Supermarket shoppers are keen to get their hands on a budget-friendly plant which is ideal for preventing mould – especially throughout winter. Mould is a major concern for many people, especially as the temperatures drop while rain becomes more prevalent.
Mould in a home is an unpleasant and prolific issue typically caused by condensation, high humidity and leaks. It’s often spotted in kitchens and bathrooms, where daily activities such as cooking and bathing can lead to condensation.
Other causes of mould can stem from blocked gutters, leaking pipes and issues with the roof of a property. Preventing mould can feel like a battle, with insulation and ventilation imperative for keeping it at bay – but some people are resorting to nature for a helping hand.
Chris Bonnett of Gardening Express explained: “Mould in the home is caused by excess humidity. Warm rooms, like bathrooms and kitchens are at particular risk.
“Using plants to help keep mould at bay is a practical and natural way to control humidity and moisture in your home.”
Trusty aloe vera is known and loved for its healing qualities. Its gel is a regular ingredient added to soothing gels, after-sun lotions, moisturisers and much more, but the plant is also quite the multitasker as it’s effective at preventing mould due to its ability to absorb moisture and reduce humidity.
It’s best placed in areas of the home where this is most likely to be a concern – such as on bathroom windowsills or in the kitchen – and could be beneficial in keeping these areas free from the spread of mould.
Many supermarkets stock a range of aloe vera plants, while online retailer Amazon boasts a variety of sizes to choose from. DIY favourite B&Q is also home to a selection of aloe vera plants, with one costing just £14.99.
Lots of people use aloe vera and other plants to help keep their homes dryer and fresher, often sharing their experiences on social media.
On Reddit, one person said: “I put a snake plant in the bathroom and have had to empty the damp traps in there much much much less. So that seems to be working for me.”
Someone else commented: “I used to use succulents for this, and just never watered them. I do not know if it works, because I have nothing to compare it to, but I had to figure it didn’t do any harm, and if you burn yourself as often as I do, a growing aloe vera is a must.”
Offering a different perspective though, another person shared: “We had really, really bad condensation and mould in our house and were at our wits end. Like it was keeping me awake with stress.
“Visible mould creeping along the walls and ceilings, mould growing all over the wooden doors. I would clean and clean and clean with vinegar spray but it kept coming back. I trusted my instincts and got a ventilation company round and they fitted a centralised ventilation system. The problem is 100% fixed. It’s crazy. It worked AMAZINGLY. Highly recommend.”