How to Combat and Prevent Mildew in Your Home

Mildew is a common household problem, especially in areas that are damp, warm, and poorly ventilated. Not only can mildew be unsightly, but it can also pose health risks and damage your home over time. The good news is, with the right strategies, you can effectively combat and prevent mildew from taking hold in your living spaces. Here’s how you can keep your home mildew-free and safe.

1. Control Moisture Levels

The primary cause of mildew is excess moisture. Keeping your home dry is the first step in preventing mildew from developing. Here’s how you can control moisture:

• Use a Dehumidifier: Dehumidifiers help reduce the moisture in the air, particularly in high-humidity areas like basements, bathrooms, and laundry rooms.

• Ventilate Properly: Make sure to open windows or use exhaust fans in areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens. Good ventilation allows moisture to escape and prevents dampness.

• Fix Leaks: Check for any leaky pipes, faucets, or roofs and repair them immediately. Even small leaks can lead to damp spots where mildew thrives.

  
  

2. Improve Air Circulation

Poor airflow can trap moisture, especially in corners, closets, and under sinks. Here are a few ways to improve air circulation throughout your home:

• Keep Doors Open: Keep the doors of rooms like bathrooms and closets open when not in use to allow air to flow freely.

• Use Fans: Ceiling fans, standing fans, and even bathroom exhaust fans can help air circulate and dry out areas faster after showers, cooking, or laundry.

• Space Furniture Properly: Don’t place furniture flush against walls; leave some space for air to move behind and around large pieces of furniture.

3. Regular Cleaning

Cleaning areas prone to moisture buildup is a key preventative measure for mildew. Here are some tips for keeping these areas clean:

• Use Mildew-Resistant Cleaners: In areas like showers, sinks, and tiled floors, use a mildew-resistant cleaner to scrub surfaces and prevent mildew growth.

• Wash Fabrics Regularly: Towels, shower curtains, and rugs should be washed regularly, especially if they’re in humid areas. Opt for materials that dry quickly.

• Wipe Down Surfaces: After using the bathroom or kitchen, wipe down any wet surfaces to prevent moisture buildup. This is especially important in areas where mildew is likely to grow, such as around faucets, on countertops, and in the shower.

4. Seal Cracks and Gaps

Mildew can grow in cracks, crevices, and gaps where moisture tends to gather. Sealing these areas will help keep mildew at bay.

• Caulk Around Windows and Doors: Sealing windows, doors, and other gaps will prevent water from seeping in during rainy or humid conditions.

• Repair Damaged Grout: If the grout between your bathroom or kitchen tiles is cracked or broken, repair it to prevent water from penetrating and causing mildew.

5. Keep Outdoor Areas Clean

Mildew can start outside and make its way into your home, particularly during damp weather. Here’s how to combat outdoor mildew:

• Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Clogged gutters can cause water to pool around the foundation of your home, leading to moisture problems indoors. Make sure gutters and downspouts are clear and functioning properly.

• Trim Vegetation: Keep bushes, trees, and plants trimmed away from the exterior walls of your house. Overgrown vegetation can trap moisture and encourage mildew growth on siding and roofing.

6. Monitor Humidity Levels

Keeping an eye on your home’s humidity levels is one of the most effective ways to prevent mildew. Ideally, indoor humidity should be between 30-50%. Here are some ways to monitor and manage humidity:

• Use a Hygrometer: A hygrometer is an inexpensive tool that measures the humidity level in your home. If levels are too high, consider using a dehumidifier or improving ventilation.

• Avoid Overwatering Plants: Houseplants can increase humidity, especially if they’re overwatered. Use pots with proper drainage and avoid letting water accumulate in saucers.

7. Address Mold and Mildew Immediately

If you notice any mildew starting to form, act quickly to prevent it from spreading. Clean the area thoroughly with a mixture of water and vinegar or a specialized mildew cleaner. For larger mildew or mold problems, it’s best to call a professional to inspect the extent of the damage and clean it up safely.

Schedule a Home Inspection Today!

If you're dealing with recurring mildew or simply want to prevent it before it becomes a problem, it’s important to have your home inspected by professionals. At Burns and Sons Maintenance Company, we specialize in identifying and addressing mildew and moisture issues in homes. Whether it’s inspecting for hidden leaks, improving

ventilation, or recommending the right solutions, we’re here to help protect your home.

Contact us today to schedule a free home inspection and ensure your home remains healthy and mildew-free.