Preventing & Removing Mould

How to Prevent Mould

Preventing mould before it has a chance to establish itself is much more effective than trying to remove it once it's already settled in.

There are some actions you can take to immediately lessen your mould risk that won’t cost much, if anything, such as:

• Leave the window ajar, which allows damp air to escape. Or opt for strong intermittent ventilation, such as opening the bathroom window fully for ten minutes at a time throughout the day.
• Eliminate excess moisture in spaces such as bathrooms by simply wiping away water stains and damp walls, and using a tool such as a squeegee to dry the shower/bath cabinet after use. Make sure you’re especially vigilant around the corners as this is where water tends to accumulate.
• Remove wet laundry from your bathroom. This means don’t hang clothes to dry in your bathroom if you can help it, and try to change wet bath towels frequently.
• Use your extractor fan in both your bathroom and kitchen to help reduce the humidity level in your room, preventing condensation and improving overall ventilation and airflow.

If you want to take heavier precautionary measures, you’ll have to adopt a multi-faceted approach, combining quick fixes, medium-term strategies, and long-term solutions. Quick fixes like using anti-mould paints and coatings can provide an immediate barrier against mould growth. Medium-term solutions focus on controlling moisture and humidity levels through proper ventilation, dehumidifiers and regular maintenance. For a more permanent solution, consider investing in mould-resistant drywall and damp-proofing insulation to safeguard your home for the long haul. All these measures help address the underlying causes of mould, which you can read more about in our other guide’s section on ‘What causes Mould’. By implementing these strategies, you can create a healthier environment and significantly reduce the risk of mould taking hold in your home.

For a cost-effective and time-efficient solution, anti-mould and mildew paints are an excellent option. Anti-mould paints and coatings are specially formulated to prevent mould growth by incorporating biocides and fungicides, which inhibit the development of mould spores. These paints offer a versatile approach to fighting mould: with waterproofing properties, moisture-repellence and micro-porous technology, they instantly reduce the dampness that mould thrives on whilst still preventing condensation build-up. High-quality anti-mould paints, such as Zinsser Perma-White, provide long-lasting protection for those at-risk high-humidity areas and are easy to apply, making them an effective and accessible preventive measure for homeowners. The cost does depend on how many coats you choose to use, the size of your kitchen/bathroom and the brand you choose, but is still one of the cheapest methods to prevent mould.

Dehumidifiers and proper ventilation are valuable tools in the fight against mould growth, particularly in areas of the home prone to high humidity. By reducing the overall moisture level in the air, you’ll create an environment less conducive to mould development. For dehumidifiers, this is achieved through their ability to draw in humid air, remove excess moisture and release dry air back into the room. In terms of vents, such as exhaust vents, they help by circulating air throughout your home, which reduces the buildup of humidity, airborne mould spores and other contaminants. Maintaining indoor humidity levels below 60% is crucial in preventing mould, but the cost will depend on your house size. For a 19L domestic dehumidifier, it’ll cost you around £1.30 per day to run but this can increase in price threefold depending on the size and adsorption level you’re after. For vents, you can get a passive vent, such as a soffit vent, for as little as £3, though electric exhaust vents can be anywhere from £15 to £100.

Proper insulation and damp proofing play a pivotal in the battle against mould growth by addressing fundamental factors that contribute to indoor moisture levels. Effective insulation helps maintain consistent indoor temperatures, preventing condensation on cold surfaces such as walls and ceilings. By minimising thermal bridging and cold spots, insulation reduces the conditions conducive to mould formation. On the other hand, damp proofing, such as damp proofing rods, act as a barrier against moisture ingress from the ground or external sources like rainwater; they prevent rising damp and protect building materials from water damage, thereby thwarting the development of mould-friendly environments. Together, these strategies form a comprehensive approach to moisture control, enhancing both the structural integrity of the home and the quality of indoor air. If you’d like to learn more about how to effectively use damp proofing and insulation to safeguard your home against mould.

How to get Rid of Mould?

Addressing mould that has already taken hold in your home requires effective strategies tailored to different surfaces and materials. Whether it's on ceilings, walls, fabrics, or other areas, prompt action is essential to prevent further spread and potential health risks. This section offers methods and recommended products for safely and thoroughly eliminating mould from various surfaces and provides targeted approaches that will help restore cleanliness and maintain a healthy indoor environment.

How to get rid of mould on walls

This section explains what to do when you find minor or moderate white, green, grey, or brown mould. If you are looking to remove black mould, please refer to the ‘How to get Rid of Black Mould?’ section.

To effectively remove mould from walls, start by ensuring adequate ventilation in the area through open windows and fans. The choice of mould removal product depends on both the severity of the mould and the type of surface being cleaned. If you have severe mould that stretches across whole walls or ceilings, please consider getting a specialist in to treat it. Read our section on ‘DIY vs. Professional Mould Removal’ for more information.

