Causes of Mildew
Mildew is a thin, usually black, sometimes white, growth produced on many
kinds of surfaces by molds. Molds are simple plants belonging to the group known as fungi. Though molds are always present
in the air, those that cause mildew need moisture and certain temperatures in order to grow. They commonly develop in humid
summer weather, especially in houses that are closed. They grow fastest at temperatures between 75 F. and 85 F. Sunlight helps
kill mildew.
These molds grow on anything from which they can get enough food. In homes they develop most often on
cotton, linen, rayon, silk, wool, leather, wood, and paper. Many synthetic fibers are resistant to mildew.
Molds that
cause mildew flourish wherever it is damp, warm, poorly lighted, and/or where air is not circulated--in cellars, crawl spaces
or houses without basements, and clothing closets; on draperies and rugs in basement recreation rooms, on shower curtains,
and on damp clothes rolled up for ironing. These molds are also likely in a newly built house because of moisture in the building
materials.
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