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Mould is a fungus that grows in damp, poorly ventilated areas and can be detrimental to your health.
Common in bathrooms, kitchens and laundries, mould can damage surfaces and harm your health if untreated. It can also be harder to get rid of once it has taken hold.
Managing mould can be challenging, but with good ventilation, regular cleaning and applying some of the tips below, it is possible to keep it under control even in a rental property.
Maximise ventilation
Opening windows and doors regularly in your home is essential. Consider using door wedges to prop open internal doors and encourage air circulation throughout the home. Having multiple windows open enables cross breezes. Also regularly keep wardrobes and cupboards open that might be susceptible to mould.
Bathroom and kitchen extraction fans as well as wall vents are important additions to any home. Renters should discuss with their landlord about installing an exhaust fan or a 3-in-1 bathroom heater, exhaust and light. These units are compact, energy-efficient and easily retrofitted to most homes.
You can also enhance ventilation by placing oscillating fans strategically around problem areas such as near windows or damp spots to improve airflow and prevent moisture build-up.
Create a moisture-free environment
Dehumidifiers can be invaluable in homes with persistent dampness. Choose a compact yet powerful unit. For added convenience, opt for a dehumidifier with a continuous drain option so you don’t need to frequently empty the water tank.
For smaller spaces such as wardrobes or under sinks, use moisture absorbers like DampRid Refillable Moisture Absorbers. They are inexpensive, easy to use, and available in multiple sizes.
Use smart furnishing choices
Sometimes mould forms in hidden areas, like behind furniture. To combat this, place furniture slightly away from walls to promote airflow. For storage, use open shelving units or plastic containers instead of sealed fabric or cardboard boxes which can trap moisture.
You can also use raised furniture legs, such as furniture risers, to elevate sofas or beds slightly, preventing mould build-up on carpets underneath.
Use moisture-absorbing paint and treatments
Consider repainting problem areas with mould-resistant paint, such as Dulux Wash & Wear +PLUS Anti-Mould. These paints contain additives that resist mould and mildew, making them perfect for damp areas like bathrooms or laundries.
You can also choose to add a mildew inhibitor like Protite Mould Defender into your paint for protection. The guide How to paint a mouldy ceiling shows you how.
Alternatively, apply a mould-prevention treatment like Concrobium Mould Control Spray. This water-based solution forms an invisible barrier that stops mould growth. It’s ideal for walls, ceilings and other hard surfaces.
Spray away
There is a range of mould sprays designed for protecting tiles, grouting, ceramics, plaster, vinyl and even painted surfaces. These sprays help kill mould and the spores that cause regrowth.
Some products can be used outside on roofs, gutters, tiles, concrete pavers, blocks and brickwork.
For more helpful advice on cleaning mould around the home, check out the guide How to remove mould stains from walls.
Remove moisture from windows
If your windows suffer from condensation, you can use an affordable window vacuum like the Kärcher Window Vac to remove moisture quickly. These devices are compact and easy to store. You can also install removable weather strips to reduce cold draughts and prevent condensation.
Grow plants that reduce humidity
While plants can sometimes contribute to indoor humidity, certain varieties actually help absorb moisture. Consider adding plants like peace lilies, spider plants or Boston ferns to your home. These not only look great but can also assist in reducing dampness inside a room.
Regularly maintain your gutters
If your gutters are full of leaves or damaged, water can leak into your ceiling and walls. This is a common cause of mould in the home. Make sure you regularly clean your gutters and check they are working correctly. Installing gutter guard can help prevent clogged gutters.
Proactively engage your landlord
Mould problems sometimes stem from structural issues like roof leaks or poor insulation that tenants cannot remedy themselves. Document any recurring issues with photos and dates so you can bring them to your property manager or landlord’s attention.
