Throughout history, preventing mould growth has been a common challenge for homeowners. You’re not alone in dealing with this issue. The Steam ‘n’ Dry Flood Restoration Service team recognises that homeowners understand the potential risk of mould problems but often lack effective strategies to prevent mould growth. We want to assure you that we follow Environmental and Indoor Health standards and Safety and Prevention Guidelines to tackle and avoid mould growth effectively.
Here are some ways we recommend caring for your Auckland tiled spaces to prevent mould growth from overtaking their surfaces.
Mould can grow without needing sunlight, unlike many other plants, which is why it is often found in dark areas. But there are three essential elements required for the production and spread of mould:
Where all three of these materials are present, you can surely experience mould growth. So, the best way to reduce mould spreading is to cut off one or all of these sources.
Rooms that experience excessive moisture should be adequately ventilated. This can be done through a vent or by opening a window. The most crucial room to circulate is the bathroom.
Bathrooms can become exceptionally humid due to the steam produced by hot water during showers. The high humidity levels in bathrooms contribute to mould development, growth, and spread. Ensure you run the bathroom vent during your storm and leave it on for up to twenty minutes after showering.
If you are lucky enough to have a window in your bathroom, consider cracking it open during your shower to allow steam and water vapour to escape. Homes that lack sufficient air movement provide the perfect conditions for mould development, another reason why cracking a window can keep your bathroom (or any room) mould-free.
This tip is designed to help keep mould out of your bathroom shower. After your shower, use a squeegee to remove excess water by running it from the top. If you have glass shower doors, use the squeegee on the glass.
It’s common to delay cleaning up spills, but doing so is one of the most effective ways to protect your tile and grout from mould growth.
Moisture, grease, food particles, and other organic materials on your floor can seep into your tiled surfaces if it’s left neglected. Cleaning up spills right after they happen prevents these factors from allowing mould to develop, keeping your tiles cleaner and mould-free.
If your home has a pool, dry the tiled areas after your family and guests have finished their pool activities. This extra step helps maintain a mould-free environment.
The fibres in cloth materials are the organic substances that mould thrives on. You’ve probably noticed that when clothes and towels remain damp, they tend to develop a musty smell. This happens because they create ideal conditions for mould and mildew to grow.
When casually throwing wet clothes on the floor, you give mould a path from fabric to your tile surfaces, to prevent this make a habit of hanging your towels correctly to air dry after a shower, making sure they don’t touch the floor to prevent mould buildup. It’s equally important to avoid leaving wet clothes, fabrics, or blankets on your bedroom or laundry room tiles. Instead, place them in a basket and let them dry before storing them, if possible.
Additionally, it’s easy to overlook wet material sources, such as area rugs. Entryway rugs, shower mats, and kitchen mats can get damp from spilt water, children not thoroughly drying off, or rainwater brought indoors. Regularly inspect your rugs to avoid leaving wet carpets on the floor, as this can promote mould growth.
Mould, like any living organism, requires sustenance. Thus, water isn’t the sole contributor to mould growth. Soap scum also serves as its nourishment. Prevent soap scum buildup in your bathroom by removing, drying, and storing your soaps and creams away from the shower area.
Be sure to wipe away any soap residue on the wall or floor tiles.
Regularly cleaning your floors is vital in preventing mould growth. You should establish a cleaning routine that includes daily, weekly deep cleaning and annual professional services to protect your grout and tile surfaces.
In your daily cleaning, focus on removing soap scum, grease, dirt, water, and food residue from the tile. When performing weekly cleanings, use an effective cleaning agent to thoroughly scrub your grout and tile, eliminating any lingering bacteria and ensuring a deep clean.
For top-notch maintenance and to keep mould at bay, consider hiring a professional tile cleaning company for an annual cleaning.
To safeguard your bathroom tile and grout against water and soap residue infiltration, it’s advisable to opt for professional sealing. Sealing forms a protective barrier on the tile surface, effectively hindering mould growth by preventing the accumulation of moisture and the essential organic materials it needs. In an environment without these crucial elements, mould cannot flourish.
Protect your home from mould growth by following these tips. When you’re ready for professional help to avoid mould issues, our Steam ‘n’ Dry Flood Restoration Auckland Service team will assist with your grout and tile needs. Contact us for a free estimate.
To keep your home free from mould, follow these steps. If you encounter a severe mould problem, you can rely on Steam ‘n’ Dry’s Premium Truck-Mounted Steam Cleaning Equipment, a flagship service. Serving South Auckland, North Shore, West Auckland, and City Central areas since 1987, Steam ‘n’ Dry Flood Restoration Auckland Services specialises in flood cleaning and carpet drying. Reach out to us at 0800 783-266 for assistance.
Updated Last: 18 July 2024 By Graeme Stephens.
Copyright © 2000 Flood Auckland. All rights reserved