Mould can affect both your home and your health, but a few simple habits can help
- Open your windows daily to improve airflow.
- Use bathroom fans and kitchen rangehoods when showering and
cooking. - Clean small areas of mould with dishwashing detergent or diluted vinegar (1:4 ratio).
- Watch for signs of moisture, such as mould, peeling paint, water stains, or warped flooring.
- Contact St George Community Housing (SGCH) straight away on 1800 573 370
Moisture encourages mould
Here’s what causes moisture at home:
- Indoor plants like ferns need moist air, so choose low-water plants like succulents for around the house.
- Fish tanks add moisture to the air, especially tropical fish tanks.
- Portable heaters (kerosene or unfluted gas heater) give off moisture and gas. Always ventilate the area.
- Leaking taps and pipes encourage mould, especially in closed areas like cabinets. Signs of leaking water include discoloured or water-stained areas on your walls or ceiling, bubbling paint or warped flooring. Please contact us immediately for repairs support.
How to stop mould growth
There are several things you can do to help stop mould growth:
- Open windows and doors to let fresh air in and reduce humidity.
- Open blinds and curtains during the day to let sunlight in.
- Turn on the exhaust fan or open a window in the bathroom, laundry and kitchen to get rid of steam.
- Wipe down tiles to clean off soap scum that mould feeds on.
- Wipe away any moisture on your windows and walls to keep the inside of your home dry.
- Dry your clothes and shoes before you put them away.
- Air out wardrobes and cupboards regularly.
- Use moisture absorbers in basements, wardrobes and closed-off rooms.
How to remove mould from your home
Once mould is present, here are some tips for removing it from your home:
- Never dry brush a mouldy area or item of clothing. This can release spores into the air that spread the mould further and can cause an allergic reaction in some people.
- High-priced specialty mould removers can contain chlorines and bleaches, which are hazardous if not used the right way. They may also only bleach the mould instead of killing it, which means the problem will keep coming back.
- Use appropriate cleaning agents such as white vinegar or mild detergent and a microfibre cloth to clean mould off walls, floors and tiles. Make sure to dry the area thoroughly after wiping mould off surfaces.
- Regular vacuuming, dusting and cleaning in kitchens and bathrooms helps prevent mould.
The earlier you find and remove mould, the easier it is to keep it under control. It’s much harder to remove mould once it takes hold. If you notice any signs of mould growth in your home, clean them immediately or if you notice any visible signs of a water leak on your walls and ceiling contact SGCH straight away for support.