MOULD in the house can be a nuisance to get rid of, as well as a serious threat to your health.
But a common household item you probably throw away without even thinking about it could actually be the key to preventing the pesky problem.
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Mould is a result of excess moisture in the air, which creates a damp environment for fungus to grow.
A common cause of mould is condensation, particularly around window sills.
Colder, wetter weather can also spark the spread of mould, as well as hanging damp laundry out in unventilated areas, having a faulty heating system, or a leaky pipe.
Sometimes, the cause may be a trickier to pinpoint, which is when it’s a sensible idea to call in a mould expert to identify the root of the problem.
If left untreated, mould can pose a risk to vulnerable Brits with existing health problems like eczema or asthma.
But it turns out there’s a simple way to reduce dampness around the house.
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Hold on to your silica packets, ladies and gents.
That’s right, the little sachet that you flippantly throw away when opening a new pair of trainers or box of lateral flow tests could actually protect your walls and window sills.
Silica gel packets are designed to prevent moisture from damaging a product, making them ideal for keeping dampness at bay around your home.
The tip comes from consumer group Which?, which posted on Instagram some of the innovative ways to reuse the tiny packets.
The drying agent can be popped on a window sill or in your steamy bathroom to capture some of the condensation.
Some people even put the little drying gems next to their razors or in their toolboxes to prevent rust.
While others have placed them inside their gym bags or damp shoes to restore some freshness.
But be sure to keep these sachets away from children or pets, as they can be toxic if ingested.
The Sun has reached out to a damp expert for comment on the effectiveness of silica packets, and we will update this article when we hear back.
For those living in mouldy rental properties, you could be owed hundreds in compensation from your landlord.
If you’re struggling with mould badly this winter and think you may need more help than silica packets can offer, check out this property expert’s advice.
If you think mould might already be affecting your health, there are five signs to look out for
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