Mould Cleaning
What you need to know before you start cleaning.
Whether it’s on bathroom ceilings, in dark bedroom corners or in a brand new apartment, mould can be a tricky issue to deal with. You can reduce your risk of mould-related health problems by removing mould safely and taking action to stop or minimise mould growth.
The majority of mould (a form of fungi) affecting collections are conidial fungi. This type of fungi is a threat especially in damp parts of buildings and in geographic areas with seasonal periods of high humidity.
• Moulds excrete enzymes that allow them to digest organic material, altering and weakening materials.
• Many fungi contain coloured substances, such as melanin, which can stain paper, cloth or leather.
• Spores (correctly called conidia) active or dormant are always present. Germinating conidia develop into hyphae. Hyphae are thread-like multi-cellular structures growing out of the spore. At their tip, they secrete enzymes into the material and absorb the soluble products as food and thus grow. These enzymes eat into organic material, altering and weakening material.
• Although good housekeeping and proper ventilation help, it is not possible to create an atmosphere free of these organisms.
Mould: The next asbestos
“You can’t always see or even smell it, however, it affects almost 1 in 3 Australian homes and can have serious consequences on the lives of those who can’t antibodies against it. Sometimes you can see mould when it discolours walls, ceilings and other surfaces. If you can’t see it you might be able to detect a musty, unpleasant odour instead. Some are referring this invisible pest as the next asbestos.
Our modern airconditioned homes have become compromised with efficient but passive ventilation. This has resulted in a considerable increase in the number of issues with condensation issues. We have also gone from using natural building materials timbers that naturally contain mould repellents to fungal attack to particle board that has become the perfect place for mould. These two factors come together to create a paradise for mould creation.
The cause of mould is moisture
Fungal spores need food and moisture to grow and because microbes are everywhere on this planet from the Arctic to Antarctica and most building materials and furnishings in our homes are the perfect places for mould – the solution to addressing any mould problem is to find the source of your moisture. Once moisture sits on a surface for more than 72 hours, bacteria and fungi begin to have a field day.
Mould Cleaning
Abrasively cleaning mould from a surface, such as with a dry brush, is not recommended. This could release spores into the air, which may cause adverse health affects and spread mould to other areas.
There are many effective products for killing and removing mould from walls, floors and other hard surfaces. Household cleaning agents or detergents can do an effective job if used correctly, as can white fermented vinegar cleaning solution.
Bleach Is A Big No No!
The next time you think about using bleach on the mould at home, or contemplate simply ‘painting over’ the problem, we strongly urge you to think again. Neither of these methods addresses the serious health concerns that mould in living environments presents. Prevention is ultimately the key to solving your mould issues.
Items that can be washed, such as stuffed toys and linen, should be washed as usual. If in doubt, take them to a professional cleaner. Otherwise discard the items as advised by your local council.
Non-porous items such as glass-ware and some plastics can be washed in hot water with a bleach solution or with a good quality disinfectant and air dried. If using a dishwasher, clean and disinfect it first. Do the wash using a full cycle and hot water.
Air conditioning and other ventilation units are a good environment for moulds and other bacteria to grow. Using the unit without cleaning it properly first can cause mould spores to become airborne and be inhaled or spread to other areas. It’s recommended that you have air conditioners and ventilation units serviced by a qualified technician.
Prevent mould growth
Reducing the amount of moisture in the home or office is the best way to control mould growth. While you can’t control factors like rain, you can repair other sources, like leaky plumbing, roofs and other fixtures, as soon as possible.
If you’re repainting walls or other hard surfaces you can add an anti-mould solution to the paint to help slow down mould growth. Ask your painter or hardware supplier for details.
Plants growing on or close to external walls can hold in moisture and promote mould growth. Make sure your walls and weep holes are clear of plants and soil.