If you spot black mould around windows or patches on the walls and ceilings in your home, addressing it should be your top priority.
Black mould can pose health risks and is linked to respiratory problems, respiratory infections, allergies and asthma. In homes with inadequate ventilation, the relative humidity rises, leading to an accumulation of airborne moisture. This excess moisture eventually causes condensation to form on colder surfaces like windows, corners of rooms and cold walls. Black mould thrives in such moist environments.
It’s crucial to eliminate black mould around windows, but remember that even dead spores can be harmful to health. So, take necessary precautions while cleaning it up. Moulding on window frames is a common occurrence, especially in colder climates where condensation often forms on the window panes, especially during mornings.
When removing mould from windows, prioritise safety to prevent the spreading of mould spores around the house. Wear a dust mask to avoid inhaling dangerous spores and protect yourself from cleaning chemicals. Cover the floor under the window while cleaning to catch any falling mould, which can be disposed of properly later.
Ensure adequate ventilation in the room by opening a window or door, allowing mould spores to escape. For cleaning, create a mixture of one-part bleach to three parts warm water, or consider using a specific mould killer product. Scrub the mould off the windowsill using a non-abrasive brush, frequently dipping it into the cleaning solution. Wipe away the loosened mould with a clean rag. For hard-to-reach areas, such as cracks in uPVC frames, try using a stiff brush or a butter knife to scrape the mould out.
Allow the windowsill to dry completely before closing them, and make sure to wipe off any remaining residue. For a more advanced solution, consider investing in a Karcher Window Vac, which can effectively remove water droplets from the window and help control mould growth.
However, keep in mind that simply washing off the mould with bleach or anti-mould products may offer a short-term solution. To prevent black mould from returning in the long term, follow these nine top tips:
- Improve ventilation in the property to reduce moisture buildup.
- Ensure that the property has a continuous supply of fresh air.
- Fix any leaks or water ingress issues promptly.
- Use dehumidifiers in damp-prone areas, especially during humid periods.
- Keep the property adequately heated, especially in colder months, to prevent condensation.
- Insulate windows and walls to minimise temperature variations and reduce condensation.
- Ventilate the property regularly, especially after activities that produce moisture (e.g., cooking, showering).
6 Ways to Reduce Black Mould Around Windows
Dry Clothes Outside or Use a Tumble Dryer
Drying clothes indoors is a significant cause of excess moisture leading to mould growth. Whenever possible, dry clothes outside or use a tumble dryer. If using an indoor drying rack, keep it in a single room with the door shut and windows open to let the moisture escape outdoors.
Keep Your Home Tidy for Better Airflow
Allowing air to flow freely throughout the property helps to maintain consistent levels of moisture and temperature. Avoid piling up too much stuff in rooms, as this can hinder proper airflow, leading to moisture buildup and increased black mould on windows.
Close Bathroom Doors While Showering
Simple yet effective, keeping bathroom doors closed while showering prevents steam from spreading throughout the house. When steam encounters cooler surfaces like windows, it can condense and lead to black mould issues. Keeping the bathroom well-ventilated helps mitigate this problem.
Increase Fresh Air Circulation
Dilution is the solution! To reduce excess moisture in the air, open windows regularly, preferably on opposite sides of the property to create a flow-through effect. Even uPVC windows can be partially opened and locked, allowing for ventilation without compromising security.
Sleep with Bedroom Windows Open
In bedrooms, condensation on windows is common, especially during the morning. Opening windows at night allows fresh air in and stale air out, reducing condensation. This can also improve sleep quality, as it helps reduce CO2 levels in the room, as suggested by Healthline.
Utilise Your Cooker Hood Extractor
Using the extractor hood above your cooker while cooking will help eliminate steam from the kitchen, preventing it from causing mould problems. Ensure that your cooker hood is an extractor with a proper vent rather than just a filter.
Reducing black mould around windows requires a holistic approach. Addressing moisture issues throughout the entire house is essential. Remember that excess moisture from steam, breathing, clothes drying, and inadequate ventilation can lead to black mould. By tackling these root causes, you can significantly reduce the occurrence of black mould around windows and other areas in your home.