Mould prevention | Tenant news

With increased energy costs it’s likely that you might be keeping windows closed to keep the heat in, drying clothes on a clothes horse indoors instead of using a tumble dryer or taking hot showers instead of baths.

All of these activities mean increased levels of moisture and condensation in the home, which can be particularly bad in cold weather as our homes are warmer inside and the outside air is colder. Typical

signs of condensation are:

• Mould growth on walls
• Moist wall surfaces
• Water staining and streaking on walls
• Patches of damp with no obvious edges.

Ways to help prevent condensation

• Keep your home warm by maintaining a low level of heating throughout the day
• Use extractor fans in the kitchen and bathroom & open windows
• Treat and remove any mould growth with an over the counter fungicidal product
• Dry clean mildewed clothes and shampoo mouldy carpets
• After treating mould affected areas, redecorate using a fungicidal paint.

Natural mould cleaning methods

If you have allergies you can try a natural mould removal solution.

Sprinkle baking soda directly onto the mouldy surface and let it sit. After an hour, scrub the area with a hard bristled brush and wipe off the residue.

Rinse the area with soapy water, or use a vinegar water solution to remove any remaining mould. Leave the surface to dry completely, and keep an eye on the area.

If the mould returns and becomes unmanageable, report it to our Customer Services Team at Habinteg Direct on 0300 365 3100.

For more information on health and safety in your home, visit www.habinteg.org.uk/health-and-safety.