MOULD could be creeping into your home due to one simple mistake that is letting condensation thrive.
Experts have now revealed the best way to stop this condensation and mould growing around the house for the autumn.
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The issue is known to become particularly bad over the autumn and winter months, turning walls and windows black.
And founder of Fence Guru, Dale Smith, has suggested: “Most people don’t realise that their well-intentioned autumn habits could actually create the perfect environment for mould to thrive.”
This is due to the combination of increased moisture and reduced airflow that comes with the colder months of the year.
Mr Smith said: “We need to be extra careful about how we manage our homes during this transition period.”
Common habits like leaving umbrellas and boots to dry in the hallway could actually be making the situation worse.
The moisture that they may be carrying is actually causing the home to become a “breeding ground” for mould.
Especially when these items are left in confined spaces or hallways to dry, the moisture they generate can bring areas of high humidity.
This is the perfect environment for mould.
Mr Smith added: “I’ve seen mould problems start in entrance areas where families consistently leave we gear.
“It spreads from there into the rest of the home through air circulation.”
But there is a simple fix for this.
It could be useful to create specific drying zones in the house where there is ample ventilation.
Bassingstoke and Dean Borough Council also shared a few of their tips and tricks to help households.
- Always wipe surfaces where moisture settles
- Keep lids on saucepans when cooking
- Keep kitchen and bathroom doors closed when using these rooms, as this will help prevent the spread of moisture
- Use extractor fans in your kitchen and bathroom, if you have them, and/or open windows whilst using these spaces
- Dry clothes outside (if possible), do not dry clothes directly on radiators
- Dry laundry in the bathroom with the door closed and the window open or the extractor fan on
There are other causes of mould and forms of moisture, such as rising damp, gutter leakages and dripping pipes.
Other useful habits to help keep out condensation have also been outlined by The Sun.
One huge hack is to open windows on opposite sides of the house.
This can be done just once or twice daily for five minutes, and at a certain time in the day, rather than letting in the cold air throughout the whole day.
And when treating mould, it is important to try tackle it quickly.
Product Development Scientist at Astonish, Olivia Young said: “Try to come into as little contact with it as you can.
“So, grab your gloves, tie up your hair and get to work to remove any signs of mould as soon as you notice them.”
How to get rid of mould on a budget
JIMMY Englezos, a DIY expert from Ronseal, has shared his top tips on how to get rid of mould inside the home on a budget.
He said: “As a general rule, when removing mould, open the windows of the room to ventilate the area and keep the door to the rest of the home closed to prevent mould spores from spreading.”
1. Mould spray
“Specialised mould treatments can be picked up from various retailers and used to directly spray the surface to treat mould growth.
“Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the surface and remove the mould. Once the mould has been removed, wipe off the residual with a clean dry cloth to remove the rest of the moisture.
“Dispose of the cloth and vacuum the room to remove all spores.”
2. Washing up liquid
“The same technique can be done using washing up liquid and water instead of the spray – however, it may not be as effective for larger areas.
“The method is also cheaper as washing up liquid can be bought for as little as 62p. Be careful when removing mould from wallpaper, as too much water can cause it to bubble.”
3. White vinegar
“This staple kitchen ingredient can be very effective in cleaning and removing mould and can be picked up for as little as 35p. To remove mould, mix a solution of one part vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
“Spray on the affected areas and leave for an hour. After this, wipe away the vinegar residue using a damp cloth which should remove the mould. This solution is ideal for kitchens as it lacks chemicals.”
4. Bleach
“Like white vinegar, a solution can be created using household bleach which can be picked up from 60p.
“Mix one part bleach and four parts water before using a cloth to wipe the solution across the wall, scrubbing gently to remove the mould.
“Wipe away the bleach residue and dry the area, making sure a separate cloth is used. Be aware bleach can change the colour of walls, resulting in patches and light drip marks.”
