As the weather is getting colder and wetter, people are being encouraged to tackle mould issues with homemade remedies instead of spending money on pricey store-bought solutions.
Interior experts at Online-Bedrooms.co.uk have revealed simple solutions for getting rid of black mould and preventing it from growing back.
Mould and dampness are common problems in the autumn and winter if left untreated. Not only can mould escalate and create a harmful environment to live in but it could also potentially cause serious health issues.
Homemade remedies such as water and white vinegar or baking soda, are just some of the effective ways to treat black mould without spending a fortune on branded cleaning products.
Nic Shacklock, an expert at Online-Bedrooms.co.uk, said: “It’s concerning how many people are dealing with damp and mould in their homes.
“While store-bought products can be effective, they can also be costly, so we’re encouraging households to use natural solutions using ingredients they may already have at home.
“Mixing together a simple solution of white vinegar, baking soda or bleach with water can be just as effective as specialist mould removal products.
“If homemade remedies don’t resolve the issue after multiple attempts, we advise contacting professionals to assess the issue, as there could be external factors contributing to the problem.”
Here are five homemade solutions to get rid of black mould:
White vinegar
Mix a solution of distilled white vinegar with water in a spray bottle and use it on areas covered in black mould.
If the spray is used within wardrobes, take all the clothes out and keep the doors open to allow for air circulation. Then wipe it off afterwards with a clean damp cloth. Remember to wear protective gloves when dealing with cleaning products to get rid of mould.
Baking soda
One-third baking soda and two-thirds water is one of the most effective ways to remove black mould. Scrub it into the surface where the mould is and spray it off afterwards with water and wipe it down. This is useful for removing mould growing around windows where condensation is repeatedly present.
Mix together equal parts of bleach and water, spray onto the affected area and leave it to settle for a few hours before rinsing and wiping it away. If the mould has deeper roots, it’s wise to call in the professionals.
Tea tree oil
The anti-frugal properties of tea tree oil make it an extremely effective tool against mould growth. Mix it with water and spray it on the areas most infected. It’s also one of the better solutions to deal with deeper internal growth as it directly targets the fungus.
Grapefruit seed extract
Grapefruit seed extract and water is a useful solution for scrubbing off mould in tight corners and ceilings. Use drops of the extract mixed in a cup of water and leave it for 10 minutes before cleaning it off. It also leaves a refreshing scent compared to typical harsh cleaning products.