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Tips to get rid of black mould
Home > Damp/Mould/Condensation > Tips to get rid of black mould
Post by Daniel Bray
23/02/2019

Black mould can grow on everything from shower curtains, walls and even your clothes.  Not only is it unsightly to look at, it can also have an effect on your health!

The Basics

What is black mould?
also known as Stachybotrys, is a type of fungus that thrives from wet humid and warm conditions. These can come in toxic and non toxic forms but determining which one you have in your house would involve of sending a sample to a laboratory.

Why do we get it?

Condensation is the main cause of mould forming,

If there is a lot of moisture in the air with a lack airflow, the moisture sits on surfaces such as walls and shower curtains. The excess moisture is generally from condensation which forms when there is too much moisture in the air, from showering, cooking and drying clothes indoors, leaving the little droplets creating a breeding ground for mould to form.

Can it harm me?
Yes it can, exposure to damp and mould can cause respiratory problems and can make existing respiratory and skin problems worsen. To find out more about the health implications the NHS website has more information.

So..How do I get rid of it?

  1. There are ways of getting rid of mould but it is important to ensure you find the cause of the problem as it will only return if not. If you think the cause of the problem is something you can control yourself then invest in a "Mould and Mildew Remover spray". Which can be found at most supermarkets for under £10.00. Wear gloves and a respiratory mask. It's better to be safe than sorry.
  2. If the cause is something you can't identify or control it's always better to seek advice from professionals in your area they will advise what is best for you and your house. They may advise installing a ventilation unit or other measures.

How do I prevent it?

Produce less moisture

  •  Cook with pan lids on and turn the heat down once the water has boiled.
  • Fill the bath, run the cold water first then add the hot – it will reduce the steam which leads to condensation by up to 90%.
  •  Never dry laundry on radiators.
  • Dry washing outdoors if possible, or put it in the bathroom with the door closed and the window open or extractor fan on.
  • Do not use gas heaters.
  • If you use a tumble dryer, make sure it is vented to the outside for this) or that the tumble dryer is of the new condensing type.

Ventilate to remove moisture

  • You can ventilate your home without making draughts by keeping a small window ajar.
  • Ventilate kitchens and bathrooms when in use.
  • Close the kitchen and bathroom doors when these rooms are in use, even if your kitchen or bathroom has an extractor fan.
  • Ventilate cupboards and wardrobes and avoid putting too many things in them as this stops the air circulating.
  • Double glazing should have trickle vents
  • Extractor fans should be automatically humidistat controlled.

If you have concerns regarding mould in your house and would like Bray's to visit your property and provide expert advice. Get in touch you can:

Call us on 01484 911 191, email [email protected] or fill in the form on the right hand side of this page for a call-back.

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