If there is mold growing on the walls at home, it not only appears unsightly but also can affect health, especially black mold. To address this issue, experts recommend using a common household item for mold cleaning that is convenient and effective.
According to a report from the UK’s Daily Express, dampness, lack of ventilation, and leaks are all reasons that contribute to mold growth. If mold is left unattended for a long time, it can become a health concern.
Petya Holevich, a home cleaning expert and supervisor at the Australian cleaning company Fantastic Services, suggests that common solutions for mold removal include vinegar, soap, and bleach. However, there are also other natural methods available, with one of the most surprising methods being the use of tea tree oil.
Holevich explains, “Tea tree oil is a natural disinfectant. Mix one teaspoon of tea tree oil with a cup of water, pour it into a spray bottle, then spray it on the mold. Let it dry for an hour, then wipe it clean. Remember to wear gloves to avoid skin irritation.”
It is important to use a soft cloth to wipe the affected areas, avoiding the use of a stiff brush to prevent removing paint from the walls.
Tea tree oil carries an uplifting aroma and possesses antibacterial properties, meaning it not only can remove mold but also eliminate the musty odor that often comes with mold.
The ability of tea tree oil to remove mold is due to its compounds, such as α-terpineol and terpinen-4-ol, which can kill mold spores by breaking down their cell walls.
Holevich also recommends the use of alternatives like baking soda or lemon for mold removal.
Baking soda serves as a natural alternative to bleach with its high alkaline pH value that inhibits mold growth, safe for both household members and pets.
Lemons, readily available at most supermarkets, have high acidity that can disinfect surfaces while easily breaking down mold.
As the saying goes, “prevention is better than cure.” By preventing mold growth at home, the aforementioned methods for mold removal might not even be necessary.
In this regard, experts from the UK cleaning company Rainbow Rubbish Removals offer 7 tips for preventing mold growth, which could be particularly useful in less ventilated and more humid environments, especially during the autumn and winter seasons.
Open Windows:
Mold spores require moisture to grow and reproduce. If the outdoors are cooler and drier, opening windows can help release harmful spores and reduce the accumulation of mold toxins, especially in areas where mold may spread rapidly, like around windows.
If the winter weather is too cold to open all windows frequently, it is advisable to open windows on both sides of the house for at least 10 minutes each morning to allow moisture to escape.
If there are vents in the windows, keep them open throughout the year to promote airflow.
Raise Heating Temperature:
If your home has heating, raising the temperature helps heat surfaces like walls to avoid water condensation, preventing mold growth. However, this may increase energy costs.
To prevent mold growth, indoor temperatures should be raised to at least 16 degrees Celsius, but not below 14 degrees Celsius. Cold rooms absorb moisture, allowing mold spores to survive and multiply.
Pay Attention to Plants:
Overwatering potted plants or poor drainage can lead to water accumulation in the soil, creating a damp environment for mold growth. Fallen leaves or dead roots can decompose, increasing humidity indoors.
Using pots with drainage holes and placing trays underneath to catch excess water can prevent plant decay and mold growth.
Air Dry Clothes Outdoors:
Some people may use electric heaters indoors during winter to dry clothes, which can lead to condensation and hinder the effective operation of heating systems. The moisture from clothes can also increase indoor humidity, creating a damp environment necessary for mold growth.
If possible, hang wet clothes outdoors or near open windows to ensure ventilation and avoid mold infestation.
Close Doors:
Keeping doors closed in rooms prone to humidity, like bathrooms or kitchens, can help control moisture, restrict airflow, prevent the spread of humidity and mold spores to other indoor areas, reduce water condensation, and ensure proper ventilation systems operation. All these contribute to preventing mold growth.
Thus, whether during bathing, boiling water, or using the stove, closing doors can reduce the risk of mold proliferation, especially on the ceiling where hot air reaches.
Declutter:
Removing unnecessary items promotes air circulation, keeps surfaces dry, reduces lingering moisture, and maximizes conditions necessary for mold growth.
Regularly Clean Carpets:
Rooms without hardwood floors are more susceptible to mold, as dust mites, dirt, hair, and fungi can form a “nest” on carpets.
Whether your entire house or specific rooms have carpets, regular carpet cleaning and maintaining good ventilation are crucial to lower humidity levels.
By implementing these preventative measures, you can minimize the chances of mold growth in your home, especially in the less ventilated and more humid seasons like autumn and winter.