Effective Strategies to Combat Mildew and Mould in Your Home

Distinguishing between mildew and mould is crucial for effective treatment. Mildew typically appears as white or grey powdery dots, while mould exhibits darker shades like red, green, or black and may have a fuzzy texture. Although mildew is generally less hazardous, both fungi can pose health risks and cause damage to your property. If you suspect mildew to be the culprit, refer to our specialised tips below.

Tips to Eliminate Mildew:

1. Prioritise Safety: Before beginning the cleaning process, ensure your safety by wearing protective eyewear, gloves, and, if necessary, a mask. Adequate ventilation is crucial, so open windows and turn on bathroom fans to promote air circulation.

2. Utilise Mould Remover or Grout Cleaner: Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer and apply an appropriate mould remover or grout cleaner to the affected areas. These products are specifically designed to combat mildew and mould.

3. Allow Time for Action: In some cases, a simple spray of mould remover may be sufficient to eliminate mildew. Surprisingly, in a Good Housekeeping Survey, Clorox Tilex Mould and Mildew Remover spray effectively banished stains in just a few minutes. This remarkable product can eliminate 99.9% of mould and bacteria from non-porous tile within five minutes. However, if spots persist, proceed to the next step.

4. Gentle Scrubbing: Use a non-scratch scrub sponge or grout brush to gently scrub the remaining mildew spots. Ensure thorough coverage of the affected areas while being cautious not to damage the surface.

5. Rinse and Dry: After scrubbing, thoroughly rinse the area with hot water. Wipe dry or leave it to air dry, ensuring proper ventilation by keeping the shower curtain or door open. This step allows any residual steam and moisture to escape, minimising the chances of mildew recurrence.

Removing Mould from Walls and Ceilings:

1. Surface Cleaning: Prepare a solution by mixing a small amount of dish detergent, such as Dawn Ultra Dishwashing Liquid, with water. Apply the solution using a sponge or brush, using gentle circular motions to clean the affected areas.

2. Rinse and Dry: Thoroughly clean the sponge, then dip it into clean water, wring out excess moisture, and use it to rinse the surface. Allow the area to air dry completely before proceeding to the next step.

3. Applying a Water-Bleach Solution: To tackle stubborn mould stains, mix ¾ cup of chlorine bleach with a gallon of warm water. For smaller spots, use a mixture of 3 tablespoons of bleach in 1 quart of water. Wearing rubber gloves, apply the water-bleach solution to the mould-infested areas using a sponge or cleaning brush.

4. Let it Sit and Scrub: Allow the water-bleach solution to sit for approximately five minutes, giving it time to penetrate the mould spots. Afterward, gently scrub the area using small circular motions to effectively suppress the mould growth.

5. Thorough Rinse and Air Drying: Clean the area with warm water, ensuring that all traces of the cleaning solution are removed. Use a clean cloth to blot the surface dry and allow it to air dry completely, promoting optimal ventilation.

By following these effective strategies from Clean My Place, you can successfully combat mildew and mould in your home.