	Minor mould	Mild to moderate	Moderate to severe
Appearance	Typically appears as small patches or spots, usually less than a square foot in total area.	Can appear as larger patches, often showing more pronounced growth and spreading across a more significant area	Appears as extensive, thick patches or widespread coverage with a potential musty smell. The colour may range from black to green, brown, or even white.
Size	Minor infestations only affect areas of space 30cm² to 40cm² and the mould can not have permeated silicone seals.	Affects larger areas than minor mould but is still confined to specific sections, usually covering up to 30cm² to 60cm².	Moderate mould affects extensive areas, often larger than 2 square feet, and can cover large sections of rooms.
Location	Often found in isolated spots, such as on grout lines, around windows, or in small bathroom corners.	May be found in multiple areas within a room or on various surfaces like walls, ceilings, and floors.	Found throughout a room or multiple rooms, indicating a significant underlying moisture problem.
Solution	Light mould growth is superficial and can be wiped away easily, making natural alternatives like vinegar or hydrogen peroxide effective; they are less abrasive and suitable for less severe cases where mould is easily accessible and not deeply embedded. They are also safer options for homes with children or pets.	For light mould growth on painted or non-porous surfaces, mild detergent solutions or diluted bleach can be effective. This isn’t as harsh as the specialised chemical cleaners and the ingredients can often be found in your home already.	For more stubborn mould or porous surfaces such as unpainted drywall or wood, consider using specialised mould removers. These products are formulated with stronger chemicals or enzymes designed to penetrate porous materials and eliminate mould at the root.
Ingredients	Mix 1 part of vinegar with 1 part water Mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda to 2 cups of water	1 part bleach to 10 parts water Methylated spirit or rubbing alcohol with a volume of at least 70%	Mapei UltraCare Mould Remover Fila Algacid Active Mould Remover
Application	Use a sponge, cloth or scrub brush to gently scrub the solution onto the mould. After treatment, rinse the area thoroughly with clean water and allow it to dry completely, using a dry cloth to remove the excess moisture.	Use a sponge or scrub brush to gently scrub the solution onto the mould. After treatment, rinse the area thoroughly with clean water and allow it to dry completely, using a dry cloth to remove the excess moisture.	If you’re going for a specialised product as opposed to a natural solution, follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding application and safety precautions.

For more detailed information on selecting the right product and safety precautions when handling mould, refer to the dedicated section later in this guide.

How to get rid of mould on ceilings

The causes of the mould can differ depending on the location; ceiling mould often indicates roof leaks or plumbing issues in upper floors, whereas lower walls are more commonly affected by rising damp from the ground. However, whilst the preparation and application of removing mould from ceilings can be a little more difficult than walls for obvious reasons, after a few adaptions, the process itself is very similar. Here are some things to consider:

Preparation - Cover floors and furniture with plastic sheeting to protect them from cleaning solutions and falling debris.

Application - A long-handled brush would be best for overhead applications, though you can carefully use a ladder if one is not available.

Away from these adjustments, you can use the same process and products as you would for mould on walls.

How to get rid of mould on fabric

Mould can grow on clothes due to various factors, primarily related to moisture and humidity. Common causes include storing clothes in damp or poorly ventilated areas, putting away wet or damp clothes, exposure to flooding or water damage, leaving dirty laundry unwashed for extended periods, and airborne mould spores settling on fabrics.

Here’s how you can effectively remove mould from clothing and fabric:

1. Start by taking the affected items outside to prevent mould spores from spreading indoors.
2. Brush off any visible mould with a soft brush while wearing gloves and a mask.
3. Soak the fabric in a solution of water and white vinegar (one part vinegar to four parts water) for at least an hour.
4. After soaking, wash the clothing in the hottest water recommended for the fabric with a detergent containing bleach or another mould-killing ingredient. For stubborn mould stains, add a cup of white vinegar or baking soda to the wash cycle.
5. After washing, inspect the fabric to ensure all mould has been removed; repeat the process if necessary.
6. Finally, dry the clothing thoroughly in direct sunlight if possible, as UV rays help kill remaining mould spores. Ensure the fabric is completely dry before storing to prevent mould from returning.

To avoid mould growth on clothes and fabric in the future, here are some prevention tips:

• Ensure Clothes are Dry: Always dry clothes thoroughly before storing them.
• Use Dehumidifiers: In high-humidity areas, use dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels.
• Improve Ventilation: Ensure closets and storage areas are well-ventilated.
• Clean and Inspect: Regularly clean storage areas and inspect for signs of mould.
• Store Properly: Use breathable garment bags or containers to allow air circulation.

