The unexpected part of your home that is a ‘breeding ground’ for mould, and could be letting off an awful stench
WITH Scots experiencing an extreme temperature swing this week, many homeowners will have to deal with pesky mould and condensation.
It is a common problem in houses across the country during the winter and it is expected to get worse in the coming weeks due to the constant rise and fall of the mercury levels.
And it can be dangerous to our health if left untreated.
Condensation is water droplets that form on a window when moist air comes into contact with a cold surface.
This, in turn, can cause mould which not only looks awful inside the home but can also be a pain to get rid of.
Condensation can also be caused by cooking, showering, washing up, doing laundry, gas or paraffin heaters, and even indoor plants.
Meaning mould is often found in bathrooms or kitchens where there is more humidity.
But one expert has revealed that there is actually another part of the home that is a “breeding ground” for mould – and it could be letting off an awful stench.
Mould can affect the furniture’s quality and appearance, damaging the fabric and causing tears.
Joana Sadovskaja
Joana Sadovskaja, Furniture Expert at Lovesofas, said our sofas are incredibly vulnerable to mould growth.
She said: “Several factors including a drop in temperature and seasonal climate changes, high humidity levels, and poor ventilation affect a home’s environment, increasing the chances of mould growth.
“Our homes are prone to condensation during the colder seasons, with the increased dampness creating the perfect breeding ground for mould.
“This moisture can reach surfaces, including sofas and chairs, making fabrics vulnerable to this fungus.
“Mould can affect the furniture’s quality and appearance, damaging the fabric and causing tears.
“Mould growth can also produce a foul smell, causing a room to become an unpleasant environment.
“Not only is mould damaging to furniture, but it can also become a health risk, particularly for those with respiratory conditions.
Luckily, the expert revealed how we can prevent it from growing on our sofas and other pieces of furniture.
And she also shared the exact humidity levels that we should aim to have in our home to keep moisture at bay.
Joana added: “Fortunately, there are ways to prevent mould growth on furniture this winter.
How you could damage your sofa this winter
JOANA also revealed other ways that we could be damaging our sofas during the colder months - and it's bad news if it's placed in front of a radiator.
She said: “During the colder months, it’s inevitable that heating usage will increase. However, depending on where the sofa is placed, this winter habit could lead to damage.
“Those with their settee placed directly in front of a radiator could experience upholstery damage, as prolonged exposure to heat can lead to colour fading and deterioration. This exposure can make the upholstery vulnerable and prone to wear and tear.
“Excessive exposure to heat can also cause the upholstery to shrink and sag over time, resulting in a worn-out appearance. Colour fading can particularly affect leather sofas, hindering their appearance and leading to deterioration.
“It’s also important to note that different materials react uniquely to heat exposure. While leather may fade and crack, synthetic fabrics can melt or warp, so understanding how your upholstery responds to prolonged heat is key to protecting its longevity.
“Placing a sofa too close to a radiator can also obstruct airflow, reducing the efficiency of your heating system. This not only leads to uneven room temperatures but also causes your heating system to work harder, potentially increasing your energy bills.
“Another risk to consider is condensation. In spaces with limited ventilation, positioning furniture too near a heat source can trap moisture and cause condensation behind the sofa, which could result in mould growth. This can damage both your sofa and the surrounding walls.
“While heat exposure can damage your upholstery, it’s also important to keep fire safety in mind. Certain fabrics or padding materials can become a fire hazard when placed too close to radiators, so ensuring a safe distance between your furniture and heat sources is about more than just preservation—it’s essential for protecting your home.
“If moving your sofa isn’t an option, consider using alternatives like heat shields, reflective panels, or radiator covers. These can help safeguard your furniture and improve heat distribution throughout the room, ensuring comfort and protection during the colder months.”
“Improving your home’s ventilation is crucial to welcoming fresh air into the space.
“Opening windows and doors is a great way to circulate fresh air and prevent mould growth.
“Using a dehumidifier can help control humidity levels, keeping moisture at bay.
“Ensure humidity levels are between 30-50 per cent for a safe environment.
“Insulating your home by investing in thermal insulation or double-glazing and using low-level heating will reduce condensation and prevent mould growth.”