What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
mildew
Example
The shower curtain had mildew growing on it. [mildew: noun]
Example
She used vinegar to get rid of the mildew on the bathroom tiles. [mildew: noun]
mold
Example
The bread had mold on it, so I threw it away. [mold: noun]
Example
He hired professionals to remove the mold from the basement walls. [mold: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mold is more commonly used than mildew in everyday language. Mold is a broader term that covers various types of fungi that grow on organic matter, while mildew specifically refers to a type of fungus that grows on damp surfaces.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between mildew and mold?
Both mildew and mold are neutral terms that can be used in formal and informal contexts, depending on the situation and audience.
