CONDENSATION is the biggest driver of mould growth in our homes.
The fungus is usually found on animal or plant matter, building materials like wood and plasterboard, and furnishings like curtains, carpets and boxes.
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While it has a major role in the ecosystem of the earth it can be dangerous in the home and costly to remove.
The key thing to do is try and ensure that you don’t invite mould into your home by minimising condensation – especially around our windows.
The NHS says the problem with mould is that it produces allergens, irritants and, sometimes, toxic substances.
When these are inhaled or they get into the skin, it causes nasty symptoms.
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At first, these toxins may not cause any harm at low levels. But if they are consistently in the air, it starts to cause side effects.
People who live in homes with mould are more likely to have respiratory problems, infections, allergies and asthma.
But mould can also damage your home.
We spoke to Petya Holevich, domestic cleaning expert and supervisor at Fantastic Services, who explained exactly when to ventilate your home.
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She said: “Always open your windows during the warmest part of the day.
“This is the ideal time to open your windows to ventilate your home and get rid of condensation because the air outside is usually at its dryest.
“This is typically in the late morning or early afternoon when temperatures rise and the humidity outdoors is relatively low.
“Aiming to ventilate your home during this time will allow fresh air to circulate through the house, which will assist in moisture removal without the need for additional heating.
Of course, if your goal is to reduce condensation and keep your bills on the lower side, avoid opening your windows during the coldest parts of the day or night because doing this can increase heating costs.
Petya continued: “An extra tip I’d recommend is to consider the wind direction when opening your windows.
“It’s best to always open them on the side of the house facing the wind as this can facilitate better airflow.
“You don’t have to keep your windows open for long either. Between five and 15 minutes is sufficient.”
Don’t forget to open the windows when drying clothes inside, and at all costs avoid drying wet clothes on the radiator.
And remember, as cooking can create a lot of condensation, remember to use pan lids to try and reduce moisture getting into the air.
Keeping the inside of your home above 15°C will help to stop condensation from forming and keep you comfortable while your windows are open for short periods too.
How can I remove mould if it’s already there?
Bleach is usually all you need if you neither own nor want to buy specialised cleaning sprays and paints.
If using bleach, mix four parts of water with one part of bleach.
You’ll also need a stiff brush, a bucket of water with cloth, and another cloth for drying.
Apply your solution to the affected areas, including a few inches around the visible mould to kill any mould not yet visible.
Scrub it firmly with a strong brush.
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Wait as long as possible or until the mould disappears from sight and rinse the treated areas thoroughly.
Pat dry the area and allow it to completely dry before moving any furniture or placing items in front of it.
