Reducing mould and condensation during winter

As we are in the midst of winter, we wanted to share our tips for reducing mould, dampness, and condensation in your home.

A dry and well-aired home is easier to heat and helps to reduce mould, creating a healthier space for you, your family, and your friends. The most common cause of mould is an excess of condensation in the home, which occurs when wet, warm air touches cold surfaces and causes water to form. Mould can cause serious health issues for people living in the home, so it is important to take the following steps to reduce the risk:

• Open windows and doors daily – even though it may be cold outside, having fresh air circulate through your home daily is key to airing it out, reducing condensation and mould.
• Keep furniture and beds away from walls and windows, leaving gaps for airflow.
• Do not place mattresses directly on the ground. Ensure your beds are on a frame and above the ground as moisture gets trapped underneath them.
• Turn on ventilation, such as extractor fans and range hoods in your kitchen when cooking. Keep lids on pots to reduce moisture.
• Use the extractor fan in your bathroom when having a bath or shower. Keep the fan on or open a window afterwards to ensure all steam and condensation clear.
• Hang washing outside to dry, not inside.
• Wipe away condensation and mould on walls and windows as you see it.
• Use energy-efficient heaters. Try not to use gas heaters as these emit moisture.
• Use a dehumidifier, especially on damp days. These drain the moisture out of the air and make it easier to heat.
• Keeping your heat pump on during the day, even if you are out for most of the day, at a lower temperature can be more energy-efficient and cost-effective than turning on your heat pump only in the morning or night at a high temperature. Set your heat pump to around 17-18 degrees during the day and adjust it to a higher temperature as needed when you are home. This will help keep your home warm and dry.
• Use a bleach/water mixture or a vinegar/water mixture to clean mould off walls and windows.