Mould can pop up in our homes and while it’s pretty common, it’s not something you want around. It can be bad for your health, so here’s a helpful guide to help you understand mould, what causes it, and how to get rid of it:
- What is mould?
- What causes mould?
- How mould can affect your health
- Types of mould to watch out for
- How to deal with mould
- Treating mould in specific areas
- Tips to prevent mould
What is mould?
Mould is a type of fungus that helps break down dead material. It loves damp and humid spots, which makes our homes a perfect place to grow. You'll often find it on things like wallpaper, wood, and carpets. If mould is left alone, it will keep growing and can be harmful, so it’s important to clean it up.
What causes mould?
You might be wondering why mould appears on your walls, ceilings, or in the bathroom. Let’s look at some common causes:
- Humidity Mould thrives in humid areas, so it’s often found in kitchens and bathrooms where steam from cooking and showers creates moisture.
- Condensation This happens when warm air meets cold surfaces. When the moisture can’t escape, mould can form, especially on tiles or around windows.
- Rising damp If you see mould low on your walls, it might be rising damp. This could mean there’s a leak in your pipes behind the walls or under your sink.
- Poor ventilation Without good airflow, moisture builds up from everyday activities like cooking and showering, which can lead to mould.
How mould can affect your health
Having mould in your home can cause various health issues. It can lead to respiratory infections, worsen asthma, and even affect your mood. Here are some groups that might be more at risk:
- Older adults
- Babies and young children
- People with skin issues like eczema
- Those with breathing problems like asthma
- Individuals with weakened immune systems
- Knowing how mould can impact health helps you take steps to protect yourself and others.
Types of mould to look out for
Mould comes in different shapes and colours. Here are some common types you might see in your home:
Alternaria
This mould looks velvet-like and is usually dark green or brown. It’s often found in damp places like showers. It spreads quickly, so get rid of it as soon as you see it.
Health risks: Can cause asthma-like symptoms.
Aureobasidium
Starting as pink or brown, it turns dark brown as it ages. It grows on walls, often hiding behind wallpaper.
Health risks: Can cause skin and eye infections.
Cladosporium
This greenish-brown mould has a suede-like feel. It can grow in both warm and cold areas, often found in fabrics and carpets.
Health risks: Can cause allergic reactions and worsen asthma.
Penicillium
Usually blue or green, it’s often found on spoiled food and various materials.
Health risks: Can lead to asthma and sinus issues.
Black mould (Stachybotrys)
This dark mould likes damp areas. It can be mistaken for dirt but can cause serious health problems.
Health risks: Can lead to breathing issues and fatigue, especially in children.
How to deal with mould
You want your home to be safe and healthy, so it’s crucial to tackle mould quickly. There are plenty of mould sprays available, or you can make a natural cleaner using vinegar and bicarbonate of soda. Remember to wear gloves, goggles, and a mask to protect yourself while cleaning.
Treating mould in specific areas
Here’s how to handle mould in common spots:
- Bathroom Use a cleaning solution on smooth surfaces. Spray it on the mouldy area, scrub with a sponge, and use a toothbrush for tight spots.
- Kitchen For mould on cabinets, mix equal parts water and detergent in a spray bottle. Use a brush to scrub it away.
- Walls and ceilings You might need a paint scraper to get to the mould. Once you’ve removed the paint or wallpaper, use mould removal spray and a sponge to clean it up.
How to prevent mould
To keep mould away, you need to tackle the root cause. Here are some simple tips:
- Let in light Open your curtains during the day to let in natural light and air.
- Control humidity Wipe up condensation and use dehumidifiers to keep moisture down. Close doors when showering or cooking to keep humidity in check.
- Stay clean Regular cleaning helps prevent mould. Wash fabrics and wooden surfaces often.
- Ventilate Good airflow is key. Open windows and use fans to keep air moving.
- Get rid of mouldy items If something can’t be cleaned, like carpets or drywall, it’s best to throw them away.
- Seal your home Check for leaks around windows and doors to keep water out. And check your guttering in case of damage or blockages.
- Insulate well Make sure your home is insulated to keep humidity low, especially in winter.
- Call the pros If you have serious mould problems from leaks or damaged walls, it’s time to get a professional.
Taking these steps can help you manage mould in your home. We hope this guide helps you understand how to identify and tackle mould effectively!
