Mould is a prevalent problem that plagues many UK homes, particularly during the winter months due to the colder temperatures.
A recent survey by Ronseal disclosed that over half (51%) of UK homes are affected, with nearly a quarter (24%) of Brits grappling with mould issues several times a year. There’s also more than 50,000 posts on the mould TikTok hashtag – showing just how many people suffer with the issue.
In an effort to assist Brits in protecting their homes from this relentless issue, Ronseal’s DIY expert, Jimmy Englezos, has offered advice on how to permanently eliminate mould and identified the most common areas where it thrives.
He stated: “Mould is something that many homes suffer with due to its persistent nature and it can be difficult to get rid of. It tends to proliferate in more humid environments which is why it can worsen in the winter months. It takes just 24-48 hours for mould spores to develop and if the humidity rises above 60 to 65%, you can see signs within 24 hours.”
Take a look at Jimmy’s top tips to put an end to mould for good below.
1. Make sure the area is well-ventilated – Mould thrives in warm, dark and damp conditions so cracking a window open for an hour a day will help lower the humidity.
This tip is especially crucial when carrying out tasks such as drying laundry indoors as this will increase the moisture levels. Also, remember to switch on the exhaust fan after cooking and showering.
2. Wipe away any moisture on surfaces – The most effective way to halt mould growth is by controlling the moisture levels in your home.
Therefore, wiping away moisture on windows and walls will help keep these areas dry. Regularly airing out wardrobes and cupboards and using moisture absorbers in basements and wardrobes can also be beneficial.
3. Get a dehumidifier – This is a great option if your home has limited windows as it extracts moisture from the air and releases dry air back into the room.
This process lowers humidity levels and prevents condensation from forming. Ensure you clean it regularly to prevent blockages and maintain airflow.
4. Warm up the room – While heating can be expensive, turning on the heat for a short period can help prevent mould by keeping rooms from cooling down.
The ideal temperature for living rooms is between 20c and 23c, while for bedrooms and kitchens it’s 16c. It’s advised to avoid letting the temperature drop below 14c.
5. Check for and fix leaks – Look for leaks as dripping taps and pipes can promote mould growth, particularly in enclosed spaces like cabinets.
Regular checks of the roof, attic, gutters, window seals and plumbing systems can further prevent leaks.
Removing mould on a budget
For those on a budget, Jimmy has also shared the below tips.
1. Purchase a mould spray – Specialised mould treatments are available from various retailers and can be sprayed directly onto the surface to combat mould growth. Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the surface and eliminate the mould.
Once the mould is removed, use a clean dry cloth to wipe off any remaining moisture.
2. Use washing up liquid – The same technique can be applied using washing up liquid and water instead of the spray This method is also more cost-effective as washing up liquid can be purchased for as little as 62p. Be cautious when removing mould from wallpaper, as excessive water can cause it to bubble.
3. Get some white wine vinegar – This ingredient is highly effective in removing mould and can be bought for as little as 35p. To remove mould, create a solution of one part vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
Spray on the affected areas and leave for an hour. Afterwards, wipe away the vinegar residue with a damp cloth which should also remove the mould.
4. Buy some bleach – Similar to white vinegar, a solution can be made using household bleach which can be obtained from 60p. Mix one part bleach and four parts water before using a cloth to wipe the solution across the wall, scrubbing gently to eradicate the mould.
