Mould is a type of fungus that grows in moist conditions, and mildew is the everyday name for the thin, powdery or fluffy patches, often whitish, that fungus forms on damp surfaces such as fabric, paper, leather and walls. In a home or a storage unit the two words describe the same problem: fungal growth fed by damp, which stains, smells musty and can weaken what it grows on.
At Wigwam
Mould needs moisture, so the best protection is simple: pack everything clean and completely dry before it goes into your unit. Our units are clean, dry and secure, and these habits keep mould away:
- pack on a dry day if you can, and let anything from a damp garage or a wet day dry out at home first;
- use breathable covers, such as blankets or dust sheets, rather than plastic bags for anything staying months;
- lift things off the floor and leave a small gap at the walls so air can move;
- defrost and dry fridges and freezers fully before they come in;
- look in now and then, or share access with someone who can check for you.
Our contents protection covers sudden water damage, such as burst pipes or water leakage. It doesn’t pay for damp that builds up slowly from the air, or for the damage that kind of damp does over time, such as mould, which is why packing dry matters so much.
If you spot mould
Finding mould on something you care about is upsetting, and we’ll help you work through it. Take photos before you move anything, move unaffected things away from the damp area, and call us straight away on 0800 2545585, especially if you think water has come in from outside your unit. Keep damaged items until your insurer says you can let them go.
Conservation advice notes that mould discolours or breaks down leather, textiles and paper, so for a precious piece it’s worth asking a conservator before you try to clean it.
Related terms
Related questions
- Who is responsible if mould appears in my storage unit?
- Does contents protection cover damp and mould?
- How do I stop clothes going musty in a storage unit?
Further reading