With the muggy weather not going anywhere anytime soon, consumer group CHOICE has released a guide on how to prevent the spread of mould in your home.
"If you've noticed early signs of mould and damp in your home or just want to be extra cautious, there are a few easy things you can do to prevent it spreading or forming in the first place," says CHOICE household expert, Chris Barnes.
Tips on how to prevent mould and damp in your home
1. Good ventilation
"Keeping air flowing through your home will help prevent humidity and minimise moisture and mould growing. Open up your home when it's mild and dry outside to ensure good ventilation," says Barnes.
2. Line dry your clothes
"Line drying your clothes will significantly reduce moisture build-up in your home. Drying your clothes indoors adds to the humidity, and if you use a dryer, it also adds to your electricity costs. Take the opportunity on a sunny day to hang your clothes outside," says Barnes.
3. Keep on top of the cleaning
"Mould needs organic matter to feed on, such as dead skin cells, dust or pet hair. By vacuuming and dusting regularly, you'll minimise mould growth," says Barnes.
4. Use appliances that help prevent and manage damp and mould
Dehumidifiers
"If you have persistent damp problems, then using a dehumidifier in your home can be helpful. They remove moisture from the air, which helps to prevent and minimise mould," says Barnes.
"There are two different types of dehumidifiers, so make sure you buy the one that's right for your situation. Refrigerant dehumidifiers are best for hot, humid conditions, while desiccant dehumidifiers are more suitable for cold, damp conditions."
Air conditioners
"Air conditioners are a good option if you live in a hot climate, as they dry and cool the air at the same time. Many air conditioners have specific dehumidify or 'dry' modes, so if you already have one, check your manual before purchasing a dehumidifier," says Barnes.
Ceiling fans and pedestal fans
"Ceiling fans can help to keep the mould at bay by circulating air in your home. They're also inexpensive to run, averaging between $17 to $35 a year depending on if it's an alternating or direct current ceiling fan," says Barnes.
"Pedestal fans are handy if you want to target a specific area that needs ventilation. They're very cheap to run - most pedestal fans could be run 24/7 all summer for only about $30 in electricity costs."
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