Mildew is a living organism that grows with warmth, humidity, and nutrients. It is the common name for various molds, simple plants that are classed as fungi. It tends to have a fuzzy appearance and may be white, rust, green, or black, the latter being more common. As mildew grows it "eats" the fiber, causing permanent fiber damage and weakening. Bleaching to remove mildew further weakens fabrics. Author: Jan Stone, Extension Specialist
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