Mildew can just grow in damp places in your home. They can even stain furniture and damage items such as books. It can trigger allergic reactions like asthma if kept unchecked. Plus the musky odor just clings inside a room with mildewed items. Here are some tips on preventing mildew.

• Dry out wet and soiled clothing before putting them inside your hamper or laundry bag.
• Don’t starch clothes that would be kept in storage for a long time. Likewise don’t store starched clothes for a long time.
• Air out closets once in a while. Open the doors to let the . Quick blasts with a hair dryer can dry out trapped moisture too.
• Mildew can also grow on leather. To treat these items, use a solution of half-part water and half-part alcohol. Wiped on, then wipe dry. Then use petroleum jelly to restore them.
• Put in little desiccant bags which you can save from empty medicine bottles (those little bags labeled “Desiccant. Do not eat” in bookcases and closets. These would prevent moisture in damp places.
• If you happen to have damp books you may try using cornstarch or talcum powder to dust in between pages to help absorb moisture.
• For furniture with mildew, brush them thoroughly. If it’s possible do this outside where it’ll be exposed in direct sunlight and fresh air. There are commercially available cleaners specifically for mildew. Those you can use according to instructions.