Treating mould in your home

Regular vacuuming, dusting and cleaning in kitchens and bathrooms helps prevent mould. The earlier you find and remove mould, the easier it is to keep it under control. It’s much harder to remove mould once it takes hold.

Never dry brush a mouldy area or item of clothing as this can release spores into the air that spread the mould further and can cause an allergic reaction in some people.

High-priced specialty mould removers can contain chlorines and bleaches, which are hazardous if used improperly. They may also only bleach the mould instead of killing it, which means the problem will keep coming back.

Use a mild detergent like sugar soap and a microfibre cloth to clean mould off walls, floors and tiles. Make sure to dry the area thoroughly after wiping mould off surfaces.

Using white vinegar to kill mould

If cleaning with detergent doesn’t work, it’s possible to remove mould using diluted vinegar and a microfibre cloth.

If mould cannot be removed using the vinegar method, cleaning with diluted bleach or a commercial product may be required. Ensure you protect your skin, eyes and clothes from chemicals, and always make sure there is plenty of fresh air in the area by opening a window and turning on exhaust fans. Follow the directions on the packaging carefully.

If a room needs professional treatment to get rid of mould from walls and carpeting or needs to be repainted, please call your local office. If you live in community housing, contact your housing provider to report severe mould problems.