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Newlon Housing Trust

Everyday tips

Everyday things you can do to help prevent damp and mould

Damp and mould can occur in homes for a number of different reasons. We will always carefully investigate the cause whenever it is reported to us and aim to provide lasting solutions to stop damp and mould reoccurring.

There are some everyday things everyone can do to help keep their home healthy and reduce the risk of damp and mould.

Reduce moisture in your home where possible

Open your windows
Keep your home well ventilated. Mould likes damp and warm places, so open your windows regularly (ideally for 10-15 minutes everyday) to let out moist air and let fresh dry air in. This will allow dry air from outside to enter your home which will mix with the wet air to balance the overall moisture in your property. Regular dusting and vacuuming can also help prevent mould. 

Keep your bathroom dry
A common cause of mould is condensation or moisture on surfaces in your home. This occurs most often in bathrooms. To reduce this wipe condensation or water droplets from walls, tiles, shower screens and windows. It’s a good idea to store any toiletries you don’t use often in a cupboard. Having too many bottles around sink and bath can make it harder wipe down wet areas following use.

Stop moisture spreading
To stop moisture from spreading when you are cooking or bathing, keep the doors to the bathroom and kitchen closed. When cooking, make sure you put lids on your pans to stop moisture escaping. Also make use of any extractor fans in your home (see the benefits of using extractor fans below).

Prevent rooms from getting too cold
Very cold rooms can provide ideal conditions for mould to grow, so it is recommended you don’t let the temperature in any part of your home fall below 14°C.

Try not to dry clothes on radiators
Drying clothes on radiators increases the moisture that they release and can create damp spots in your home. A good alternative is to dry them outside if possible or to hang them on a clothes airer and place them in a well-ventilated room with any doors to the rest of your home closed. If you are using a tumble dryer, please ensure that it is properly ventilated to the outside of the house.

Avoid placing furniture close to walls
Mould can grow in enclosed spaces where air cannot circulate, so avoid leaning large items of furniture or storing lots of items against walls, with no space for air to move.

Benefits of using an extractor fan

Newlon understands the concerns about the cost of energy use during the current cost of living crisis. However, research by our specialist energy use and damp and mould consultants has shown that extractor fans are very economical to use. Running costs are estimated to be no more than £6 a year for extensive daily use of a standard extractor fan, even if electricity prices were to rise to 60 pence per kilowatt hour.

Ventilation
Ventilation is crucial for maintaining a healthy indoor environment. Extractor fans help remove stagnant air, ensuring a continuous exchange with fresh outdoor air. This is vital in spaces with limited natural airflow, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and utility rooms.

Moisture control 
Extractor fans play a key role in moisture control by expelling humid air from spaces prone to moisture build up. In bathrooms, showers and baths release steam, and in kitchens, cooking activities generate moisture. If left uncontrolled, this moisture can lead to mould growth, deteriorate building materials, and compromise indoor air quality.

Temperature regulation
Extractor fans contribute to temperature regulation by expelling warm air from enclosed spaces. This is particularly beneficial in areas where heat-generating activities take place, preventing overheating and enhancing overall comfort.

Air quality improvement
Airborne pollutants and allergens can negatively impact indoor air quality. Extractor fans help remove these particles, contributing to a healthier environment. This is especially important in homes with individuals who have respiratory conditions or allergies.

Preventing condensation
In cold climates, warm indoor air meeting cold surfaces can lead to condensation. Extractor fans help mitigate this issue by removing moist air, reducing the likelihood of condensation on windows and walls. This is crucial for preventing mould growth and avoiding potential damage to the building structure.