Free of Mildew

My wife Carmen and me, have been cleaning houses for more of 10 years. we would like to start giving some secrets or tips to cleaning better. One of the bigger challenge is when your bathroom has mildew, a type of fungus that be found growing on a multitude of surfaces where moisture and temperature levels are high. Mildew can be black or white color.

What causes mildew

Most mildew are caused by overgrowth of it's close cousin, mold. Poor air circulation, low or non-existent lighting, warm, humid temperatures, grease or body oils left on material, such as shower walls and doors, damp or wet conditions.

You can get control of mildew

Turn on the bathroom fan, that will helps pulls moisture from the air. If you do not have fan, use a dehumidifier, air conditioner, or open a bathroom widow to help circulate air. In winter, turn on the heat. Electric and gas heat will help to dry the bathroom faster and remove excess moisture from the air. Use bathroom lighting before, during and after a shower or hot bath. Mildew does not grow in well-lit areas. Leave lights on fifteen minutes after showering. Leave your shower door open for a while after take a shower. Repaint your bathroom using a mildew proof paint, especially designed for high moisture areas. Put new adhesive caulk, there are cured caulks which are mold and mildew resistant.

How to clean mildew

Scrub the bathroom shower walls and doors with a stiff brush and a solution of bleach and water ( one cup chlorine bleach to five cups hot water). Bleach not only cleans, but kills bacterias, like molds and mildews. You can use regular household bleach or cleaners containing bleach. Chemical mildew-removers can also be effective, but are highly toxic. Remember improperly used of chlorine bleach can damage eyes, skin and lungs. Be sure wear rubber gloves and leave bathroom widows open of fans running during cleaning to provide adequate air exchange.

What to use instead

Seven generation chlorine free bleach, naturally clean mildew enzymes better and Moldstat Plus. Or the vinegar cure, fill an old spray bottle with white vinegar use at full strength to fight mold and mildew.

We hope this secret really help you to clean better and easy your home.


Alejandro and Carmen Abaunza