Mold vs Mildew

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

Mold vs Mildew

The growth of mold and mildew is one of the most common household problems. Mold and mildew typically grow in areas where there’s moisture, such as basements, bathrooms, and kitchens. Mildew is a type of fungus that grows on plants and is often associated with damp environments such as bathrooms or basements. On the other hand, mold can grow anywhere there’s moisture as it requires little light to survive. What is the difference between mold and mildew? 

The differences between them go beyond their appearance. 

Mold and mildew are both fungi that grow on surfaces. They can be found all over the world in places like bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and attics. Both mold and mildew thrive in damp environments with high humidity levels.

Mold is a fungus that grows in damp, dark areas such as your bathroom shower or basement floors. It's composed of tiny threads called hyphae that spread across surfaces where moisture collects — like wallpaper or wood cabinets — creating colonies called spore molds (also known as mycelium). These spores can float through the air until they land on another surface where they will continue to grow under the right conditions. 

Mold is usually black or brown, but it can also be white, blue or green. When mold has grown into a large colony it may have a fuzzy appearance similar to the coat on an animal (hence why some people refer to it as "fur" or "hair").

What is mildew?

Mildew is a type of fungus that grows on plants, fabrics, paper, and other materials. It can cause damage to these items. Mildew looks like tiny white or gray spots and is most commonly seen as a powdery substance on houseplants or in bathrooms and kitchens where humidity levels are high. 

How to tell mold from mildew

How can you tell the difference between mold and mildew? The easiest way is by looking at their appearance.

Mold is fuzzy, either black or green (or both), while mildew is powdery and usually gray or white. Molds are capable of spreading through spores in the air, while mildews grow on organic materials such as wood, paper, and plants. Mildew can be found growing inside your shower near the top edge of the glass where it meets metal pipes:

there are several methods to remove it:

If you have either, you need to address it immediately.

Mold and mildew can cause extensive damage to your home or business, so if you suspect either is in your home, you should address it immediately. Mildew tends to be more common on the exterior of buildings and other structures because it’s found in moist areas with stagnant air, like bathrooms or kitchens. Mold can grow anywhere there’s moisture, but it prefers dark places such as basements or closets where there’s not much air circulation.

SERVPRO of Northeast Minneapolis is here to help with all your mold remediation and mold cleanup needs in Minneapolis, MN, and surrounding areas!