As winter draws closer and temperatures continue to decline, excess moisture and mould will start to become more of a problem for many UK households.
Heating habits, drying clothes indoors and cooking or showering without sufficient ventilation are just some of the factors that contribute to mould growth.
It’s a common issue in British homes during the colder months and can lead to all kinds of issues, including respiratory problems.
That’s why it’s important you take steps to prevent mould from growing in your home in the first place.
The experts at online home store Wayfair UK have shared their top tips for keeping your home warm, dry and mould free this winter.
The first tip is to keep an eye out for condensation build-up. “Heating our homes during colder months can create conditions that encourage mould growth,” the expert said.
“Warmer air holds more moisture, and when it meets cold surfaces, condensation—tiny water droplets—forms.
“Be mindful of condensation on windows and sills, and wipe it away as soon as you notice it.”
The expert also recommends considering investing in a dehumidifier, highlighting the benefits of being able to control how much moisture is in the air.
They also specified what humidity level you should aim to keep your home at, stating: “To prevent mould growth, it’s important to keep humidity levels at around 45 percent in your home.
“Using dehumidifiers can help manage moisture—these portable and easily replaceable devices are an effective solution for preventing mould during the colder months.”
In addition to using a dehumidifier, another way to keep mould out of your home is to keep your living spaces ventilated.
As unappealing as it might be to open a window when it’s cold outside, ventilating your home throughout winter actually decreases the formation of mould spores within your space.
“Cracking open a window, especially in areas of high humidity such as bathrooms and kitchens, allows the moisture to escape, minimising moisture and mould in your home,” the expert explained, adding that doing this twice a day is advised.
Other approaches include using mould-preventing paint, which has chemicals called biocides embedded within the formula, something that has been proven to stop mould from forming on walls.
But if you don’t fancy redecorating, another simple tip is to simply move any furniture away from exterior walls.
Wayfair’s home expert said: “Moisture can get trapped behind your furniture, and without proper ventilation and airflow, the moisture can create mould and mildew on your furniture.
“Simply moving your furniture an inch away from the wall can create enough airflow to minimise the formation of mould within your home,” they clarified.
