Households across the UK are being urged to adopt a simple two-second habit this winter to combat a common and feared problem: mould. The warning comes as a recent study by bathroom retailer Drench uncovered that one in 10 UK homes reported issues with damp and mould to their local council last year.
The Condensation Crisis in UK Homes
According to cleaning expert Nancy Emery from Drench, mould becomes a significantly worse problem during the colder months. "As the cold air meets the moisture created by daily activities, such as cooking and showering, it creates condensation on walls and windows," she explained. This damp environment acts as a perfect breeding ground for mould, which can then spread rapidly throughout a property when temperatures drop.
Five Simple Habits to Keep Your Home Mould-Free
Nancy Emery has provided five straightforward autumn habits to prevent mould build-up and ensure homes stay clean and healthy.
1. Harness Natural Light and Air: Ensure your curtains are open during the day. This allows natural light to fill your home, helping to keep surfaces dry. Combine this with opening all doors and windows for 10 to 15 minutes each morning to allow fresh air to cross-ventilate throughout the entire house.
2. Wipe Away Moisture Immediately: After your morning shower, make it a routine to wipe down the glass shower screen and any mirrors. This removes lingering moisture before it has a chance to settle and contribute to dampness.
3. Target High-Risk Areas: Bathrooms, basements, and kitchens are particularly prone to damp due to humid activities or their cold, dark conditions. Cleaning these areas regularly is crucial to keeping them dry.
4. Deep Clean Crevices: Pay special attention to cracks and crevices where mould can easily take hold. Nancy suggests wiping them down with a white vinegar spray followed by a dry cloth.
5. Maintain a Warm Temperature: By keeping your home at 18°C or above, you vastly reduce the risk of mould. "Your walls and surfaces will be too warm for damp to take hold," Nancy advises.
Prevention is Key
Emery concludes that mould is largely preventable, provided homes are structurally sound and, most importantly, adequately ventilated. Adopting these simple daily practices can make a significant difference in protecting your property and health from the damaging effects of mould this winter.
