White vinegar can tackle mould on walls by killing spores at the root, according to paint expert Lucy Steele. The natural kitchen ingredient offers an effective alternative to harsh chemical sprays.
Property owners have consistently relied on chemical sprays to combat mould on walls, despite their harsh odours and potential health risks.
These strong-smelling cleaners may provide a quick fix, but they often merely bleach the surface – and before long the mould reappears yet again. However, there’s a natural ingredient you can use and it’s more efficient without the toxic fumes and could save you money as well.
I’ve tried it and not only does it eradicate the visible mould, but it also helps prevent regrowth – without needing to use bleach.
Lucy Steele, paint and interiors specialist at Valspar Paint, said: “There are three different types of damp. Condensation is unavoidable and happens when hot air hits a cold surface,” she explained.
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“It’s most common in kitchens and bathrooms after cooking or showering, but it can also appear on windows after the heating has been on, for example. If condensation is left to sit on surfaces for too long, it will cause damp and mould.”
She continued: “If it’s something you can tackle at home, try using white vinegar for areas of mould found on porous surfaces.
“This trick is especially useful if the damp has extended below the surface. The vinegar will penetrate to kill the mould and mildew at the root, preventing it from regrowing.”
For those contemplating painting over the mould, Lucy warns it should never be tackled with standard paint. “When painting over a damp patch, you should always use a specialist paint. Paints designed for damp often have properties that treat the problem as well and stop it from coming back,” she explained.
“They also let moisture escape meaning there won’t be a build-up of damp. So if you’ve fixed the root cause, using a specially formulated damp paint should put a stop to the problem for good.”
When it comes to preventing damp and mould in the future, the expert suggests addressing any leaks or controlling condensation in your home, which is “key to preventing black mould from growing.”
She continued: “Keep problem areas like bathrooms, kitchens, or laundry rooms heated, as this will help to reduce the chances of mould growth simply because mould has an ideal temperature and moisture range in which to live and thrive.”
What you’ll need:
White distilled vinegar (5% acidity or higher).
Spray bottle.
Soft brush or sponge.
Clean cloth or towel.
Protective gloves.
Method.
Use neat white vinegar but don’t dilute it with water, as this can reduce its mould-killing effectiveness. Pour it directly into a clean spray bottle.
Spray the vinegar straight onto the mouldy areas of the wall. For porous surfaces, ensure it penetrates into any small cracks or textures.
Let the vinegar sit on the wall for a minimum of one hour. After soaking, utilise a soft brush or sponge to scrub off any remaining mould.
Steer clear of using anything overly abrasive, especially on painted walls.
Wipe down the area with a clean, damp cloth to eliminate residue, then thoroughly dry the surface. Ensuring the surface is completely dry aids in preventing the mould from reappearing.
If you suspect a problem with your exterior wall, roof or rising damp, Lucy recommends contacting a specialist who can identify the source and rectify the issue.
