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To start with, mildew is a thin (usually black or white) growth produced on many surfaces by mould. Moulds are simple plants belonging to the fungi group.
Although moulds are always present in the air, those that cause mildew need moisture in the air and certain temperatures in order to grow.
Moulds commonly develop in damp conditions, especially in enclosed areas where ventilation is poor.
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Combating Mould in Larger Areas
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If you remove excess moisture from the air, improve ventilation in a room and provide adequate insulation, you will be making a lot of progress in preventing mould from growing.
The most common method of removing moisture from the air is by using an electric dehumidifier. A range of dehumidifiers are on offer from Mitre 10. Please talk to staff at your local store to find the suitable dehumifier for your sized room.
Where ever possible, leave a window open to let air flow through the room. In winter this can be difficult because it makes the room cold, but at least try to leave one window ajar.
Pink Batts insulation prevents heat loss from walls and ceilings, thereby keeping a room warmer. When the walls and ceiling are warmer, moisture is less likely to condense on these surfaces, so your home is kept dryer.
Click here to read more about Preventing Moisture Problems.
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Combating Mould in Smaller Areas
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Away from the main rooms of the home, the areas that mould and mildew really `enjoy` are closets and the clothes they contain. As moulds grow they cause considerable damage. Mildew secretes an enzyme that decomposes organic matter and uses it for growth and reproduction. It often leaves a musty odour in clothes and causes unsightly black stains and rot.
So how do you get rid of damp in smaller areas (where it would be uneconomic to use dehumidifiers), such as wardrobes, cupboards, closets, etc? Well one tried and true method is to use a low wattage heater or light bulb.
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Cupboard Heaters and Light Bulbs
Air in the closet and other small areas can be dried using an electric light bulb or small heater around about 60 to a maximum of 100watts. The dry heat prevents mildew and mould growth. The disadvantages are that this heat needs to be continuous which of course increases your electricity bill. Plus the bulb or heater needs a power source which may mean laying long extension cords or alternatively wiring in a power socket. Also you need to make sure that the bulb or heater is placed far enough away from clothing and other inflammable materials to avoid the danger of fire.
Chemical Dehumidifiers
The other means of keeping the air dry in small places is to use a chemical dehumidifier such as Damp Rid. Damp Rid is available at your local Mitre10 store.This product is a mineral salt that absorbs more than twice its own weight in air moisture.
If you don`t correct the mildew and mould problem early enough and growth occurs then it will need to be removed. Mildew spots on clothing and fabrics must be removed as soon as they are discovered. Do not give the mould a chance to weaken or rot the fabric. Brush off any surface growth outdoors; this will prevent scattering the mildew spores in the house where they may re-grow. Sun and fresh air are the next part of the treatment, leave the effected fabrics outdoors as long as possible. If any spots remain, dry clean or wash the item. Wash with soap or detergent and water, rinse well and dry in the sun. If any stains remain, use bleach as recommended for the fabric type.
Having used Damp Rid in my home for some years now I have no hesitation in recommending the product, check it out at your local Mitre 10 store.
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