WHEN it comes to getting rid of mould, a lot of the products that claim to do so are packed with dangerous chemicals.
But one cleaning pro has revealed there’s a 100% natural household staple that could eliminate mould on your bath and shower sealant – and stop it coming back permanently.
While the silicone product that lines baths and showers is waterproof, it has a tendency to peel away, and nasty mould spores can easily grow underneath.
But cleaning expert Ollie Lyon suggests turning to a much-loved product to eliminate mould once and for all.
“Luckily if you spot mould in your bathroom or around the rest of your home, there are a few things you can do to get rid of it,” Ollie said.
“Mild white vinegar is a brilliant mould deterrent.
“Its acidity makes it inhospitable for mould to grow, and vinegar can clean up to 82 per cent of mould species.”
To use white vinegar, combine equal parts of the liquid and warm water in a spray bottle.
Then spritz the mouldy area with the homemade solution.
Allow to sit for an hour – or longer for stubborn patches – before wiping the solution off.
Rinse with warm water before using a towel to completely dry the treated area.
“Dry the surface thoroughly with a towel to prevent any mould re-growth,” PlumbNation expert Ollie advised.
“Keep a bottle of vinegar handy in the bathroom and spray onto mould-prone surfaces every few days.
“Vinegar ensures that mould will never grow back on the applied surfaces.”
Other things you can do to keep mould in your bathroom at bay is to wipe down surfaces once you’ve had a bath or shower.
This gets rid of the moisture and, as mould can only live in humid conditions, reduces the chance of it popping up.
Plumbworld, a leading expert in bathroom and kitchen products, has shared the daily habits that increase the chance of mould growing in homes.
Leaving wet towels and bathmats on floor
Wet towels and bathmats on the floors after a shower or bath can increase humidity levels which provides a perfect breeding ground for mould spores.
To prevent this, hang towels and bathmats in an area where they can dry quickly and to wash them regularly.
Not turning on the fan
An exhaust fan is critical in reducing moisture levels in the bathroom.
When taking a hot shower or bath, steam increases the room’s humidity level, creating an ideal setting for mould to flourish on walls, ceilings, and other surfaces.
An exhaust fan helps by moving the moist air outside, significantly reducing the risk of mould growth.
Experts suggest running the fan during the shower and for at least 20-30 minutes afterwards to lower humidity levels.
Ignoring small leaks
Even minor leaks from the sink, toilet, or shower can contribute to increased moisture levels in a bathroom, fostering an environment where mould can thrive.
Over time, these leaks can cause significant water damage, promoting mould growth in less visible areas such as inside walls or under flooring.
Fix leaks promptly to prevent mould and potential structural damage.
Keeping shower curtains or doors closed
Keeping the shower area closed after use traps moisture inside, delaying the drying process and creating a humid environment conducive to mould growth.
Mould can easily develop on shower curtains, doors, and in tile grout if they remain wet for too long.
To avoid this, leave the shower door or curtain open after use to improve air circulation and allow the area to dry more quickly.
Storing too many products
Shower caddies and corners filled with bottles and accessories may seem harmless, but they can obstruct airflow and trap moisture and creates hidden, moist niches where mould can grow unnoticed.
Keep shampoo and shower gel bottles to a minimum, and regularly clean and dry the areas underneath them to prevent mould growing.
It’s also important to ensure adequate circulation in the room.
If you are able to, open a window, or use an extractor fan if your bathroom has one.
Following these steps, and using the vinegar solution on a regular basis, will help you keep your bathroom mould free.
