Prevent mould with seven easy ways from home experts – including the correct dehumidifier for cold rooms

SAVVY home gurus have listed seven simple ways you can prevent mould, plus how to choose the correct dehumidifier.

For many households, the arrival of winter and cold weather also often comes with condensation, as well as mould - and according to experts, the problem is huge.

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Research by Homebrite found that an astronomical 58 per cent of privately rented households in the UK are struggling with damp, mould and/or excessive cold - this is a staggering 2.7 million homes.

But as well as devaluing your property, the widespread fungi can affect also cause a number of health-related issues, such as sneezing, a runny nose, red eyes and skin rash.

The NHS warned that those particularly vulnerable are people with respiratory problems, respiratory infections, allergies or asthma, plus babies and the elderly.

Luckily, now a group of experts from Which? has come to rescue with their top seven ways to tackle the common problem, sharing the knowledge on TikTok.

Open windows or vents

According to the pros, you shouldn't just ignore the problem - if you spot any condensation, open windows straight away.

This, they explained in the video, will ''let the moisture escape''.

Dry the bathroom

One of the most common places that's affected by moisture and mould is, of course, the bathroom.

To prevent any nasty bacteria, it's advised to simply wipe the wet tiles and bath, or your shower, with a dry cloth that will absorb any moisture that otherwise gets trapped.

Drying laundry inside

Those without a tumble dryer will know what a nightmare it is to dry your laundry during winter, especially now that doing it out in the garden is no longer an option.

If, like many cleaning fans, you hang your washing to dry indoors, the pros at Which? recommended to always do it by an open window.

Cooking? Here's what to do in the kitchen

Meanwhile, when cooking a hearty dinner for your family or trying out the latest recipes, it's advised to best put a lid on the pans - or, where possible, switch the extractor on to banish the excess moisture.

''If not, open the window.''

Invest in a dehumidifier

Although dehumidifiers won't get rid of nasty mould, these appliances can definitely help to prevent it by drawing in any moisture in the air.

Whether you're after a budget-friendly version or a more pricey one, the market is full of them - however, if you want a dehumidifier for a warmer room, the experts recommended something called a refrigerant or a compressor dehumidifier.

''You just need to place it in the centre of your home and keep internal doors open.''

They went on: ''If you want a dehumidifier for a colder space, like a garage, you need the desiccant type which doesn't require warm air.''

Regulate the temperature

It's also recommended to avoid sudden rises and falls in air temperature.

This is because it can increase condensation, the experts warned followers on their page.

''Keeping your heating low and constant will help.''

Draught excluders

Last but certainly not least, the experts urged to snap up draught excluders.

These winter essentials are available at most home goods stores, including Dunelm, Screwfix, as well as Amazon.