MOULD is a common problem in homes across Scotland – especially during the winter months.
This is because dampness and condensation happen mainly during the colder months and can create the perfect environment for it to grow.
Mould is a common problem in homes during the winter[/caption]
Mould spores thrive on moisture, which is why it often grows in colder months[/caption]
Condensation on windows occurs when warm, moist air comes into contact with cold surfaces.
This could then drip onto surfaces and cause mould to form – and this can be dangerous to our health if left untreated as well as being hard to get rid of.
And with no sign of sunshine returning anytime soon, people have already started looking for ways to keep their homes safe.
And in a bid to help homeowners, one expert has revealed how you can get rid of mould without having to splurge on expensive chemicals.
Not only can mould-removing chemicals be expensive, but they can also be harsh on our beloved surfaces.
Luckily, there is a much simpler and more affordable solution hiding in your cupboard.
While you may never considered using it to combat mould, it can be an easy and chemical-free way to remove it from your home
Scott Evans
According to Scott Evans from Pink Storage, one of the most effective ways to combat mould is by usuing salt.
Salt, which can be picked up for just 65p in supermarkets like Asda, helps suck out moisture and breaks down mould spores whilst also creating a protective barrier.
Scott says: “Mould thrives in damp environments and salt is a natural moisture absorbant.
“While you may never considered using salt to combat mould, it can be an easy and chemical-free way to remove it from your home.”
It works through a process called osmosis, which removes water from the mould in your home which, in turn, stops it from growing.
Salt also has mild antimicrobial properties which can stop mould from regrowing and create a protective barrier to keep it away for good.
Scott adds: “Many people store belongings in damp areas like basements or garages without realising they are storing their items where mould can grow.
“To remove the moisture from the air you can place dishes of salt around these spaces so that it doesn’t develop in the first place.
“If you already have dampness and mould you can still use salt to stop mould in its tracks.”
To remove mould from any room in the home, all you need to do is follow three simple steps.
First, remove any excess moisture from your walls or surfaces using a dry cloth.
Then just sprinkle a generous layer of table salt over the mould and let it sit overnight.
Banishing mould from clothes
MOULD doesn’t just grow on your walls and surfaces – it can easily spread to your clothes as well.
It can grow and stick to fabrics that are left damp for extended periods – for example, clothes left on an airer – as this creates the perfect environment for mould spores to grow.
But before you go throwing out your beloved outfits if it does get into your clothes, there is a way to save them.
One laundry expert has revealed that there is an unexpected 54p item in your home that could banish it from your clothes.
Deyan Dimitrov, CEO of Laundryheap, shared their handy ‘paste hack’ that can rid of mould in just 30 minutes.
And all you need is some water and a few Aspirin tablets.
All you need to do is take five tablets, crush them up, and then mix this with water to create a paste.
You can then spread this paste over the mould spots on the fabric and leave it sitting for half an hour before popping it into your normal wash.
The salt will quickly get to work in removing the moisture from the mould and will begin to break it down.
Finally, scrub and clean away the mould with a damp cloth or brush in the morning.
Scott says: “For tougher mould patches, you can make a salt paste by mixing a little water and salt and applying it to the affected area.
“Let this paste dry and follow the same steps above to remove the mould from your walls or surfaces.
“If you find that your surfaces are developing mould you can mix two tablespoons of salt with warm water and wipe down your walls, windowsills and any other affected area.
“This creates a thin protective layer that discourages mould spores from settling.”
