As winter approaches and energy costs rise, a new health threat is emerging in UK homes: mould. Mould can harm not only your property but also your health, so it’s essential to address it as soon as you notice it.
While it may be tempting to turn up the heating, this can be expensive. Fortunately, there are other ways to keep condensation and mould at bay while keeping your bills low.
Bathroom and kitchen expert Nancy Emery from Drench has shared five money-saving, mould-banishing tips to keep you dry and healthy this winter. The first tip is simple and can remove up to 75% of moisture from your home in under five minutes.
She said: “Up to 75% of moisture, which will lead to mould, can be eliminated by wiping down wet surfaces immediately. Any surface that collects water, for instance around the kitchen sink after washing up, or on the bathroom tiles and floors after getting out of the shower, should be wiped down after use.
“Accumulated water on tiles, no matter the room, can get into the grout and silicone, which is where a build-up of mould is likely to develop.”
Her other top tip is to use your extractor fans. Some people might be put off by the noise of a fan, but they work to prevent mould growth by removing damp air from areas like kitchens and bathrooms, reports the Mirror.
These fans should always be used when cooking or showering and should be left on for at least half an hour afterwards to ensure they are effective.
Boosting the efficiency of extractor fans is simple, just keep them clean as dust build-up can hamper their performance significantly.
As the cooler months take hold, drying clothes indoors becomes a common practice, but experts warn against draping them over radiators. Nancy explains that this seemingly cost-effective method can actually cause more harm than good.
She elaborated: “Although it may seem like an easy way to cut costs, drying clothes on the radiator instead of the tumble dryer or drying rack can lead to higher amounts of condensation accumulating from the lack of airflow.”
This excess moisture can linger and encourage mould growth, leaving your home with a musty odour. Instead, Nancy suggests using a heated clothes airer or towel rack for efficient indoor drying without the risk of mildew.
For those battling dampness in their homes, Nancy recommends a dehumidifier as a smart investment, particularly in high-traffic areas or where you dry laundry.
She advised: “In rooms with heavy use, like your bathroom, living room, kitchen and bedroom, it may be a good idea to use dehumidifiers. There are a range of types available, from more expensive heavy-duty appliances to everyday affordable options that can be found in supermarkets and home retailers.”