The exact temperature to keep your house indoors to stop mould from growing this winter
TRYING to keep the house warm while it’s cold outside is hard enough.
But add in the challenge of attempting to keep condensation at bay, preventing the growth of mould in the process, and it seems near on impossible.
However, according to one expert, there’s an exact temperature you need to maintain indoors this winter if you want to keep mould at bay.
“Proper ventilation is the cornerstone of mould prevention,” Paul Kershaw, the founder of building material supplier Tradefix Direct, explained.
“Even during winter, it’s crucial to regularly air out your home.
“Ensure that fans and ventilation systems are functioning optimally, and seal windows and doors to prevent moisture intrusion.
“Inspect pipes for leaks and the roof for potential water damage.
“Additionally, maintaining a consistent indoor temperature above 15 degrees Celsius can help deter mould growth.”
There are also some signs to watch out for if you’re worried about mould growing – as it can be “easily overlooked” when it appears as “small, discoloured spots on walls”.
“As it progresses, these spots enlarge and merge, creating larger, more noticeable patches,” Paul continued.
“Mould can appear in various colours, including green, black, or white, and may initially resemble stains.
“Larger patches of mould have a fuzzy texture.”
And when it comes to getting rid of the mould, don’t use water, as Paul warned that doing so can “exacerbate the problem, causing it to spread and further stain the wall”.
Instead, try vinegar as a natural remedy.
“Simply wipe the affected area with vinegar and rinse thoroughly with hot water,” he advised.
“Avoid excessive scrubbing to prevent damage to the walls.”
Common Bathroom Habits That Increase Mould
Plumbworld, a leading expert in bathroom and kitchen products, has shared the daily habits that increase the chance of mould growing in homes.
Leaving wet towels and bathmats on floor
Wet towels and bathmats on the floors after a shower or bath can increase humidity levels which provides a perfect breeding ground for mould spores.
To prevent this, hang towels and bathmats in an area where they can dry quickly and to wash them regularly.
Not turning on the fan
An exhaust fan is critical in reducing moisture levels in the bathroom.
When taking a hot shower or bath, steam increases the room’s humidity level, creating an ideal setting for mould to flourish on walls, ceilings, and other surfaces.
An exhaust fan helps by moving the moist air outside, significantly reducing the risk of mould growth.
Experts suggest running the fan during the shower and for at least 20-30 minutes afterwards to lower humidity levels.
Ignoring small leaks
Even minor leaks from the sink, toilet, or shower can contribute to increased moisture levels in a bathroom, fostering an environment where mould can thrive.
Over time, these leaks can cause significant water damage, promoting mould growth in less visible areas such as inside walls or under flooring.
Fix leaks promptly to prevent mould and potential structural damage.
Keeping shower curtains or doors closed
Keeping the shower area closed after use traps moisture inside, delaying the drying process and creating a humid environment conducive to mould growth.
Mould can easily develop on shower curtains, doors, and in tile grout if they remain wet for too long.
To avoid this, leave the shower door or curtain open after use to improve air circulation and allow the area to dry more quickly.
Storing too many products
Shower caddies and corners filled with bottles and accessories may seem harmless, but they can obstruct airflow and trap moisture and creates hidden, moist niches where mould can grow unnoticed.
Keep shampoo and shower gel bottles to a minimum, and regularly clean and dry the areas underneath them to prevent mould growing.
If your mould problem is more severe, Paul suggested using a commercial mould and mildew cleaner – which you can pick up at your local hardware store.
“These products are designed to remove mould from walls, windows, and bathroom surfaces,” he continued.
“Promptly addressing mould growth can help prevent its spread.
“In addition to cleaning, improve ventilation in the affected areas to reduce the risk of future mould issues.”
If you’re struggling with a bad mould issue, you might need to consider redecorating once you’ve dealt with it.
“Stripping the walls and treating the mould will be beneficial in the long run,” Paul advised, “and enables you to address the underlying cause, such as dampness”.
“Prioritise your health by addressing the mould issue and implementing preventative measures before redecorating – and always wear a protective mask and gloves when handling the affected area,” he added.