Unfortunately, dampness is a problem that particularly affects bathrooms, especially those without windows or where the ventilation system doesn’t work properly. Mould is not only a problem related to the aesthetics of the bathroom but it is also a healthcare issue because breathing in a damp environment can badly affect one’s lungs especially if the person is at risk or suffers from specific respiratory diseases. Here are some useful tips on how to remove mould.
How to eliminate mould with vinegar
The market offers a wide range of specific products to eliminate mould from the bathroom. They should be only used where the mould has formed. Some home and natural remedies, however, are also possible for achieving successful results. Among them, for example, is wine vinegar. Just dilute half a liter of vinegar – even the cheapest vinegar you can find in your favorite store is suitable for the purpose - in about one liter of cold water. Then, add a glass of lemon juice. This home-made solution is very effective on fresh mould stains. All you have to do is to lightly rub the area with a cloth soaked in the liquid or with a hard-bristled toothbrush (an old toothbrush is fine). If the mould stains reveal to be more resistant than expected, an additional spoonful of backing soda in the home-made solution is highly recommended. This new ingredient will contribute to remove even the most stubborn mould stains. Usually the mould goes away at the first treatment but, sometimes, more applications of this mixture are required.
How to remove mould with hydrogen peroxide
Another effective home remedy is bleach and hydrogen peroxide. In this case the solution can be obtained by diluting bleach and hydrogen peroxide in a liter of water. Gently rub the mould stain and simultaneously swab the possible excess liquid with a dry cotton cloth to prevent the bleach from damaging the colour of the paint. If mould has stained your shower curtain, it needs to be washed in a washing machine using a common laundry soap with the addition of a teaspoon of backing soda. It is important that no other clothes are washed together in order to avoid contamination. If the seals of the shower enclosure are going mouldy too, a specific cleaning product is highly recommended, but you must to pay attention that it can be used on plastic or rubber otherwise the shower enclosure seals and wheels can be damaged. The most important advice is always to act promptly, before mould spreads freely.
How to prevent mould from forming
Once mould has been eradicated from the bathroom, it is necessary observe some precautions to prevent the problem from reoccurring. First, it is important to be sure that the bathroom has the right ventilation, perhaps with the installation of special extractor fans that can improve the situation. For ceilings and walls, it is always advisable to use specific anti-mould paints for the preservation of a dry environment. In any case, routine operations such as drying the wall tiles after using the washbasin or after having a shower, can stop dampness from seeping under the tiles. Finally, a sealer or similar product such as insulating gel, help to protect areas most at risk and are intended to stop condensation and the formation of mould.