I’m a home expert: try these five £1 hacks to banish mold and condensation
A HOME expert has revealed five simple tricks to banish mold and condensation from your home.
Now that summer is finally behind us, you may have noticed that condensation has formed on your windows due to the cold weather.
1
Condensation occurs when warm, moist air comes into contact with a cold surface, causing the water vapor in the air to condense into liquid water.
This can then lead to mold growth on walls and ceilings, which can cause a wide range of health problems, including asthma and skin rashes.
It can also cause damage to your home and furniture, so your best bet is to find the source of the problem and fix it.
With this in mind, Allan Reid, housing expert from Artificial windows and doors has shared six simple things you can do to banish mold from your home
Vinegar
White vinegar contains acetic acid, which penetrates deep into surfaces, killing mold spores and keeping them from coming back.
It’s also super cheap and can be picked up from B&M for just 79p.
To use it, simply mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and apply to the affected area.
“Let it sit for at least an hour, then scrub it and wipe it clean,” Allan said.
Sodium carbonate
According to Allan, “Baking soda is an excellent natural cleaner and deodorant.”
Simply make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the mold.
Once it has dried, scrub the area and wipe away the baking soda.
You can pick up baking soda from Asda for just 65p.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea Tree Oil has antifungal properties, which can help remove mold.
Mix 10 drops of tea tree oil with a cup of water in a spray bottle and then spray it on the moldy areas.
“Don’t rinse it; let it air dry,” Allan advised.
Common bathroom habits that increase mold
Plumbworld, a leading expert in bathroom and kitchen products, has shared the daily habits that increase the likelihood of mold growth in homes.
Leaving wet towels and bath mats on the floor
Wet towels and bath mats on the floor after a shower or bath can increase humidity, creating a perfect breeding ground for mold spores.
To prevent this, hang towels and bath mats where they can dry quickly and wash them regularly.
Do not turn on the fan
An exhaust fan is crucial for reducing moisture levels in the bathroom.
When you take a hot shower or bath, steam increases the humidity in the room, creating an ideal environment for mold to grow on walls, ceilings and other surfaces.
An exhaust fan helps by moving the moist air outside, significantly reducing the chance of mold growth.
Experts recommend running the fan while showering and for at least 20-30 minutes afterwards to reduce humidity.
Ignore small leaks
Even small leaks from the sink, toilet or shower can contribute to increased moisture levels in a bathroom, creating an environment where mold can thrive.
Over time, these leaks can cause significant water damage, encouraging mold growth in less visible areas such as interior walls or under floors.
Repair leaks immediately to prevent mold and possible structural damage.
Keep shower curtains or doors closed
Keeping the shower area closed after use traps moisture inside, slowing the drying process and creating a moist environment that promotes mold growth.
Mold can easily develop on shower curtains, doors and in tile joints if they remain wet for too long.
To prevent this, leave the shower door or curtain open after use to improve air circulation and help the area dry more quickly.
Storing too many products
Shower holders and corners filled with bottles and accessories may seem harmless, but they can restrict airflow, trap moisture and create hidden, damp niches where mold can grow unnoticed.
Keep shampoo and shower gel bottles to a minimum and clean and dry the areas underneath them regularly to prevent mold growth.
Lemon juice
The acid in lemon juice helps break down and remove mold.
Apply lemon juice to the mold and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before scrubbing and wiping it clean.
Regular cleaning
“Often, simple soap and water can remove mold from non-porous surfaces,” says Allan.
“Use a scrub brush and soapy water to thoroughly clean the affected areas.
“Then rinse and dry.”
