Mildew and mould are both common in the home, but both need to be dealt with differently. It's key that you understand the differences to ensure you address them appropriately.
Unfortunately, they look similar, but there are subtle differences in the methods used to remove mould from walls, ceilings, and other surfaces.
Both mould and mildew can cause a range of problems, including damage to your home and furnishings and health issues. Here, we outline the signs to watch for to differentiate between the two, along with steps to prevent and eliminate them.
Mildew vs mould: How do you identify each?
Mildew is a type of mould, so distinguishing between the two can be tricky in some cases. Thankfully, there are ways to clarify which you are dealing with in your home.
"For the average consumer, understanding the differences between mould and mildew will be difficult," says Meaco’s Managing Director Chris Michael. "Mildew is a form of mould, but it is still a type of mould and as such should be treated in the same way, in that having mould or mildew growth is bad news and is an indication that you have a damp issue."
If you have spotted what you suspect might be mould or mildew, one of the best ways to confirm what you are dealing with is by observing its appearance. However, there are other ways to tell them apart. Each smells different, and they react differently to certain cleaning solutions.
Chris Michael, founder and managing director of Meaco, has over 30 years of experience in the air treatment sector. Meaco's extensive product line is available in more than 20 countries, including regions across Europe, North America, and South Africa.
Jonathan is a developmental chemist and mould expert at Dryzone. From mould advice to masonry protection, he has dedicated himself to helping protect UK housing stock through the development of new and innovative products.
Try these products to help get rid of mould and mildew
A powerful formula that helps destroy mould spores and get rid of stains left by mould in seconds. Unscented it can be used on a wide range of surfaces for a clean finish.
A low energy dehumidifier that is cheaper to run. Is ultra-quiet and coms with a 4.8L water tank and 20L per day extraction rate.
A compact 100mm extractor fan suitable for wall and ceiling fitting in bathrooms, shower rooms and toilets. Fan complies with Part F of Building Regulations and it is IPx4 rated.
What does mould and mildew look and smell like?
While mildew and mould are both a nuisance, they are different, and you need to be able to identify them so you know how to treat them. Dr Jonathan Kirby, Mould expert at Dryzone, explains the differences. “Mould differs from mildew, another household fungus, in both appearance and texture.” He adds, “Mould is typically slimy or fuzzy, while mildew tends to be white or grey with a dry, powdery texture.
In addition to appearance, smell and location can also help identify which fungus you have. “Mildew has a lighter, musty odour similar to damp towels, whereas mould produces a much stronger smell.” He adds, “Mould is also more difficult to remove as it burrows into materials, while mildew mainly grows on top of materials.
Mould can appear pretty much anywhere, but mould on skirting boards, in bathrooms and around windows is particularly common.
What causes mould and mildew?
The causes of mould and mildew are much the same – excess humidity and moisture, poor ventilation and a lack of natural light can all contribute to the problem. Condensation can also cause mould and mildew to form – particularly around windows and in bathrooms. Getting to grips with how to stop condensation will go a long way towards preventing either from forming.
"Mould and/or mildew will form when the surface it is growing on has too high a moisture content," explains Chris Michael from Meaco. "How fast the mould or mildew grows will be determined by the room's relative humidity (rh). If it is above 68%rh then the mould will get larger, if it is below 68%rh then it will stop growing."
There is often an underlying cause of excess moisture – if you can work out what it is and rectify the problem, you should be able to stop both mould and mildew in their tracks.
"Why is the moisture content too high in your house? Where has that moisture come from? If it is around a window, for example, is this because of crack in the wall on the outside that is allowing rain to get in?" suggests Chris Michael. "Do you have blocked gutters? Or is it because the room itself is constantly damp due to a lack of home ventilation or clothes being dried in the space?"
How do you prevent mould and mildew?
Happily, there are plenty of steps you can take to reduce the risk of mildew or mould from forming in your home.
Good ventilation is essential in the battle against both mildew and mould – regularly open windows to allow air to circulate and ensure your bathroom and kitchen have good extractor fans.
An underlying damp problem will also cause mould to eventually appear. If you suspect this could be the issue, finding out what causes damp will be really useful – sometimes, simply fixing a leaking downpipe or gutter could put a stop to your damp and mould problems for good.
Investing in a dehumidifier, like this 20L one from Meaco on Appliances Direct, can also be a great way to ensure the relative humidity in your home remains at the right levels.
How do you remove mildew?
Mildew is easier to remove from surfaces than mould, provided you treat it as soon as you spot it. If left untreated, it can escalate and spread.
Lee Keet, Founder of Vapor Clean Ltd, suggests how to remove mildew. “The key is addressing surface moisture and ventilation.”
He adds, “Mild cases can usually be treated by cleaning the affected area with warm water and a suitable cleaning solution, then thoroughly drying the surface. Improving airflow and reducing condensation are essential to stop it returning.”
Lee Keet started as a hands on cleaning technician, building a leading cleaning services business. Gaining hands on knowledge and training in a range of cleaning aspects, from eco-friendly products to best practices.
How do you get rid of mould?
When it comes to how to remove mould from walls, things can be a little tricker than removing mildew. Keet points out, “Removing mould requires a more thorough approach. The visible mould needs to be properly removed, but the underlying cause, such as leaks, condensation, or high humidity, must also be fixed.”
He adds, “Without resolving the moisture issue, mould will continue to recur, regardless of how many times it is cleaned.”
A solution of warm water and washing-up liquid can work wonders. However, this is really only a viable option for light, surface mould. If it has penetrated deeper into the paint on a wall or the surface it is on, a stronger approach will be required.
A solution of bleach and water usually works well, as will a specialist product, such as HG Mould Spray from Amazon.
If the surface is porous, Keet says, “Porous materials may need specialist treatment or replacement if contamination is deep.”
Once you resolve your mould or mildew issue, you can begin restoring the room. Check out our guides on painting skirting boards, painting a wall, and painting over water stains to achieve a like-new finish.
