Why you should NEVER use bleach alone to combat mold this winter - The Sun

As we move into the colder seasons, homes often become a trap for moisture, mold and condensation.

This is mainly due to poor ventilation, especially for those who are trying to reduce their energy costs by not using heating.

Experts have revealed a fantastic cleaning tip for removing mold. Photo credit: Getty

And it can be difficult to control, especially given rising energy bills and the cost of living crisis .

But the bathroom is a place where mold and moisture are very difficult to control.

The bathroom is a paradise for mold because there is often high humidity there.

And activities like showering and bathing produce steam that can condense on surfaces like walls, ceilings, and tiles.

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However, the bathroom experts at Nuie have shared some clever tips for removing mold in the bathroom, some of which may surprise you.

Sales manager Colm Lalor says: "Keeping grout lines clean can be a constant battle, and tiles are prone to mold formation, which can quickly make your bathroom walls or floor unsightly.

"The easiest way to remove mold is to dip an old toothbrush in a solution of one part bleach to four parts water, then use a little elbow grease to scrub the mold away and rinse it with water."

"Be careful not to rub too hard or you could damage the grout.

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"To remove mold from walls and non-tiled surfaces, use the same solution and gently rub with a damp cloth until the mold is gone. Then dry the area thoroughly with a soft, dry cloth.

"We recommend not using bleach on brass utensils and only using it on appliances like toilets."

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We have already revealed further tips against mold in the house.

Drench 's Nancy Emery explained that those who want to combat mold without turning on the heat start by opening the windows.

Nancy explains, "It may seem counterproductive to open windows in cold or wet weather , but it is important to stop mold growth."

"Opening windows several times a day, especially after showering, bathing or cooking , is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to help moisture escape.

The cleaning tip is elbow grease, an old toothbrush, and one part bleach to four parts water. Photo credit: Getty

"Mold thrives in warm, moist environments.

"This is why it is particularly important to increase ventilation in the colder months, when staying indoors can cause heat to build up in our central heating, our bodies and our breathing."

Common bathroom habits that promote mold

Plumbworld, a leading bathroom and kitchen products expert, has shared the daily habits that increase the risk of mold growth in homes.

Leave wet towels and bathmats on the floor.

Wet towels and bath mats on the floor after showering or bathing can increase humidity and provide an ideal breeding ground for mold spores.

To avoid this, hang towels and bathmats in a place where they can dry quickly and wash them regularly.

Do not turn on the fan

To reduce humidity in the bathroom, an exhaust fan is essential.

When you shower or bathe in hot water, the steam increases the humidity in the room, creating an ideal environment for mold to form on walls, ceilings, and other surfaces.

An exhaust fan helps move moist air outside, significantly reducing the risk of mold growth.

Experts recommend running the fan while showering and for at least 20 to 30 minutes afterward to reduce humidity.

Ignore small leaks

Even minor leaks in the sink, toilet, or shower can lead to increased humidity in the bathroom, creating an environment conducive to mold growth.

Over time, these leaks can cause significant water damage and promote mold growth in less visible areas such as interior walls or under floor coverings.

Repair leaks quickly to prevent mold and possible structural damage.

Keep shower curtains or doors closed.

Keeping the shower area closed after use traps moisture inside, slowing the drying process and creating a humid environment that encourages mold growth.

Mold can easily form on shower curtains, doors and tile joints if they remain wet for too long.

To avoid this, leave the shower door or shower curtain open after use to improve air circulation and allow the area to dry faster.

Storing too many products

Shower screens and corners filled with bottles and supplies may seem harmless, but they can restrict air circulation, trap moisture and create hidden, damp pockets where mold can grow unnoticed.

Keep the amount of shampoo and shower gel bottles to a minimum and clean and dry the areas underneath regularly to prevent mold growth.

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