surface growth outdoors to prevent scattering the spores in the house. Sun and air fabrics thoroughly. If any mildew spots remain on washable items, try one of the following treatments:
· Treat washable articles by moistening the stain with lemon juice. Then, spread on salt and place in the sun to dry. Rinse thoroughly. Be careful when using this method on colored garments.
· Another method to use if a stain remains is to mix one-tablespoon of sodium perborate bleach safe for (all color) and one pint water. If the fabric can stand hot water, use it. If not, use lukewarm water. Sponge or soak the stained area. Allow the bleach mixture to remain on the stain one-half hour and then rinse. Be sure to test on colored fabrics first.
· For fabrics that can endure chlorine bleach, mix two tablespoons chlorine bleach with one quart of warm water. Sponge the solution into the stain or soak. Allow the bleach to remain on the fabric for 5 to 15 minutes, then rinse. Never use chlorine bleach on silk, wool or spandex fabrics. Once the pre-treatment is completed, wash the mildew-stained articles at once with soap and water, rinse them well and dry in the sun. For non-washable articles, dry cleaning is recommended.
Prevention is the best mildew policy. By keeping things clean, dry and well ventilated, your chances of having mildew are greatly reduced.
Debbie Wilburn is County Agent/Family and Consumer Science Agent with the Hall (770)535-8290 and the Forsyth (770)887-2418 County Extension Service.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2003/3/182227