How to prevent mould in your home this winter: Expert tips

Mould is a common problem in Australian homes, especially during the colder months when moisture builds up indoors. Poor ventilation, leaks, and high humidity contribute to mould growth, making maintaining your plumbing system properly essential.

Left unchecked, mould can damage your home, affect indoor air quality, and even pose health risks. The good news? With the right approach, you can prevent mould from taking hold in your home.

In this guide, we’ll explore how plumbing plays a crucial role in mould prevention and what steps you can take to keep your home mould-free—plus, when to call a plumber in Cheltenham for expert help.

What causes mould

Before we dive into how to prevent mould, let’s look at some of the most common causes. Mould thrives in damp, warm environments, making it a frequent issue in areas with poor ventilation or hidden moisture problems.

• Excess moisture from showers, cooking, and drying clothes indoors creates the perfect conditions for mould to grow.
• Faulty plumbing, roof leaks, or water seeping in from outside can lead to mould behind walls, under floors, or in ceilings.
• Poor ventilation traps damp air inside the home, encouraging mould growth in bathrooms, kitchens, and wardrobes.
• Condensation forms when warm indoor air meets cold surfaces like windows or poorly insulated walls, leading to moisture buildup.
• Blocked drainage causes water to pool around your home, increasing the risk of dampness and mould.

If you notice persistent dampness, musty odours, or visible mould, it’s a sign you may need a Cheltenham plumber to inspect your home for leaks or drainage issues.

Types of mould in the house

Mould comes in different forms; some types can be more harmful than others. The most common household moulds vary in colour, texture, and severity, often growing in damp areas like bathrooms, ceilings, and walls.

Identifying the type of mould in your home can help you take the right steps to remove it and prevent it from returning.

Black mould (Stachybotrys)

Often found in bathrooms, ceilings, or areas with persistent leaks, black mould is one of the most toxic mould types in homes. It releases harmful spores that can cause respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and even long-term health problems if left untreated.

White mould

White mould typically grows on wood, furniture, and walls in humid conditions where moisture lingers. It has a powdery appearance and can spread quickly, often going unnoticed until it covers larger surfaces.

Green mould (Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Penicillium)

Commonly found on damp walls, carpets, and fabrics, green mould is a frequent culprit in homes with excess moisture. It can trigger allergies, asthma, and other respiratory issues, particularly in people with weakened immune systems.

Orange or yellow mould

Usually seen in wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens, orange or yellow mould thrives in high-moisture environments. This slimy mould often forms on soap scum, organic materials, and around sinks or drains, where it feeds on bacteria and damp residues.

No matter the type, mould should be removed quickly to prevent it from spreading. The best way to stop mould in its tracks is to address the moisture issue at its source—often by fixing leaks, improving ventilation, and ensuring proper drainage.

How to prevent mould in your house

• Improve airflow by opening windows daily, even in winter.
• Use a dehumidifier in damp rooms to remove excess moisture.
• Check for leaks under sinks, near appliances, and inside walls.
• Wipe down windows and walls if condensation builds up.
• Check your hot water system for issues like leaks or excessive steam production, as faulty systems can contribute to excess humidity and moisture buildup.

How to prevent mould in the bedroom

• Ventilate daily by opening windows whenever possible to allow fresh air to circulate.
• Keep furniture away from walls to improve airflow and prevent moisture from getting trapped.
• Avoid drying clothes indoors as damp clothing increases the risk of mould.
• Use a dehumidifier or moisture absorber to keep humidity below 60%.

How to prevent mould in the bathroom

• Use an exhaust fan during and after showers to remove excess humidity.
• Wipe down wet surfaces like tiles and glass after showering to reduce lingering moisture.
• Fix leaks immediately if you notice damp patches or water stains.
• Reapply grout sealer every year to prevent water from seeping into walls.

How to prevent mould in your wardrobe

• Avoid overfilling the wardrobe to allow airflow and prevent moisture buildup.
• Use moisture absorbers like silica gel packs or charcoal bags.
• Open wardrobe doors occasionally, especially on sunny days, to improve ventilation.
• Check for leaks if your wardrobe is against a bathroom or kitchen wall.

How to prevent ceiling mould

• Use exhaust fans in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms to remove moisture.
• Check for roof leaks if you notice water stains or sagging ceilings.
• Ensure proper insulation to prevent condensation buildup in ceiling cavities.
• Repaint with anti-mould paint if you’ve had ceiling mould before.

Need a plumber in Cheltenham to help prevent mould?

Mould in your home could be a sign of underlying plumbing issues, such as leaks, poor drainage, or inadequate ventilation. If you’re dealing with persistent mould, Watermaster Plumbing is here to help.

Our expert Cheltenham plumbers can inspect your home, repair leaks, and improve your plumbing system to reduce moisture and prevent mould.

Don’t wait until mould takes over—call us now on 1300 737 476 or request a quote.