Finding a fuzzy, stained spot on a favorite rug is upsetting for any homeowner. The first question that comes to mind is: Is it dangerous? How do I get rid of it? The first thing you need to do to answer these questions is to know the main difference between mold and mildew. Even though people often use these words to mean the same thing, they are two different kinds of fungi that look different and can have different effects on health. Knowing the difference between mildew and mold is important for figuring out how to get rid of it and when to call in a pro.

What is the Main Difference Between Mold vs Mildew?

The main differences between mold and mildew are how deep they are, how they seem, and how dangerous they can be. Both are fungi that do well in warm, humid, and wet places; therefore, rugs that aren't dried properly are a great place for them to grow. Also, carpet beetles and bed bugs can harm your carpet and could be risky for your health as well.

Mildew

Mildew is a fungus that grows on surfaces. It is usually easier to get rid of and is less likely to hurt the fibers of your rug's structure. It can still irritate the lungs, though, so it should be dealt with.

Mold

Mold is a fungus that spreads more easily. It goes deeper into things, like the threads of the rug and even its backing and cushioning. Some kinds of mold can do a lot of harm to your rug and make you sick, especially if you have asthma or allergies.

Difference in Appearance for Mold vs Mildew

The easiest way to start the mold vs. mildew test is to look at them. You can tell them apart by how they look.

How to Find Mildew on Rugs

Think of mildew as a flat, powdery, or fluffy growth on a surface.

Appearance: At first, it's white, gray, or light yellow. Over time, it can turn brown or black.
Texture: The texture is either fluffy or powdered.
Growth Pattern: It stays on the surface and grows flatly.
Main difference: The main difference between mildew and mold is that mildew is on the surface and has a lighter, more even color at the beginning.

How to Find Mold on Rugs

When you think about what mold looks like, picture a growth that is elevated, fuzzy, or slimy and might be any color.

Appearance: It looks like spots that are not regular shapes and can be black, green, blue, red, or yellow. The well-known "black mold" (Stachybotrys) is very dark and slippery.
Texture: Fuzzy or slimy texture that can look elevated.
Growth Pattern: It travels deep into materials and starts to grow in an uneven way.
Main Difference: The main difference between mildew and mold is that mold is usually multicolored, elevated, and smells musty and earthy, which means it has grown underneath the surface.

How to Get Rid of Mold vs Mildew on Your Rugs

The type of development determines how to get rid of it, which is the main distinction between mold and mildew.

How to Get Rid of Mildew on Rugs

If you catch it early, you can get rid of surface-level mildew yourself.

Take the rug outside: Do this to keep spores from spreading inside.
Vacuum: Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to get rid of any loose spores on the surface.
Scrub: Use a mixture of one part white vinegar and one part water, or a weak bleach solution, on the area that needs it. Use a gentle brush to scrub softly.
Rinse and Dry Well: Use a wet cloth to rinse the area. This is the most important phase. To keep it from happening again, the rug needs to be totally dry in 8 to 12 hours.

How to Get Rid of Mold on Rugs

Because mold is so invasive, it's harder to deal with.

Small Areas: For very small areas (less than 10 square feet), you can try a similar method to getting rid of mildew, but be extra careful. Most types of mold can be killed with vinegar. Make sure to scrub well to get to the roots.
Large or Widespread Areas: If the mold covers a lot of ground, smells musty, or has been there for a long time, it is best to call in professionals to get rid of it. If you try to clean it yourself, you could spread hazardous spores all around your home.

Prevention Strategy for Mold vs Mildew

The easiest method to deal with mold and mildew is to not let them happen in the first place.

Stopping mold and mildew from starting in the first place is the greatest way to win the war against them.

Control Humidity: Keep the humidity in your home below 50% by using dehumidifiers.
Dry Rugs Completely: After cleaning or spilling something, make sure the rugs are completely dry within 24 hours. Use fans to move more air about.
Take care of spills straight away: Blot up any moisture from spills and accidents right away.
Clean and Inspect Regularly: Check rugs often in places that get wet, such as bathrooms and basements. Routine checks and balances can help more to keep an eye on your carpets for cleaning and inspection purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the major health effect of mold vs mildew?

Mildew usually makes people cough, get headaches, or have trouble breathing. Mold, especially toxic kinds, can cause more serious reactions like allergies, asthma attacks, and chronic sinusitis.

Q2: Is it possible to keep a rug that has mold on it, or does it have to be thrown away?

Depending on how bad the damage is, many rugs can be rescued. Small, recent growth can typically be corrected. But if the mold has gotten deep into the backing and padding and the rug smells bad all the time, it might be best to replace it.

Q3: Is mold usually present when there is a musty smell?

A musty, earthy smell that won't go away is a strong sign that mold is growing, while mildew has a lighter, powdery smell. This smell makes it seem like the growth is not just on the surface but has gotten into the material.

Q4: I detect fuzzy whitish growth. Is this mildew or mold?

Mildew is usually white, powdery, and flat. Mold is usually black or green and fuzzy or slimy from the start.

Q5: Can having a professional clean your rugs keep mold and mildew from growing?

Yes, for sure. Professional cleaning gets rid of the filth and organic matter that fungi eat. More significantly, professional-grade extraction equipment removes a lot more moisture than DIY techniques. This is the best way to keep it from getting damaged.

Get professional help to take care of your investment.

If you know the difference between mold and mildew, you can spot problems early and fix them. Cleaning up mildew is easy, but mold growth usually means you need to call a professional to safeguard your health and save your rug.

If you fear there might be mold on your carpets, don't put your health or your rugs at risk. The people at A&BCarpet know how to restore your rugs safely and effectively. Contact us today, and we'll help you keep your home looking and feeling great.