Outdoor Mildew Removal

If you are one of the many people facing the problem of ugly mildew on patio furniture, vinyl siding or any other area outside your house, outdoor mildew removal may be easier than you think.

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A living organism, mildew is a natural fungus. This type of mold grows in places that are humid, damp and warm feeding on organic matter. There are also types of mildew that grow on inorganic matter, such as vinyl or aluminum siding. These kinds of mildew feed on organic matter that is airborne and derive their moisture supply from rain and dew.

Mildew appears as a thin, splotchy coating that varies in color. Although black is the most common color of mildew, other colors are found in shades of the following:

• White
• Whitish grays
• Grays
• Reds
• Pinks
• Greens
• Blues
• Browns

A mildew growth not only looks ugly, it can also be dangerous. When mildew grows on outside walkways or decks, the areas can become very slippery often resulting in injuries from falls. Another danger caused by the build-up of mildew on wood surfaces is the possibility of wood rot occurring.

Mildew growth also causes discoloration and staining to the cushions of outside patio furniture, awnings and other items made of canvas or fabric. If the mildew is not removed, it could cause the fabric to decay causing holes to occur.

Some commercial mildew removal products for use outdoors are made to be used on a specific type of material, such as wood or canvas. Others can be used on multiple types of mildew-covered surfaces.

• 30 Seconds Outdoor Cleaner is a product that removes mildew from most exterior surfaces. The biodegradable product is safe to use around plants and lawn areas as long as the package directions are followed.
• The Zinsser line of JoMaX mold and mildew removal products includes specific cleaners for indoor and outdoor use. The product line for outdoor use includes:
  • Multi-Purpose Exterior Cleaner & Brightener
  • House Cleaner and Mildew Killer
  • House Wash and Mildew Stain Remover
  • Mold & Mildew Shield
  • Roof Cleaner & Mildew Stain Remover
  • Mold & Mildew Stain Remover
  • Add 2 - Mildewcide Additive
• Available form boating stores Boatlife Mildew Remover is chlorine and acid free making it safe for use on fabrics.

With the growing concern for the environment, there are a number of mildew removal products that are considered green or eco-friendly.

• Natural Environmental Systems offers a green line of earth friendly mildew and mold removal products.
• Safe to use around children and pets, Eco Moldzyme can be used anywhere there is mold or mildew growth.
• WD-40 X-14 Professional Instant Mildew Remover

There are a number of different homemade solutions that remove mildew from outdoor surfaces. These solutions use a combination of one or two common household products such as:

• Borox
• Bleach
• White Vinegar
• Detergent
• Liquid dish soap
• Ammonia
• Baking soda
• Lemon juice
• Salt
• Water

The following LoveToKnow articles include the products and proportions needed to make homemade cleaning solutions to remove mildew from many outdoor surfaces.

• Remove Mildew from Patio Furniture
• Cleaning Outdoor Furniture Mildew

Often homemade cleaning solutions for mildew removal include either ammonia or bleach. Both of these products are effective in removing mildew. Never mix bleach and ammonia together. If bleach and ammonia are used together, it could result in either of the following:

• The release of dangerous chlorine gas
• The creation of nitrogen trichloride, a volatile toxic mixture that can explode

From commercial mildew removal products to time tested homemade solutions, there are many different ways to remove mildew growth from your outdoor surfaces. Whichever method of outdoor mildew removal you choose, always make sure to use safety precautions including wearing rubber gloves, eye protection and a mask if needed.

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