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Mold and Mildew Removers:
What is it?
Have you seen black spots on your shower curtain? Have you seen black, brown or pinkish slimy stuff growing between bathroom tiles, the corner area where your tub meets the walls or under your bathtub mat? These spots and slimes are molds and mildews. Molds and mildews are kinds of funguses. What's a fungus? A fungus is a plant that has no leaves, flowers, roots or chlorophyll. (Chlorophyll is a chemical that allows plants to make their own food. It makes plants appear green.) A mushroom is an example of a fungus.
Mildew is also the name of the discoloration caused by fungus. Maybe you have heard of "mildew stains." Molds and mildew like to grow in damp, dark places with little air circulation, like in bathrooms and basements.
Household products that contain mold and mildew removers usually come as a liquid in a spray container. If you are old enough to do cleaning chores around your house, you've probably used a cleaner with a mold and mildew remover. If so, you need to be sure to always "Read the Label First" to know how to properly use these products and for safety information. Also, be sure your parents know what household products you are using. They can make sure you use them safely.
What's in it?
The pesticide chemicals found in mold and mildew removers are chlorine and alkyl ammonium chlorides. These pesticides are known as fungicides.
What health and safety things do you need to think about with mold and mildew removers?
The chemicals in mold and mildew removers can be very caustic. That is, these cleaners can be corrosive to objects and harmful to humans. It's a good idea to wear latex dishwashing gloves to help protect your skin when using these products. If you get some on your skin wash it off immediately.
Cleaners with mold and mildew removers may also cause breathing problems and if swallowed, they will burn your throat. Because mold and mildew removers can be harmful, your exposure to them is important to know.
What do you do if you or someone you're with has an accident with household products?
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