- In common usage, the words "mold" and "mildew" are used to describe slimy or velvety fungal growths inside or outside the home, sometimes accompanied by a strong musty odor and ranging in color from light gray to dark green. There are variations in usage, though. "Mildew" more commonly refers to growth occurring in a bathroom or on fabrics, while "mold" more commonly refers to growth on other household surfaces, according to the Housekeeping Channel.
- A report from the University of Missouri Extension describes mildew as the "growth produced by mold." In other words, the mold spores themselves are microscopic and travel through dirt particles, but when they bond with moisture and germinate, they begin to take shape, forming into a patchy discoloration called mildew. On the other hand, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) describes mildew as "mold in early stage."
- The FEMA definition falls most in line with the common usage of the terms "mold" and "mildew," because mildew more commonly describes small patches of mold on a household surface. On the other hand, mold in later stages has had the chance to germinate and colonize, usually requiring professional treatment. Whole books have been written about the dangers of black mold, but nobody refers to it as "black mildew."
- Mold and mildew do not describe different types of spores, because any type of mold spore can manifest itself as a thin mildew at first. Rather, the terms connote different stages of development, growth or urgency. While the experts may differ slightly on the exact definitions of each term, all mold spores can potentially grow and colonize, so make sure to treat all fungal infestations immediately, from the most widespread mold to the simplest mildew.
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