Mildew is a type of fungus that can grow on damp surfaces in your home, such as walls, ceilings, fabrics, and carpets. It thrives in warm, humid conditions and can spread quickly, leaving a musty odor and unsightly stains. If left untreated, mildew can cause health problems, especially for people with allergies or asthma. In this article, we will discuss effective ways to remove mildew and its smell from your home.
Identify the Source
Before you start cleaning mildew, it’s important to find the source of the moisture. Without addressing the underlying issue, mildew will continue to grow even after you’ve cleaned it up. Common sources of moisture include leaks in your roof or plumbing, poor ventilation, and high humidity levels. Once you have identified the source, make necessary repairs and take steps to reduce moisture levels in your home.
Tools You Need
To clean mildew, you’ll need a few basic tools:
- Gloves
- Safety goggles
- Mask or respirator
- Scrub brush
- Bucket
- Bleach
- Vinegar
- Baking soda
- Water
- Soft cloths
Cleaning Mildew from Hard Surfaces
To remove mildew from hard surfaces, such as walls, floors, and tiles, follow these steps:
Step 1: Put on gloves, safety goggles, and a mask or respirator to protect yourself from the mildew and cleaning chemicals.
Step 2: Mix a solution of one part bleach to three parts water in a bucket. Alternatively, you can use vinegar, which is a natural disinfectant. Mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a bucket.
Step 3: Dip a scrub brush in the solution and scrub the mildew stains. If the stains are stubborn, add some baking soda to the solution and continue scrubbing.
Step 4: Rinse the area with clean water and dry it with a soft cloth.
Step 5: Dispose of the gloves, safety goggles, and mask or respirator, and wash your hands thoroughly.
Cleaning Mildew from Fabrics
To remove mildew from fabrics, such as clothing, curtains, and upholstery, follow these steps:
Step 1: Check the care label on the fabric to make sure it can be washed or cleaned with bleach. If the label says “dry clean only” or “do not bleach,” take the fabric to a professional cleaner.
Step 2: Brush off as much mildew as possible with a soft-bristled brush or vacuum cleaner.
Step 3: Mix a solution of one cup of bleach and one gallon of water in a bucket. Alternatively, you can use vinegar. Mix one cup of vinegar and one gallon of water in a bucket.
Step 4: Soak the fabric in the solution for 15-30 minutes. If the fabric is delicate, such as silk or wool, soak it for a shorter period of time or dilute the solution with more water.
Step 5: Rinse the fabric thoroughly with clean water and hang it to dry in a well-ventilated area.
Removing Mildew Smell
Even after you’ve cleaned mildew, its musty smell can linger in your home. To get rid of the smell, follow these steps:
Step 1: Open windows and doors to increase ventilation and let fresh air in.
Step 2: Place bowls of white vinegar or activated charcoal around your home. Both of these natural odor absorbers will help eliminate the mildew smell.
Step 3: Sprinkle baking soda on carpets and upholstery, let it sit for several hours, and then vacuum it up.
Step 4: Use an air purifier with a HEPA filter to trap airborne mold spores and other allergens.