How to get Rid of Black Mould

Black mould thrives in damp, humid conditions and prefers cellulose-rich materials like wood, drywall, and paper. Although all moulds are dangerous and should be handled with care, black mould is often more toxic and can produce mycotoxins that can cause serious health issues, such as respiratory problems or allergic reactions. This means you may want to approach its treatment differently from other kinds of mould.

Method - DIY home methods such as vinegar or baking soda and bleach won’t be a strong enough solution for black mould. Instead, black mould requires stronger cleaning solutions such as commercial mould removers, bleach, or hydrogen peroxide.

Safety - You can tackle other kinds of mould using standard PPE such as gloves, goggles and maybe a basic mask. Black mould, however, requires a more stringent approach to safety, especially if it covers a larger area. This can include heavier gloves, a filtered respirator and even disposable coveralls.

Please note that sufficient safety measures should be taken when removing all kinds of mould. Read our section on ‘Safety Precautions When Handling Mould’ for more information.

DIY vs. Professional Mould Removal

Deciding between DIY mould removal and professional services can be challenging. Each approach has its own benefits and drawbacks, depending on the severity and extent of the mould infestation. This section will help you understand the pros and cons of both methods, when to opt for each, and key considerations to ensure effective and safe mould remediation.

DIY Mould Removal & When to Use It

DIY methods are best used for small, contained areas, such as minor mould growth (less than 10 square feet) on surfaces like bathroom tiles or small patches on walls. They are also suitable for non-toxic mould types where the exposure risk is minimal. Additionally, DIY methods are effective for routine cleaning and prevention in high-humidity areas, helping to maintain a mould-free environment with regular upkeep.

Professional Mould Removal & When to Use It

Professional services are essential for large or severe infestations, where mould covers more than 10 square feet, spreads across multiple areas, or penetrates deeply into materials. They are also crucial for dealing with toxic mould types, such as black mould (Stachybotrys chartarum), which pose significant health risks. Professional help is needed when you suspect mould in hidden areas like inside walls, under floors, or in HVAC systems. Additionally, if household members have allergies, asthma or weakened immune systems, professional removal ensures thorough decontamination and a safer environment.

Safety Precautions When Handling Mould

Mould can cause a range of health issues, from eye irritation to allergic reactions and respiratory issues, meaning proper safety measures have to be taken when dealing with its removal. If you’d like to learn more about the dangers of mould, please read our section on ‘Can Mould Make You Sick?’.

Adequate safety gear should be worn for all kinds of mould, however, black or severe mould (affecting an extensive area) needs to be handled with extra precaution as it’s more dangerous. If you are dealing with severe mould, we recommend you consider hiring a professional, but if that option is not available to you, here’s some advice on how you can protect yourself:

Protective Gear	White, green, grey, or brown mould	Black or severe mould
Gloves	Lightweight rubber, latex, or nitrile gloves Protects your hands from contact with mould spores and cleaning solution.	Heavy-duty rubber, latex, or nitrile gloves Offers better protection against more aggressive cleaning solutions and potential mycotoxins.
Goggles	Standard safety goggles or glasses Protects your eyes from splashes of cleaning solutions	Safety goggles with a tight seal Provides complete eye protection from spores and harsh chemicals.
Masks	Basic dust mask or N95 mask Prevents inhalation of mould spores.	N95 respirator or a full-face respirator with a P100 filter. Offers higher filtration efficiency to prevent inhalation of toxic spores and fumes.
Masks	Old clothing that covers as much skin as possible (long sleeves and trousers) Protects your skin and can be washed or disposed of afterwards.	Disposable coveralls or washable long-sleeved shirts and trousers and disposable shoe covers or rubber boots Provides full-body coverage to stop spores from contacting the skin, reduces the risk of spreading and prevents tracking spores through the house.

Can Mould Return After Removal?

Mould can indeed return after removal if the underlying causes are not addressed. While cleaning and removing visible mould is crucial, it's equally important to eliminate the conditions that promote mould growth, such as excess moisture and poor ventilation. If leaks, high humidity, or inadequate airflow persist, mould spores can quickly recolonise the area. Regular maintenance, proper ventilation, and the use of mould-resistant materials can significantly reduce the chances of mould returning. However, constant vigilance and preventive measures are essential to keep mould at bay and ensure a healthy indoor environment.

If you want to learn more about mould, consider reading our other guides:

If you’d like to learn about how to identify mould, its causes and the health concerns that come with it, check out our ‘Identifying & Understanding Mould’ Guide.

If you’d like to learn about effective ways you can build a home with mould-resistant properties, check out our ‘Types of Damp and Tips To Tackle It’ Guide