Get rid of mouldy sealant with a two-ingredient paste (Image: Getty)
The UK’s typically cold, and dark weather is the ideal breeding ground for troublesome damp and .
This pesky fungus thrives in poorly ventilated areas, and while keeping windows shut helps ward off the chill, it also turns your into a haven for multiplying mould spores.
For those already battling mould at home, there’s affordable advice from cleaning guru Nancy Emery of , reports .
With winter’s arrival, Nancy said: “People may be starting to notice the presence of mould in their homes as we head into the colder and wetter months.
“There are several types of mould and recognising the way they present is essential to tackling the problem early. Black mould commonly grows in small, dot-like clusters and can have a slightly unpleasant smell that accompanies it.
“While this type of mould can appear anywhere in the home, it is most common in the bathroom (where there is less ventilation), behind furniture and in corners of bedrooms. Not only is black mould unsightly, if left untreated, it can pose serious health problems from breathing in its spores.”
Read more
Bicarb costs less than £1 (Image: Getty)
In contrast, “Like black mould, blue and green mould usually grow in high moisture areas. Although they do not pose the same health risks to most people.”
“When it comes to tackling mould, there are a number of simple affordable products you can use that may already be in your cupboards!”
Baking soda – 65p
Vinegar and bleach are often recommended, but the effectiveness of bicarbonate of soda may be overlooked. It’s also one of the most affordable mould busters. At Tesco, .
Nancy said: “Silicone sealant can be a haven for mould due to its porosity and use in areas regularly exposed to water.”
“Mould in silicone is not only an eyesore but it is also bad for your health. To remove it, rub together a paste of 250ml white vinegar and 2-3 teaspoons of baking soda into the affected areas.”
“Ensure you’ve got a thick layer over the mould, leaving it to soak for around five minutes. Then, using a stiff-bristled brush scrub the black mould away from the sealant.”
“It is important to scrub firmly, but don’t be too rough, as silicone sealant is delicate. Finish with a cold, wet sponge to rinse.”
Fresh air is hugely important – and free (Image: Getty)
Tea tree oil – £5 to £10
Not just good for acne, tea tree oil works on mould too.
All you need to do is dilute it with water for an easy no-scrub mould solution. Prices vary, but whilst a bottle at .
“Tea tree oil is a bathroom staple with many uses, from clearing up fungal infections on the skin to busting mould on walls in your home.”
“Simply mix two teaspoons of tea tree oil with 250ml of water in a spray bottle. Then, spray directly onto the mould and leave to soak for around an hour. Finally, scrub and then wipe away with a clean cloth! “
Ventilate rooms – free
“One of the best ways to stop mould growth is to thoroughly ventilate your home. Open your windows daily and use existing extractor fans in your bathroom and kitchen,” advised the expert.
The reason this advice is so widely given is clear: “Mould thrives in warm, damp areas and has airborne spores, so increasing ventilation will limit the spread. When following the tips above, it is essential to open windows to stop you from breathing in any harmful spores.”