Not Sure What’s Growing on Your Walls? Here’s How to Tell
If you’ve noticed dark spots in your bathroom, musty smells near the windows, or strange growths on your walls, you’re not alone. Thanks to Texas' hot and humid weather, mold and mildew can show up in even the cleanest homes.
But what exactly is the difference between mold and mildew—and why does it matter?
In this article, we’ll break down the key differences, the health risks, how to identify each one, and what to do next if you find either in your home.
But what exactly is the difference between mold and mildew—and why does it matter?
In this article, we’ll break down the key differences, the health risks, how to identify each one, and what to do next if you find either in your home.
Mold vs. Mildew: Quick Comparison
A strong musty smell is often the first sign of mold—even before you see it. Mold gives off gases as it grows, and those gases smell like wet socks or a damp basement. If the smell is strongest in places like the bathroom, kitchen, attic, or near vents, it’s time to get it checked out.
Mold
- Color: Black, green, blue, brown
- Texture: Fuzzy or slimy
- Depth: Grows deep into surfaces
- Smell: Strong, musty odor
- Common Areas: Behind walls, under floors, insulation, HVAC
- Health Risk: High – respiratory issues, asthma, headaches
Mildew
- Color: White, gray, yellow
- Texture: Powdery or flat
- Depth: Stays on surface
- Smell: Mild musty smell
- Common Areas: Shower tiles, window sills, damp paper, fabrics
- Health Risk: Mild – allergies or irritation
What Is Mildew?
Mildew is a surface-level fungus. You’ll often see it on shower walls, windowsills, or damp fabrics. It usually appears as flat, white or gray patches, and it can be wiped away fairly easily with the right cleaning products.
Some common Mildew signs include:
Some common Mildew signs include:
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Powdery white or light gray spots
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Musty smell in a confined area
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Appears in warm, damp places with poor airflow
Mildew is usually less serious than mold—but if it’s left untreated, it can spread and attract mold growth.
What Is Mold?
Mold is more aggressive. It penetrates deeper into surfaces and spreads quickly in wet or humid conditions—especially inside walls, under carpet, or in your attic, crawlspace, or HVAC system. Mold often looks black, green, or brown and can feel fuzzy, slimy, or sticky.
Common signs of Mold include:
Common signs of Mold include:
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Dark, irregular patches on walls, ceilings, or baseboards
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Persistent musty odor throughout your home
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Allergy-like symptoms that worsen indoors
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History of leaks or water damage in your home
Mold can be dangerous to your health and should always be handled by a professional—especially in places like Houston, Katy, or The Woodlands, where humidity is high most of the year.
Why It Matters: Health Risks in Texas Homes
Texas homeowners are especially at risk because mold thrives in our environment. If ignored, mold can trigger:
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Asthma attacks
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Chronic coughing and sneezing
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Skin rashes
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Fatigue and headaches
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Serious complications for people with immune issues
While mildew may irritate allergies, mold exposure can cause long-term health problems if not properly removed.
How to Tell Which One You’re Dealing With
Here’s a simple test:
- Try wiping it away: If it comes off easily with vinegar or mildew cleaner, it’s likely mildew.
- Stains or returns quickly: If it stains the surface, spreads fast, or comes back after cleaning—it’s probably mold.
Still not sure? A professional inspection can give you peace of mind and protect your family’s health.
What To Do If You Find Mold or Mildew
For Mildew:
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Improve ventilation
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Use a mildew spray or mix vinegar and water
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Wipe clean and monitor the area
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Spread of mold to other rooms
For Mold:
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Don’t disturb it (scrubbing can release spores)
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Don’t use bleach on porous surfaces
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Call a certified mold remediation company
Professional Mold Services in Houston & Beyond
At Team Home Solutions, we help families in Houston, Katy, Conroe, Spring, Tomball, The Woodlands, and surrounding Texas cities with:
- Mold inspections
- Full remediation & removal
- Odor and air quality improvement
- Prevention and moisture control
Final Thoughts
Mildew might just be a surface nuisance, but mold is a serious threat to your health and home. If you're unsure what’s growing in your house, don’t wait for it to spread.
Let Team Home Solutions help you get answers—and take care of the problem before it gets worse.
Let Team Home Solutions help you get answers—and take care of the problem before it gets worse.
