Many British households struggle with black mould on their windows and walls due to damp and cold weather conditions. However, it’s important not to let this issue go on for too long, as it can pose serious health risks, including respiratory illnesses, allergies, and asthma.

Joshua Houston, Window Expert at GreenMatch, has shared his tip for effectively cleaning and removing mould safely, as he warned of the potential health risks. He said: “Black mould on and around your windows can be dangerous to your physical health. This is because it releases spores into the air, which can cause respiratory issues. It’s particularly damaging to people with pre-existing conditions like asthma.”

Despite its risks, mould around windows is all too common, particularly in older or poorly sealed frames, and left untreated, it can gradually eat away at your home’s structure and your wellbeing.

“Mould can wear you down over time, having a seriously negative effect on your life,” Houston stressed.

Before jumping into a removal routine, it’s important to identify the underlying issue, as in many cases, mould is the result of damaged window frames allowing moisture to seep in.

Houston advised: “Get rid of this mould now to not only improve your property’s ability to attract sunlight but also to look after your physical health.”

Once the source of the damp has been addressed – whether that’s a minor repair or full window replacement – you can safely tackle the mould itself, provided the affected area is small (under one square metre) and not caused by contaminated water.

After that’s done, Houston shared his cleaning method using a simple homemade solution that makes mould removal not only effective but accessible, returning your window area to its former sparkling clean glory in no time.

The step-by-step process requires just a bucket of soapy water, protective gear, and a few disposable cloths.

How to clean the mould around windows

Step 1

Start by preparing a cleaning solution: fill a bucket with warm water and add a small amount of washing-up liquid. Mix gently to create a soapy mixture.

Step 2

Take a clean cloth and soak it in the soapy water. Gently dab or press it against the affected area to lift the mould. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing back and forth, as this can disturb the spores and lead to further spread.

Step 3

After removing the visible mould, take a separate, dry cloth and carefully blot the surface to absorb any remaining dampness and prevent future growth.

Step 4

Dispose of both cloths immediately after use. Do not reuse them, as they may carry mould spores.

Step 5

Finally, clean the surrounding surface – either by vacuuming it with a HEPA-filter hoover or giving it a final wipe down – to ensure any lingering particles are removed completely.