Home expert shares 4 mistakes that could be increasing the chance of mould growing – including common dehumidifier error

ONE way to combat excessive moisture is by switching on a dehumidifier. 

But according to Matthew Jenkins, a heating expert at MyJobQuote, households up and down the country are using the nifty gadget incorrectly. 

2

2

He explained how “placing the dehumidifier in the wrong location too far away from the source of moisture - such as a bathroom - hinders the dehumidifier from removing moisture from the air, allowing mould-friendly conditions to persist”. 

To add to this, anyone who owns a dehumidifier should clean it regularly otherwise “mould [could] grow inside it”. 

The expert said: “Dust, dirt and damp can build up in the dehumidifier's tank, making a cosy spot for mould spores to live."

Most dehumidifiers have an automatic switch off after a couple of hours, but if you keep it running for longer, “without checking it”, the “air can get too dry”. 

Matthew said: “It sounds weird, but super dry air can make stuff like wood shrink or crack, and then mould can sneak into the little cracks and start to spread."

Alongside dehumidifiers, Matthew shared four other common household mistakes that could increase the likelihood of mould growing. 

Having long showers 

Not only does a lengthy shower increase your water bill, but it increases the moisture in the air, “on bathroom walls, ceilings and tiles”, thus increasing the chance of mould growing. 

If you really want a steamy shower, open a window, leave the bathroom door open if you feel comfortable enough and ensure you have a good ventilation fan. 

After showering, squeegee the tiles, or mop up any excess water with an old towel. 

Leaving wet towels lying around 

After showering, make sure you put your towel in a suitable location. 

Matthew explained: “Mould loves it when towels are dumped in a pile because there's no air moving around, it's damp, and parts of the towel are dark when they're all scrunched up. 

“That's just what black mould needs to start growing."

Instead, hang towels on rails, or on an airer to ensure they dry correctly. 

Leaving laundry in the washing machine 

If your clothes come out of the washing machine smelling damp and musty, it might because mould has started to grow. 

Matthew said: “Leaving wet laundry in the machine for a long time can create a damp environment perfect for mould growth in your washing machine and therefore, on your clothes.

“Mould can also grow inside in the washing machine when not in use - the washing machine is usually a damp place and even after use, it's best practice to leave the door open."

Having a messy, unorganised house 

Keeping your house clean and tidy makes spotting early signs of mould easy, Matthew explained. 

And this is especially true for areas like the kitchen and bathroom which can become damp. 

The expert added: "Whether your mess is piles of clothes, too many empty bathroom products that you need to throw away, or just unused items laying around - these all create pockets of still air where moisture can build up, helping mould to grow.

"Regular tidying up and organising can improve airflow and therefore, reduce mould spores," the Daily Star reported.