To help understand why you may be getting mould appearing in your bedroom it is worth explaining first what causes mould to grow.
Mould spores are in the air around us (both inside and out), and they typically grow where liquid water and dampness are present for at least six hours, as this allows the germination of spores. Indoors, these conditions are often caused by condensation, which occurs when warm air comes into contact with a cold surface.
As warm air can hold a lot more water vapour than cold air, when it’s rapidly cooled by contact with a cold surface – for example, a window, mirror, or an outside wall – the vapour becomes water droplets (or what we know as condensation). Modern houses, with their double glazing, loft insulation, and draught excluders, can inadvertently seal humid air inside and increase the chances of condensation developing on cold surfaces.
Where can mould appear in the home?
While mould growth in homes is most commonly associated with rooms where there tends to be a lot of moisture produced such as kitchens and bathrooms, mould growth can arise anywhere within a property where the conditions are right, including bedrooms.
It is estimated that the average person spends around 26 years of their life sleeping, equating to 9,490 days*. And, as many of us will view our bedrooms as a sanctuary where we can relax and recharge, discovering mould growth in this space can be upsetting. Thankfully there are steps we can take to prevent it.
What does mould look like?
A few tell tale signs could signal early mould growth in a bedroom. A build-up of condensation on windows can be an early signal that a room is too humid due to lack of ventilation, whilst walls that feel damp or moist to the touch may also be providing the right conditions for mould spores to grow.
Black speckled marks or grey growths on woodwork, painted walls, ceilings, and wallpaper can indicate mould forming. It is also worth checking window frames, the inside of curtains, blinds, and upholstered surfaces as well as the inside of large pieces of furniture for specks of mould too.
What can I do if mould appears in my bedroom?
The most common reason for mould appearing in a bedroom is excessive humidity, often due to condensation and a lack of ventilation.
Areas with minimal air movement, such as behind furniture or inside wardrobes and drawers, and colder surfaces where moist air can condense such as the bedroom window, are all places where mould may appear. This is particularly true of north facing walls or solid wall properties.
How to prevent and treat mould in the bedroom
Try to ensure as much airflow as possible by opening the window for a few minutes each day and by keeping the trickle vent on the window (if there is one) open. Position large pieces of furniture like wardrobes slightly away from the wall so that air can circulate behind them and open wardrobe and cupboard doors regularly, to increase airflow.
It is also best practice to avoid the use of radiators to dry clothes, as this can release large amounts of water vapour into the bedroom. Dry clothes outside whenever possible, or use a drying rack in a well-ventilated room to help moisture vapour escape and prevent condensation from forming.
Existing mould should be treated by using biocidal products, which are particularly effective because they contain active agents designed to eradicate or inhibit the growth of unwanted organisms. It is important to ventilate and air your bedroom as frequently as possible to allow fresh air to flow through. If you live in a home that is particularly humid or prone to condensation it may be best to also use a dehumidifier as simply opening windows will only go so far.
If your mould problem persists there are several specialist treatments available such as the installation of positive pressure and heat recovery ventilation systems. If problems continue, Peter Cox offers a holistic service where a trained specialist will investigate, identify, and treat your property for the long-term.
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