How to get rid of black mould and damp in your home – top tips for removing mould on walls

Damp and mould are caused by excess moisture. This can be through leaking pipes, rain seeping in from outdoors, or when water used during the building of a new home is yet to dry out. Condensation in the home is another way you could end up harbouring the problem. Not only is it unsightly, damp and black mould can affect your health – making it even more important that you take measures to get rid of it.

So, how can you get rid of black mould in your home?

While prevention is important, it’s important to remember that it’s not impossible to remove the problem from a property.

The NHS website offers a helpful guide on how to fix the issue – but it may be that you need to call in professional help.

First, it’s important to identify the source of moisture, and to fix it.

This may mean preventing the build-up of condensation, such as improving ventilation – i.e. opening windows or using fans when you’re cooking or bathing.

It could also require steps to be taken in order to repair leaks, or to heat up a moisture-rich new-build, the NHS said.

The NHS recommend that you only remove mould yourself if it’s been caused by condensation, and the problem is limited to less than one metre squared.

When undertaking the project yourself, protect yourself from mould spores by wearing protective equipment – such as goggles, long rubber gloves, and a mask for your nose and mouth.

Next, open windows to allow ventilation, but keep doors to other rooms closed. This will reduce the chance of the spores spreading elsewhere.

Have a plastic bag on hand, and place mould-ridden soft furnishings, clothes, and soft toys in them.

The former should be shampooed, while clothes will require a professional dry clean, the NHS said.

The next step is to fill a bucket with water and some mild detergent.

This could be soap used for hand-washing clothes, washing-up liquid, or perhaps even another method – such as hot water and baking soda, or vinegar.

Dip a rag into this water and wipe it from the wall – all the while being careful not to brush it.

Then, use a dry rag to remove the moisture from the problem area, and carefully dispose of them.

The final step is to thoroughly clean the area.

READ MORE: Cold weather tips: How to keep pipes from freezing in cold weather and snow

source: express.co.uk