Difference Between Mold and Mildew
Mold and Mildew are types of Fungus that grow in dump and moist places. Both of these are quite similar and this is why it is difficult to differentiate them. Some of them are used in making medicines while others may cause infections and diseases.
The basic difference between the two is that Mildew is not colorful like molds. Mold is the fungus that you see on the fruits and vegetables when they get rot. They look slimy and fluffy and may be red, black or green in color. Mycotoxin is present in some mold then this causes health problems and allergies. If you are too sensitive then they may even cause headaches, asthma and coughing. Exposure to this toxin can also cause breathing difficulties and irritation in eyes.
Some molds are beneficial for us and they are used in making beer, sausages, bread, cheese and many other food items. Some antibiotics like Pencillin from mold named Penicillium chrysogenum and Lovastatin are extracted from molds. Pencillin is a common antibiotic while Lovastatin is used for bringing the cholesterol level down.
You can see Mildew growing on moist places like walls, bathtubs and other similar places. The odor that you feel in the basements and moist places is because of Mildew. It grows in dump places which lack proper ventilation. Downy mildew and powdery mildew are two types of mildew. You can see powdery mildew on flowering plants while downy mildew can be seen on agricultural plants.
Mildew also grows on paper and fabrics. For protecting fabrics from mildew you can use silica gel.
Mold and Mildew are spread by spores and these spores are always present in the air. Some of the differences between them are:
- Molds grow on food while mildew grows on walls, fabrics, paper etc.
- Mold is black, red and green in color while mildew is white or grey.
Both these cause allergies and continuous and prolonged exposure to molds can also cause neurological disorders. This is why it is essential to keep our homes dry and clean to keep them free from molds and mildew.