Mildew menace: Tackle home moisture for healthy living
Mildew is a common problem in many homes, especially during the cooler months. Discover where the smell of mildew originates and how to eliminate it effectively.
Mildew is a frequent issue in many homes, particularly during cooler months when we ventilate less often. It is an unpleasant odour and a sign of moisture, encouraging mould and harmful microorganisms to thrive. Mould can negatively affect health, potentially leading to allergies, skin irritations, and breathing difficulties.
Eliminating the smell of mildew from rooms enhances living comfort and positively impacts all household members' health. It's essential to understand how to recognise it, what causes it, and what steps to take to eradicate it effectively and permanently.
How to recognise mildew in the house?
Recognising mildew in the home is not difficult if you know what to look for. It is characterised by a specific, unpleasant odour accompanying mould development. Common areas include the bathroom, kitchen, and rooms with inadequate ventilation.
Black, grey, or even greenish spots may appear on walls, ceilings, or window frames, which are visible signs of mould. It's crucial to act swiftly upon noticing the first signs - later removal may become more challenging and costly. It is also advisable to regularly check places such as windows, behind furniture, and other nooks not exposed to light, where mould can develop more rapidly.
Why does the smell of mildew appear in rooms?
The primary cause of mildew in homes is moisture, which easily accumulates in rooms with insufficient ventilation. Poor air circulation leads to excessive dampness in walls and ceilings. This issue worsens in autumn and winter when windows are opened less frequently, and rooms are not sufficiently heated. Areas where moisture appears provide an ideal environment for mould and fungi, which, as they develop, produce the characteristic musty odour.
Unfortunately, simply ventilating the rooms is not always sufficient. Problems such as leaky roofs or foundations can further contribute to increased humidity. Daily activities like cooking and laundry also increase moisture levels, which, without proper ventilation, become breeding grounds for mould.
How to get rid of the smell of mildew?
Several home remedies effectively eliminate mildew. One of the most popular is using vinegar, which, when sprayed onto the affected areas and left for about an hour, effectively removes mould stains. Vinegar not only eliminates mould but also helps neutralise unpleasant odours. Instead of spraying vinegar, clean the dirty surface with water and vinegar.
An alternative is hydrogen peroxide, which is worth keeping in the first aid kit. After applying it to mouldy areas, leave it for several minutes and then rinse. Although it’s important to remember that it can bleach the cleaned surface, it is as effective as vinegar in battling mould. Before using hydrogen peroxide, test its effect on a surface in a less visible area.
How to prevent the smell of mildew?
Preventing mildew is key to maintaining a healthy and pleasant home environment. One of the simplest preventive measures is regularly ventilating rooms, ensuring free airflow and reducing moisture levels. In summer, it’s advisable to open windows wide and use micro-ventilation in winter.
Equally important is avoiding excess moisture by drying laundry outside when possible. If indoor drying is necessary, it's best to use dryers equipped with appropriate water vapour removal systems.
When home remedies fail, it’s worthwhile turning to professional cleaning products available in shops. When using them, always follow the label instructions to avoid damaging surfaces.
Devices such as dehumidifiers are also worth considering. They significantly reduce humidity levels in rooms, ensuring a healthy microclimate.
