What is mildew and why is it a problem?
Mildew is the generic name for a few types of fungi (itty bitty plants) that grow readily on moist surfaces. Once it invades your home, it spreads rapidly on surfaces and reproduces itself by releasing airborne spores… the fungal equivalent of seeds. Mildew growth can deteriorate wood, paper and leather. It can also live very nicely on paint (it’s favorite is latex), penetrating though the paint’s pores into the wallboard paper or absorbent plaster below. It is often found in bathrooms, kitchens, basements, crawlspaces and even attics… anywhere there is high humidity, low ventilation, and a suitable growing medium. Though heat does accelerate mildew’s growth (why the tropical atmosphere of a steamy bathroom is so attractive), some types can grow and thrive at temperatures near freezing! Mildew is a huge problem with books, magazines and furniture. Did you ever store books or an upholstered couch in a damp basement for any length of time? Phew! (Or if you were a fungus, you might re
