AS the winter months roll in and the temperature drops, it’s not uncommon for households to encounter an unwelcome guest: mould.
This pesky intruder thrives in damp, cold conditions and can quickly make itself at home in the corners and crevices of your living space.
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But don’t worry, with a few simple tips and tricks, you can keep mould at bay and ensure your home stays cosy and healthy throughout the season.
And many have been revealed in a thread on the online forum Reddit.
This comes after one homeowner took to the site to ask for advice as their walls and ceilings were covered in mould.
One person suggested: “Get a dehumidifier.
“You can get non-electric ones from B&M for a few quid, they will soak up the moisture.
“Also, I find those window vac things really good for taking moisture from the windows.”
A non-electric dehumidifier currently costs £12 from the budget retailer.
UniBond Aero 360 Moisture Absorber Device produces no noise or spills and requires no electricity.
The aerodynamic device combines with 360 air circulation refills to give you optimum moisture absorbtion.
It helps to combat condensation, damp rooms, allergens, mould and mildew, as well as absorbing moisture and neutralising odours.
A second said: “Have you got a smart metre?
“You can use it to see how much it actually costs to run that dehumidifier (what’s the rate per hour when it’s on vs off).
“Dehumidifiers are not as expensive to run as you might think. And running them is cheaper than having to replace paint and furnishings all the time.
“We do this in our damp rooms: Clean the black mould with mould cleaner or white vinegar, repaint with mould resistant paint.
“Every morning, open the window for five minutes and wipe down the window with a dry cloth.
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“Take the cloth out of the room afterwards.
“Close the window after five minutes then turn on the dehumidifier for as long as you can.
“We follow this routine every single day and none of our mould has come back.”
Another also suggested: “Astonish mould cleaner is really good.
“It used to be £1 in poundland.
Read more on the Scottish Sun
“It really does get rid, but mould always comes back.
“Smells like chlorine.”
Common Bathroom Habits That Increase Mould
Plumbworld, a leading expert in bathroom and kitchen products, has shared the daily habits that increase the chance of mould growing in homes.
Leaving wet towels and bathmats on floor
Wet towels and bathmats on the floors after a shower or bath can increase humidity levels which provides a perfect breeding ground for mould spores.
To prevent this, hang towels and bathmats in an area where they can dry quickly and to wash them regularly.
Not turning on the fan
An exhaust fan is critical in reducing moisture levels in the bathroom.
When taking a hot shower or bath, steam increases the room’s humidity level, creating an ideal setting for mould to flourish on walls, ceilings, and other surfaces.
An exhaust fan helps by moving the moist air outside, significantly reducing the risk of mould growth.
Experts suggest running the fan during the shower and for at least 20-30 minutes afterwards to lower humidity levels.
Ignoring small leaks
Even minor leaks from the sink, toilet, or shower can contribute to increased moisture levels in a bathroom, fostering an environment where mould can thrive.
Over time, these leaks can cause significant water damage, promoting mould growth in less visible areas such as inside walls or under flooring.
Fix leaks promptly to prevent mould and potential structural damage.
Keeping shower curtains or doors closed
Keeping the shower area closed after use traps moisture inside, delaying the drying process and creating a humid environment conducive to mould growth.
Mould can easily develop on shower curtains, doors, and in tile grout if they remain wet for too long.
To avoid this, leave the shower door or curtain open after use to improve air circulation and allow the area to dry more quickly.
Storing too many products
Shower caddies and corners filled with bottles and accessories may seem harmless, but they can obstruct airflow and trap moisture and creates hidden, moist niches where mould can grow unnoticed.
Keep shampoo and shower gel bottles to a minimum, and regularly clean and dry the areas underneath them to prevent mould growing.
