Mold and mildew are common problems in homes worldwide, and Bali is no exception. These fungi not only cause health issues but can also damage your property. Understanding what causes them, how to prevent their growth, and how to remove them is essential for every homeowner in Bali.

Understanding Mold and Mildew

Mold and mildew are both types of fungi that thrive on organic materials. They feed on cellulose and damage materials like wood, paper, cardboard, cotton, rayon, and leather. They require moisture, warmth, and shade to grow.

Differences Between Mold and Mildew

• Mildew: Mildew typically appears in two forms: powdery mildew, which starts white and turns yellow, brown, or black, and downy mildew, which begins yellow and darkens to brown. Mildew is often flat and surface-level.
• Mold: Mold can be more varied in color, appearing in red, blue, yellow, green, brown, grey, black, or white. Mold tends to grow thicker, appearing “lumpy” or fluffy. There are many types of molds; some are harmful while others, like those used in cheese and penicillin, are beneficial.

The Dangers of Mold and Mildew

While neither is ideal, mold is a greater health threat than mildew.

• Mildew: Can cause headaches, difficulty breathing, sore throats, and coughing. It also damages plants and crops.
• Mold: Some molds produce mycotoxins. In addition to the issues caused by mildew, mold can cause sneezing, watery and itchy eyes, depression, forgetfulness, rashes, allergic reactions, asthma, migraines, severe tiredness, joint inflammation, and pneumonia. Mold can also cause structural damage to homes, especially wood rot, and damage to plasterboard, wallpaper, curtains, tablecloths, bed linen, carpets, and clothes.
  • The danger comes from inhaling airborne reproductive spores.

How to Get Rid of Mold and Mildew

If you already have mold or mildew, you’ll need to take the following steps:

1. Clean the area: Thoroughly clean off the visible mold or mildew.
2. Apply a cleaning solution: Mix half a cup of bleach with 2 liters of water. Use this solution to scrub the affected area.
3. Repeat: Let the area dry and then repeat the scrubbing process two more times.
   • Safety first: Always wear rubber gloves, a face mask, and ventilate the area when using bleach. Avoid getting bleach on your skin or in your eyes.

Preventing Mold and Mildew Growth

The key to preventing mold and mildew is controlling moisture and humidity.

1. Keep Your House Dry:
   • Ensure wet areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, and laundries are well-ventilated and separated from living spaces.
   • Fix roof leaks, damp walls, and rising damp.
   • Ventilate rooms after mopping floors.
2. Use Air Conditioners or Dehumidifiers:
   • Air conditioners help to reduce humidity but may not lower levels below 50%. They can also be expensive to run.
   • Dehumidifiers are very effective at reducing humidity.
   • Avoid evaporative air coolers, as they increase humidity levels.
3. Ensure Proper Ventilation:
   • Incorporate effective ventilation and air circulation into your house design.
   • Open windows and doors regularly to create drafts.
   • Leave wardrobe doors open periodically and space out clothes to promote air circulation.
   • Install ceiling and exhaust fans.

Additional Tips

• Avoid painting moldy surfaces: The paint will not adhere properly and may peel. Always remove mold and dry the surfaces before painting. Use a good quality paint with an anti-fungal additive.

By following these steps, you can keep your Bali home free from mold and mildew, ensuring a healthy and comfortable environment.