10 Jan 2025

How To Combat Mould And Mildew In Your Home

young man wearing a mask ready to clean his home

Entering your home and finding the musty smell of mildew or seeing dark patches of mould on your walls, ceilings, or carpets can be unsettling. Mould and mildew, besides being unpleasant, can seriously affect your health if not tackled in time.

The fungi prefer moist and wet areas, and these organisms can cause considerable damage when not treated. If you are planning on professional vacate cleaning Perth or just need to keep your home healthy, you must address the mould and mildew immediately.

This guide is aimed at offering practical and effective ways to battle mould and mildew in the home. By acting quickly to remove mould and control moisture, you'll create a healthier home and stop it from coming back. Regular maintenance and moisture control are key to long-term prevention.

1. What Are Mould and Mildew?

mould on a wall inside of a house

Mould and mildew are both types of fungi that grow a damp environment. Mold is often found on wood or drywall and sometimes on the top of the carpet as black spots, greenish, or bluish. Mildew is whitish or greyish and occurs in rooms where moisture cannot readily escape, such as bathrooms and basements. Although they appear pretty much the same, mould is more destructive on surfaces and materials than mildew. Mildew can be simply scrubbed off.

Mould and mildew bring health issues such as allergies and respiratory problems. This is why one should pay attention once these start growing.

2. How Mould and Mildew Grow

Mould and mildew require moisture to thrive. They are most commonly found in areas with poor ventilation and high humidity. If your home has experienced water damage from leaks, floods, or condensation, you may be at risk of mould growth. Common places where mould and mildew are likely to form include bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and areas around windows or pipes that leak.

If there’s an excess of moisture in your home, mould will find a place to grow. The key to prevention is controlling the moisture levels. Once the source of moisture is removed, you can start cleaning and treating the affected areas.

3. Identifying Hidden Mould and Mildew

One of the challenges with mould and mildew is that they’re not always visible. They can grow behind walls, under carpets, or in areas where you may not frequently look. This hidden mould can cause significant damage and pose serious health risks without you even realising it. To identify hidden mould, be on the lookout for signs like a persistent musty smell, especially in closed-off areas like closets, basements, or behind furniture.

If you notice unexplained dampness or water stains on walls or ceilings, these could also indicate hidden mould. Regularly inspecting these areas, even if they seem unaffected, can help catch mould before it becomes a major problem.

4. Effective Cleaning Methods for Mould and Mildew

Once you've identified the problem, it’s time to clean the affected areas. There are several effective cleaning methods for getting rid of mould and mildew. Here are a few simple solutions:

  • White Vinegar: White vinegar is a natural disinfectant and can kill most types of mould and mildew. Simply spray undiluted vinegar directly onto the affected area and let it sit for about an hour. Scrub with a brush, and then wipe away the excess.
  • Baking Soda: Baking soda is another natural cleaning agent that can remove mildew. Mix it with water to form a paste, apply it to the affected surface, and scrub it away with a brush. It’s especially useful for cleaning tiles, grout, and other hard surfaces.
  • Hydrogen Peroxide: For tougher mould, hydrogen peroxide is a great option. Spray it onto the surface and let it sit for at least 10 minutes. Scrub the area with a brush to remove the mould. It’s effective on both porous and non-porous surfaces.
  • Bleach Solution: For persistent mould issues, a bleach solution can be used. Mix one part bleach to ten parts water and apply it to the mouldy surface. Allow it to sit for several minutes before scrubbing it off.

Remember to wear gloves, a mask, and protective eyewear when cleaning mould to avoid exposure to harmful spores. If the problem is widespread or in hidden areas, consider seeking professional help.

5. When to Seek Professional Help

If you're planning to vacate cleaning in Perth or need to tackle a severe mould issue, professional cleaning services are an excellent option. These experts have the proper tools and cleaning solutions to handle even the most stubborn mould growth. They can also help identify hidden mould in hard-to-reach areas, ensuring that your home is fully cleaned and safe.

Professional cleaners can also give you advice on how to prevent future mould problems and ensure that your home remains in top condition.

Tips to Banish Mould and Mildew From Your Home

How to Combat Mould And Mildew In Your Home

Wrapping Up

Mould and mildew are common but preventable issues in the home. By understanding their causes and taking immediate action to remove them, you can protect both your home and your health. Regular cleaning, proper ventilation, and addressing moisture issues will go a long way in keeping your living space free from mould. If you're preparing for vacate cleaning in Perth, don't hesitate to call in professionals to ensure a thorough job. Combatting mould and mildew don’t have to be overwhelming; take the right steps, and your home will be healthier and cleaner in the long run.