Combatting mildew at home: Effective removal and prevention tips
Mildew is common in many homes, especially during the cooler months. Discover where the mildew smell originates from and how to eliminate it effectively.
19 November 2024 15:59
Mildew is a recurring problem in numerous homes, particularly during cooler months when we ventilate less frequently. It emits an unpleasant odour and signifies moisture, which fosters mould growth and harmful microorganisms. Mould can adversely affect our health, potentially causing allergies, skin irritations, and breathing difficulties.
Getting rid of the mildew smell from rooms not only enhances living comfort but also impacts the health of all household members. It is important to know how to identify it, what causes it, and what steps to take to effectively and permanently eliminate it.
How to recognize mildew in the house?
Identifying mildew in the home is not difficult if you know what to look for. It is marked by a distinctive, unpleasant odour that often accompanies mould growth. Common areas include the bathroom, kitchen, and rooms with insufficient ventilation.
Black, grey, or even greenish spots may appear on walls, ceilings, or window frames, indicating mould presence. Acting quickly after noticing the first signs is crucial—later removal may be much more challenging and costly. Regularly inspecting areas around windows, behind furniture, and other poorly lit nooks, where mould can develop faster, is also advisable.
Why does the smell of mildew appear in rooms?
The primary cause of mildew in homes is moisture, which easily accumulates in rooms with poor ventilation. Inadequate air circulation leads to excess moisture in walls and ceilings. This phenomenon intensifies during the fall and winter when windows are opened less frequently, and rooms may not be adequately heated. Moist areas provide an ideal environment for mould and fungi, which produce the characteristic musty smell as they develop.
Unfortunately, simply ventilating the rooms is not always enough. Issues like leaky roofs or foundations can also contribute to increased humidity. Daily activities such as cooking and laundry cause moisture to accumulate, which, without proper ventilation, becomes a breeding ground for mould.
How to get rid of the smell of mildew?
Several home methods effectively eliminate mildew. One popular method is vinegar, which effectively removes mould stains after spraying the affected areas and waiting about an hour. Vinegar not only eliminates mould but also helps neutralize unpleasant odours. Instead of spraying vinegar, clean the affected surface with water and vinegar.
An alternative option 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. Remember that it can bleach the cleaned surface but is as effective as vinegar in combating 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 essential for maintaining a healthy and pleasant home environment. One of the simplest preventive measures is regularly ventilating rooms, which ensures good airflow and reduces moisture levels. It's advantageous to open windows widely in summer and use micro-ventilation techniques in winter.
Equally important is avoiding excess moisture by drying laundry outside whenever possible. It's best to use dryers with suitable water vapour removal systems if indoor drying is necessary.
When home remedies are unsuccessful, consider using professional cleaning products available in stores. Always follow the label instructions to avoid damaging surfaces when using these products.
Devices such as dehumidifiers are also worth considering. They significantly reduce humidity levels in rooms, providing a healthy indoor environment.
