Black mould and mildew on walls not only looks disgusting, but it can be harmful for your health. But luckily, it’s possible to use cleaning products you have in the home to remove and banish mould from coming back again.
Mould is a fungus that likes to grow in warm, damp conditions. It can be caused by plumbing leaks, floods or when there is a lack of ventilation. This is why lofts and bathrooms often fall culprit to mould. The word mildew just relates to a certain type of mould fungus, that often has a powdery appearance.
Tools Needed to Clean Mould and Mildew
It's important to protect yourself when tackling mould growth. If the mouldy area is larger than one metre squared and is caused by contaminated sewage water, it’s recommended to call in a mould remediation expert. If you choose to clean the mould yourself, assemble these tools:
- Two cloths
- Bucket with water and a mild detergent. Or you can use a dedicated mould cleaner
- Protect yourself with rubber gloves, goggles and a face mask
Simple Steps to Clean Mould and Mildew Off Walls
Now you have all the right tools, it’s time to tackle the mould. Follow these steps:
Dip one clean cloth into your bucket of water and wipe the mould away from the wall. Try not to use a brushing motion as this can release mould spores into the air
Once all the mould has been removed, use a clean, dry cloth, to mop up any remaining moisture
When you’re happy the area is dry, throw away both cloths and vacuum all around the room to pick up any remaining mould spores
How to Prevent Mould and Mildew Build Up in Your Home
After removing mould, you can work to prevent it from recurring. Firstly, you should take steps to stop condensation, such as regularly ventilating your home, putting lids on saucepans and turning on an extractor fan while showering.
If the weather is too cold to open windows, crank the thermostat up for a period of time each day. Aim to dry laundry outside where possible and invest in a dehumidifier, which will help reduce humidity in your home.
Finally, after reducing condensation and ridding your home of mould, you can add extra protection to your walls by applying anti-mould paint.
1. Make sure surfaces are mould free, clean and dry
2. Use anti-mould paint on any walls that are prone to mould
3. Let the first coat dry and apply a second according to the manufacturer’s instructions