My walls and ceilings were drenched in condensation and mold, but a B&M purchase helps
As the winter months arrive and temperatures drop, it’s not uncommon for households to encounter an unwanted guest: mold.
This pesky invader thrives in damp, cold conditions and can quickly make itself at home in the nooks and crannies of your living space.
But don’t worry, with a few simple tips and tricks you can keep mold at bay and keep your home cozy and healthy all season long.
And many of them have been revealed in a thread on the online forum Reddit.
This comes after a homeowner went to the scene to seek advice as their walls and ceilings were covered in mould.
One person suggested: “Get a dehumidifier.
“You can get non-electric ones for a few tens at B&M, they absorb the moisture.
“I also find those window vacuum things really good for getting moisture out of the windows.”
A non-electric dehumidifier currently costs £12 at the budget store.
UniBond Aero 360 Moisture absorber Device produces no noise or spills and requires no electricity.
The aerodynamic device, in combination with 360 air circulation fillings, ensures optimal moisture absorption.
It helps prevent condensation, damp areas, allergens, mold and mildew, absorb moisture and neutralize odors.
A second said: “Do you have a smart meter?
“You can use it to see how much it actually costs to run that dehumidifier (what is the rate per hour when it’s on versus off).
“Dehumidifiers are not as expensive to run as you might think. And using it is cheaper than having to replace paint and furniture all the time.
“This is what we do in our damp areas: Clean the black mold with mold cleaner or white vinegar, repaint with mold-resistant paint.
“Every morning, open the window for five minutes and wipe the window with a dry cloth.
“Then remove the cloth from the room.
“Close the window after five minutes and run the dehumidifier for as long as possible.
“We follow this routine every day and none of our fungus has returned.”
Another also suggested: “Astonish mold cleaner is really good.
“It used to be £1 in poundland.
“It really goes away, but mold always comes back.
“It smells like chlorine.”
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.