Mould menace in winter: Tips to safeguard your home
The autumn-winter season is conducive to the development of mould in homes. However, not everyone is aware of the dangers that the presence of mould entails. In addition to respiratory problems, it can lead to severe health issues.
16 October 2024 21:33
The autumn-winter season is a time when temperatures fall, and it becomes cloudy and frosty outside. For this reason, it's worth taking care not only of your body but also your home. This particularly refers to mould, referred to by the British NHS as the "silent killer." When it appears in the house, it can lead to serious problems.
Mould, the "silent killer"
The NHS (National Health Service) warns of mould, which can have harmful effects on health and life, reports ladbible.com. Mould appears primarily in cooler places. In a flat or house, this is mainly the bathroom and the space under the sink, and turning on the heaters does not mean we will avoid the problem.
Using heaters does not stop the growth of mould. It can lead to serious health problems, such as allergies, asthma, or respiratory diseases. In exceptional cases, it can even cause severe health conditions.
How can you tell if there is mould in the flat? Mould is characterised by black, white, or green spots that smell musty. Upon entering the house, you will notice it immediately. People with weakened immune systems, such as infants, small children, and the elderly, will respond very quickly to it.
How to avoid the appearance of mould in the house?
The NHS has shared some advice on how to minimise the risk of mould appearing in the home. Focus on daily activities that will help avoid the problem. First, take shorter showers and turn on the bathroom fan to prevent steam from the shower from turning into liquid.
Secondly, open windows while cooking and drying laundry, which will help moisture escape from the air. Additionally, cook with the extractor fan on.
Thirdly, wipe surfaces near windows, such as windowsills where moisture collects, and also check for leaky pipes and gutters, which can worsen the situation.