MOULD

The mould issue is almost universal in London property – we live in an often damp climate and struggle to remain dry, and this damp can lead to mould. It’s a particular issue in older properties with new double glazing as there is less of a through-flow of air. The advantage is added warmth in winter, but the disadvantage that you need to be rigorous in damp management.

For this reason, we recommend opening windows on both sides of the house for a sufficient time in the morning, making sure doors in between are held open. You need to factor this into your routine – if it’s cold you can open windows, put a coat on, do 30 mins chores, close up and go.

It really is down to how long you let the air come through. If you object to the sufficient degree of ventilation – eg., if it’s particularly cold – you can do a daily wipe where the condensation is collecting, before the mould gets established.

Sometimes mould collects behind furniture, and it can also help to move items away from the wall, but the emphasis is “Whole House Ventilation.”

It’s recommended to keep specialist anti-mould cleaners in your home for regular cleaning, but time and again experience shows that increasing ventilation is the answer.

Key concepts – “whole-house” and “through-flow of air”-

How to Keep Your Flat Free from Mould?

Condensation is the main reason for mould appearance in a home, especially in cold weather. Mould and mildew thrive in a moist environment. To keep your home mould free this winter, check our tips below.

What is Condensation?

Cooking, washing, showering, bathing and drying clothes inside your property will release moisture and vapour into the air. If these vapours get in contact with cold surfaces such as windows, mirrors or walls, the result is condensation – small droplets of water. The damp left from condensation can create a thriving environment for mould on walls, wood, fabric, furniture, and carpets.

How to Control the Humidity

Mould is fungus and needs moisture to develop. You need to reduce condensation and get rid of dampness to prevent mould growth.

Produce Less Moisture

  • Hang your laundry outside, or dry it in the bathroom, keeping the window open.
  • Use lids on pans when cooking. Always turn the extractor hood while cooking.
  • Make sure your bathroom fan is turned on after taking a shower or a bath.
  • Wipe up wet surfaces after every use – kitchen worktops, bathroom tiles, sinks etc.

Ventilate Regularly

  • Keep bathroom and kitchen doors closed when you are in the room, even if there are extractor fans.
  • Ventilate kitchens and bathrooms after every use.
  • Ventilate wardrobes and cupboards.
  • Place furniture at least 2 inches from walls to allow airflow.

Heating and Insulation

  • Proper heating will keep your home warmer and lower the humidity levels inside.
  • Keeping constant temperature with low background heating in cold weather will also help reduce condensation.
  • Getting an air dehumidifier is a good option for lowering the moisture at home.

How to Prevent Mould Growth at Home?

  • Clean and disinfect humid areas at home – bathroom and kitchen. There is wide variety of anti mould products that can help you clean and prevent mould.
  • Clean behind large pieces of furniture at least twice a year

Reducing the moisture and regular cleaning are essential for preventing mould appearance in your home.

How do you clean mould?

Don’t disturb the mould with a brush or dry cloth as you’ll disperse the spores. Experts advise using a mould spray that contains a biocide such as DDAC – about 1 or 2%. As with bleach, don’t inhale it or get it on your skin. Keep the window open while using it, take sensible precautions and avoid long-term exposure.

How can I stop mould in my wardrobe?

When wardrobes are full, air struggles to circulate, and when fitted against a cold wall, damp can cause your clothes and shoes to go mouldy. There are insulating products that you can stick on the back wall yourself (usually foam based) just to take the cold edge off. There are also disposable dehumidifying sachets that collect water and then you bin them. Small dehumidifiers are also a big help.

In short:

  • Wipe down affected areas with specialist DDAC mould spray. This can be purchased from most supermarkets or hardware shops.
  • Avoid using products like bleach or washing up liquid as they do not kill the mould effectively.
  • Wipe down surfaces where moisture settles.
  • Ventilate your home by opening windows and vents each day.
  • It is important not to disturb the mould by vacuuming because this can increase risk of breathing problems