How to tackle a mould problem
Mould is a common household problem that can have a serious impact on your health. Some moulds may not seem to have an impact on your health but once mould is introduced to humidity it can become a major health hazard.
Building biologist Nicole Bijlsma of Building Biology said, “In Australia, one in three homes are affected by water damage and damp which lays down the perfect conditions for mould to grow.”
“If left unchecked, a mould clean-up operation can cost tens of thousands so the most important thing you can do is to stay vigilant about keeping living areas dry and clean so that the mould doesn’t have an opportunity to take hold.”
Mould requires humidity levels that are over 70 per cent to start to act out so if your house is located waterside, in flood zones or you have roofing, plumbing or ventilation issues then you are more susceptible to having mould grow. Lifestyle habits can also cause mould to grow.
Mould Rescue mould remediator Penny Tralau said, “Often we see problems in homes where the residents insist on having long, hot showers without using adequate ventilation, and also those who habitually dry clothes on racks indoors.”
To avoid mould growing, it is important to make sure every room is properly ventilated every day and that clothes and shoes are dry before storing them away.
“The last thing you want is damp running shoes sitting at the bottom of your dark, warm cupboard,” she said.
It is also important to dry clothes and towels outside rather than leaving them to hang on the back of a door, ensure that all steam is gone from the bathroom while showering or bathing and it is also better to vacuum rather than sweep.
“Dust is like fast food to mould and sweeping just kicks up dust and makes it airborne,” Tralau said.
A dehumidifier is also a great way to make sure that your home never passes the 70 per cent mark. You can set your dehumidifier to automatically turn on at 65 per cent so that mould spores will never begin to germinate.
Remove the mould
It is important to always be alert if you can smell a musty aroma or if you are experiencing unusual allergies, as it may be caused by mould. A good way to start investigating is by pulling out furniture and seeing their backs and undersides for any signs of mould.
If you do come across mould, isolate the item that the mould is on so that it does not spread. Clean the item with soap water and then place them in direct sunlight to dry.
Vinegar and bleach solutions should be used on non-porous surfaces but if mould has ruined the makeup of an item then it will need to be thrown out.
What are your tips for dealing with mould? Let us know in the comments below.