As the weather gets colder, it’s unfortunately the time of year when many of us have to worry about mould. The fungus thrives in damp areas, and it can therefore be a common occurrence year-round in your bathroom as the warm steam from your shower makes condensation appear on windows, mirrors, and other surfaces.
However, during the winter months, mould is also common in other areas of the home. Windowsills are one of the most common places to see the fungus, as the cold air from outside meets the warm air inside and forms condensation on your windows.
If you don’t clear this water, it can dampen the surfaces around your window, such as your windowsill and walls, making it the perfect breeding ground for mould.
Mould is also notoriously difficult to clean. Just washing it away with soapy water won’t kill the fungus, and while it may clear your windowsill for a few days, the problem will return.
But according to cleaning enthusiasts on social media, there is one thing you can do to get rid of mould for good – and all it takes is one common item you probably already have in your kitchen.
In a post on Reddit, one person asked for help clearing mould that had accumulated around their window. They claimed they’ve tried to keep the area as clean as possible, but to no avail.
They said: “I live in a very old countryside house, and for so long now I have had the same problem with mould around the windows. I open the windows every day to get some fresh air. I try to clean around the windows regularly (with hot water and soap), but the mould keeps coming back, so it’s very discouraging. Have you got any tips to get rid of it more permanently?”
One commenter who offered an in-depth solution to clean the mould and keep it at bay said the poster would only need one item – white vinegar. Many of us have white vinegar at home already, but it can be bought for as little as 35p from some supermarkets.
They explained: “The problem is that soap and water just clean the surface; they don’t actually kill the mould. That’s why it keeps coming back. You need to use something that will kill the spores.
“I’d recommend using straight white vinegar. Put it in a spray bottle, spray all the mouldy areas and just let it sit for about an hour. After it’s had time to work, scrub it off with a brush and wipe the area clean.”
How to clean mould
To begin, always make sure you are wearing gloves when dealing with mould, and open windows to ensure you’re working in a well-ventilated area.
1. Make a cleaning solution:
- For non-porous surfaces (tiles, glass, metal): Mix one part household bleach to three parts water, or use undiluted white vinegar.
- For porous surfaces (wood, drywall): Vinegar or baking soda solution is safer, as bleach can damage these materials.
2. Scrub the area:
- Use a stiff brush or sponge to scrub the mould off. Don’t dry brush, as this can release spores into the air.
3. Rinse and dry:
- Wipe the area with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly.
4. Prevent Recurrence:
- Use a dehumidifier or exhaust fan in damp areas.
- Fix leaks promptly.
- Clean and dry water-damaged areas within 24-48 hours.
- Regularly clean bathrooms and kitchens.
