Why are antique and vintage materials particularly vulnerable to mold?

Antique and vintage materials are particularly vulnerable to mold because they often contain organic materials that can harbor mold growth. These items are typically made from natural substances like wood, fabric, or leather, which provide the necessary nutrients for mold to thrive. Organic materials are decomposed by mold, and when conditions are favorable—such as moisture, warmth, and lack of ventilation—mold can proliferate rapidly.

In contrast, inorganic components, such as metals or plastics, do not provide the nutritional resources mold needs to grow. The historical significance of these items (which is relevant to one of the other choices) does not directly contribute to mold vulnerability; rather, it may make preservation efforts more critical. Similarly, while sunlight can inhibit mold growth by drying out surfaces, antique items are often stored or displayed in environments with varying light exposure, making the organic composition a more significant factor in their mold susceptibility.