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Mold and/or mildew is caused by an organism called Fungi.  They are common in nature and serve a central role as breakdown agents for organic matter.  In their vegetative state (this is when they grow and can be seen or cause foul odors) they can be killed normally with a disinfectant.  But the discoloration and damage they may have caused may not be easily repaired.

In their spore state (this is when they are dormant and wait for the right condition to exist to start growing) they are very difficult to kill and disinfectants are not normally effective.

So where are some of the places that fungi organisms find the ideal condition to grow?  The most common place exist as damp and/or moist surfaces with very little light and almost dead air flow - places like bathrooms, basements, laundry room, kitchens and closets.

The easiest solutions would be to:

• keep areas dry

• keep free of water leaks from pipes & ground water seepage

• in high humidity areas, use air conditioning and dehumidifiers

• use exhaust fans in bathrooms, shower rooms and kitchens

• keep the relative humidity below 65% to help keep mold and mildew from growing

Keeping all areas clean and free of dust, soil and other organic debris helps control sources of fungi and other harmful organisms.  This is where our industry can play the biggest part in controlling these organisms.

In problem areas, weekly cleaning of all surfaces with Buckeye Sanicare Lemon Quat will keep them free of sources of fungi and free of food sources needed for the organism to grow.

ISSUED:  September, 2001 by Buckeye International Inc.