Falling temperatures create the perfect breeding ground for mould. And with lots of Brits potentially reducing their heating usage in line with rising energy bills, this year could see record numbers of people suffer from mould in their homes.
But an interiors expert has shared her tips on how to avoid and remove mould from items in your home, praising in particular two ‘miracle’ household cupboard essentials which get the job done.
Monika Puccio, buying expert at Sofa Club, shares her tips on how to remove and prevent mould from growing on your interiors.
What is causing mould on my sofa?
“Mould thrives in environments with excess moisture, which is why it often becomes more noticeable during the colder months,” says Monika.
“As warm, moist air meets cooler surfaces like walls or mirrors, condensation forms, providing the perfect conditions for mould to grow. Due to their fabric being able to absorb moisture easily, mould can also infiltrate soft furnishings like sofas, especially if they’re exposed to damp conditions over extended periods or placed against surfaces already affected by mould.”
How do I remove mould?
“If I had to recommend two miracle products for cleaning, it would be white vinegar and baking soda — chances are you already have them in your cupboards at home,” said Monika.
“For mould removal on a sofa, start by mixing one teaspoon of baking soda with two cups of water in a spray bottle. Apply the mixture to the affected area and gently scrub with a soft-bristle brush to lift the mould. After rinsing with warm water, follow up by spraying the area with white vinegar, which acts as a natural disinfectant to kill the mould. I would recommend doing this during the day so that you allow the sofa enough time to dry out.”
How to prevent mould from re-occurring
“Once you’ve tackled mould, the goal is to prevent it from returning. Always aim to leave a gap between your sofa and the wall to allow for good air circulation around the room,” said Monika.
“If placing your sofa against a wall is unavoidable, then opt for an interior wall rather than an exterior one, as exterior walls tend to be colder and more prone to condensation.
“Investing in a dehumidifier is another effective solution. It helps to reduce moisture levels in the room, making it less likely for mould to reappear. Beyond mould prevention, dehumidifiers also work to improve air quality by reducing dust and allergens, which can benefit your health, especially those who suffer from allergies.”
“As mould thrives in damp environments, ensuring any spillages are immediately cleaned up and the area has allowed to dry thoroughly will reduce the chances of regrowth.”
