Mildew and mold are both a type of fungi. Since they belong to the same family, they do have some similarities, but they are also distinguished by a few differences.

In this post, we’re going to discuss the similarities and differences between both mildew and mold, and explain how to eradicate each in Bedford Park, Illinois.

Similarities Between Mold and Mildew

Both mold and mildew thrive in areas where the light source is poor or non-existent, temperatures are moderate to low, and humidity levels are high.

Both types of fungi reproduce by releasing spores that spread in the air and settle on suitable materials such as wood, curtains, upholstery, carpeting, foods, or any organic material that is porous so that they can develop their colonies.

They usually cannot grow on synthetic materials such as metal-based products or plastic substances.

Differences Between Mold and Mildew

The primary difference between mold and mildew is appearance.

Mold is generally yellow, black, or green in color, and slimy in texture. Severe mold growth begins to look plant-like or resembles moss, and in adverse cases, can begin to eat away or decay the cellular level of the host.

On the other hand, mildew is a gray or white substance that is fuzzy or powdery in texture. Powdery mildew is generally found on the leaves of plants that are sick. They feed on the organic cells of the leaves, which can slowly decay the entire plant when left untreated.

How Harmful are Mold and Mildew?

Mold is known to be toxic for the host material, as well as the people living in a mold-infested household.

As mold grows, it releases a toxic substance known as mycotoxin into the environment. Long-term exposure to mycotoxin can cause symptoms such as eye irritation, high fever, skin irritation, shortness of breath, and other allergic reactions.

Similarly (although not as severe), someone who inhales mildew spores may have minor health issues such as coughing, trouble breathing, or headaches.

How to Test for Mold and Mildew?

One of the easiest ways to identify if you have mold or mildew is by testing with household bleach on the suspected area. Simply add a few drops and wait for a few minutes before checking the spot.

• If it remains dark, mold has developed in the area
• If it becomes lighter, you have mildew in the home

If you believe your home is infested with mold or mildew and are not sure about the best eradication method to take, it is highly recommended that you hire a professional Bedford park mold remediation company for assistance.

How to Eradicate Mold and Mildew in Your Home?

When trying to remove mold or mildew in your home, you should consider the level of difficulty in getting rid of each fungus.

Mildew is easy to clean and can be removed by a good scrubbing brush and a mildew cleaner. Ensure that you are wearing a facial mask and are working in a well-insulated area so that you are not inhaling any mildew spores. Also, use rubber gloves to avoid mildew and cleaning agents from coming into direct contact with your hands. Additionally, clean the surrounding area to ensure that all of the fungus has been successfully removed.

Mold, on the other hand, is not superficial. It attaches to the material, and its microscopic filaments penetrate beneath the surface. Therefore, it is not something that an individual might be able to handle. Mold removal is a bigger task and is best left to professionals.

Looking for a Mold Remediation Company in Bedford Park?

Is your home or business space under attack by mold? If you are in need of a mold removal expert in Bedford Park, then Axis Response Group is the company to call.

Our team has removed mold in numerous commercial and residential properties in the Bedford Park area. We can help to completely eradicate any mold that exists within your property.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment!