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Years ago before I brought my home, I lived in an old semidetached housing trust house, or housing commission for some states, that was had terrible issues with mould. Being asthmatic, it caused several problems for me and my children, who I might add did not 
have any health issues what-so-ever.
Moulds can create and exaggerate health issues and turn minor problems into serious ones and including issues with lungs, skin, and eyes and also can make you feel lethargic, sick and headaches [1].I had attempted to combat the mould problem by regular cleaning and using exhaust fans in the shower and anything else I could of.
When handling any types of mould and especially if you are sensitive to it, you should wear disposable rubber gloves and a mask, better still ask someone to do if for you if you can [1]. Immediately wash surfaces any clothing that has been in contact or has mould on it with hot soapy water and then allow to dry thoroughly.
Do not use chemicals as research has shown that this may leave ‘…hazardous residues on the treated material’ [2].
Moulds
Moulds need moisture to grow and they thrive in humid conditions. It can grow on walls, wood, carpet and furnishings and produce an offensive odour. It causes sneezing and asthma attacks as well as other respiratory illnesses [1].
What to do when you noticed mouldy items [2]. ·
When first noticing mould the following methods are suggested: ·
If possible and if dry remove all mouldy articles to a dry place
Contain dry mouldy clothing in a sealed plastic bag until you are able to treat them.
If articles are ‘damp or wet’ remove them to a well ventilated area until dry.
Wash areas with hot soapy water or bleach and water
How to control it from happening
This can be extremely difficult. I lived in a house that was always damp therefore the mould thrived.
Try to keep your home dry
Do not store books or paper against an outside wall or on the floor and inspect the area regularly.
Ensure that air can circulate between the walls and cupboards to allow moisture to evaporate
Do over stock/pack your shelves.
Keep areas dust free so as the limit ‘mould growth’.
Open windows and doors for fresh air and ventilation
Install exhaust fans in wet areas and kitchens
Household Maintenance [1].
It is also important to maintain your home as weak areas around the home can encourage mould such as:
Poor plumbing (leaky taps and pipes)
Poorly sealed doors and windows
Bathroom and toilet leaks
Crumbling walls
Floor boards which are bowing
Wet stains on the ceiling
Lifting tiles Preventing the growth of mould is not easy and either is getting rid of it. These few hints may help with providing some relief and more importantly, preventing health issues for your family.
1. State Library 2006
2. The Home Owners Guide to Fighting Mould
(February 2007) (
