As the nights draw in and the chill sets in, you might start spotting the unmistakable signs of mould creeping into your home.
Mould, which flourishes in damp settings, often takes hold in autumn when people begin drying their laundry indoors due to the cold, leading to increased condensation. With the drop in temperature outside, the idea of opening a window for ventilation becomes less inviting, reports Leicestershire Live.
A frequent target for mould is your sofa and other soft furnishings. Monika Puccio, Buying Expert at Sofa Club, has offered her advice on how to tackle and prevent mould from taking over your home decor, revealing her two ‘miracle’ products.
“Mould thrives in environments with excess moisture, which is why it often becomes more noticeable during the colder months,” Monika explained. “As warm, moist air meets cooler surfaces like walls or mirrors, condensation forms, providing the perfect conditions for mould to grow.
“Due to their fabric being able to absorb moisture easily, mould can also infiltrate soft furnishings like sofas, especially if they’re exposed to damp conditions over extended periods or placed against surfaces already affected by mould.”
Monika has shared her top tips for tackling mould on your sofa, suggesting the use of white vinegar and baking soda, two staples you might already have in your kitchen. These items are easily found at supermarkets or discount stores such as B&M, The Range, and Home Bargains if you need to stock up.
Detailing her preferred approach, Monika explained: “For mould removal on a sofa, start by mixing one teaspoon of baking soda with two cups of water in a spray bottle. Apply the mixture to the affected area and gently scrub with a soft-bristle brush to lift the mould.”
She continued: “After rinsing with warm water, follow up by spraying the area with white vinegar, which acts as a natural disinfectant to kill the mould.”
She recommends carrying out this process during daylight hours to ensure the sofa dries properly.
To keep mould at bay after cleaning, Monika suggests leaving space between your sofa and the wall to promote air circulation. If it’s necessary to place your sofa against a wall, she advises choosing an interior wall over an exterior one to avoid the colder surfaces that can lead to condensation.
The expert also highlighted the importance of dealing with dampness: “As mould thrives in damp environments, ensuring any spillages are immediately cleaned up and the area has allowed to dry thoroughly will reduce the chances of regrowth.”
She highlighted the advantages of using a dehumidifier, particularly for those who air-dry their laundry indoors: “It helps to reduce moisture levels in the room, making it less likely for mould to reappear.”
She further noted the health benefits, stating: “Beyond mould prevention, dehumidifiers also work to improve air quality by reducing dust and allergens, which can benefit your health, especially those who suffer from allergies.”