Michigan State University Extension
Home Maintenance And Repair - 01500037
06/24/03
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.
This article was written by Anne Field, Extension
Specialist, Emeritus, with reference from the USDA
bulletin, Mildew.
This information is for educational purposes only. References
to commercial products or trade names does not imply
endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not
mentioned. This information becomes public property upon
publication and may be printed verbatim with credit to MSU
Extension. Reprinting cannot be used to endorse or advertise
a commercial product or company.
MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer. Michigan State
University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race,
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Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in
cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Thomas G. Coon, Director,
MSU Extension, East Lansing,MI 48824. This information is for educational
purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply
endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned.
This file was generated from data base 02 on 02/04/08.
Data base 02 was last revised on 06/24/03.
For more information about this data base or its contents please contact
strausc@msu.edu .