Living in Southwest Florida comes with beautiful weather, beach breezes, and lots of sunshine. But it also means one thing homeowners are all too familiar with: humidity. And with that comes the perfect conditions for mold and mildew—especially on your lanai screens.
If you live in Naples, Marco Island, Bonita Springs, Estero, or Fort Myers, keeping your pool cage or lanai screen clean is more than just about appearance. It’s about protecting your investment and avoiding unnecessary repairs. Here are some simple but effective tips to keep mold and mildew from taking over your screened-in areas.
🦠 Why Mold and Mildew Form on Lanai Screens
Mold and mildew thrive in:
- Warm, moist environments
- Shaded areas with little airflow
- Dirty surfaces that collect organic matter
That’s basically a Florida lanai in the summer.
Screens made from standard fiberglass mesh or even privacy screen materials like Florida Glass can trap moisture or attract spores if not properly maintained.
💦 Tip #1: Rinse Screens Regularly with a Garden Hose
At least once a month—more if you’re near the water or under a lot of trees—use a garden hose to spray down your lanai screens. This removes:
- Dirt
- Pollen
- Dead bugs
- Organic debris (which mold feeds on)
Avoid pressure washers unless you’re using a very low setting; too much pressure can stretch or tear the screen material.
🧴 Tip #2: Use a Mild Cleaning Solution
Mix a gentle solution with:
- 1 part white vinegar
- 1 part water
Spray it on the screen and scrub lightly with a soft brush. Vinegar is a natural mold killer and deodorizer, and it’s safe for most screen materials, including polyester super screen and fiberglass mesh.
For more stubborn spots, you can use a drop or two of dish soap. Just be sure to rinse thoroughly with clean water.
🌬 Tip #3: Improve Airflow Around the Lanai
Mold loves stagnant air. If your lanai area is heavily shaded or doesn’t get much breeze, consider:
- Trimming nearby trees and shrubs
- Installing a ceiling fan or outdoor-rated wall fan
- Opening nearby doors or windows occasionally to promote air circulation
Improved airflow can dry out moisture that would otherwise sit on the screen.
🌧 Tip #4: Check for Pool Cage Leaks or Drainage Issues
If water puddles near your lanai after rain, it creates a breeding ground for mildew. Check:
- That your patio drains properly
- That rainwater isn’t seeping into corners of the screen structure
- For broken gutters or downspouts that might dump water too close
If water isn’t flowing away, mold won’t stay away either.
🔁 Tip #5: Rescreen Old or Damaged Panels
Old screens tend to hold moisture longer and may already be compromised. If you’re constantly fighting mildew, it may be time to:
- Upgrade to Super Screen, which is more resistant to mold buildup
- Consider Florida Glass for privacy and splash protection
- Switch to a solar screen to reduce heat and UV—both of which contribute to moisture
At Best Rescreen Company, we specialize in upgrading old or worn-out screen materials across Naples, Marco Island, Bonita Springs, Estero, and Fort Myers.
🧼 Tip #6: Clean the Frames and Tracks Too
It’s not just the mesh that needs attention. Mold can grow on:
- Aluminum or vinyl frames
- Screen door tracks
- Screws and hardware
Use the same vinegar-and-water solution to wipe down these areas every month. Don’t forget corners and shaded spots where moisture collects.
🚫 What Not to Use
Avoid using:
- Bleach (can damage screen materials and discolor aluminum)
- Abrasive pads (can scratch or tear mesh)
- Strong pressure washers (may stretch or rip the screen)
Gentle and consistent cleaning wins the mold battle every time.
Serving All of Southwest Florida
If you’re located in:
- Naples
- Marco Island
- Bonita Springs
- Estero
- Fort Myers
- Cape Coral
—we’re here to help keep your screened enclosures clean, safe, and long-lasting.
📍 Contact Us
Best Rescreen Company
5660 Strand Ct Unit A244
Naples, FL 34110
📞 (239) 344-7774
🌐 www.bestrescreenco.com
✅ Need New Screens? We’ve Got You Covered.
If your current screens are beyond saving, or you simply want a fresh upgrade that’s more mold-resistant, get in touch with Best Rescreen Company today. We’ve helped homeowners across Southwest Florida for over 30 years, and we’d be happy to give you a free quote.
Don’t let mold take over your outdoor space—call us or book online today!
