Mould is one of those problems that can quietly take hold in your home, damaging surfaces, making rooms musty and uninviting, and triggering respiratory problems.
But with the right approach, it’s possible to remove it safely and stop it from returning.
Whether you’re dealing with a small patch in common trouble spots like ceilings, bedrooms, and walls, or a recurring issue, here’s how to get rid of mould.
WHAT CAUSES MOULD IN THE FIRST PLACE?
Most mould problems start with excess moisture. Everyday activities like cooking, showering, and drying clothes indoors release water vapour into the air, and if that moisture has nowhere to go, it condenses on cold surfaces like walls and ceilings.
Poor insulation, blocked air vents, leaking pipes, and inadequate ventilation all make things worse.
Bedrooms, bathrooms, and kitchens are particularly vulnerable, especially if windows stay shut or extractor fans aren’t used regularly.
HOW TO SPOT MOULD
Mould often starts as black or green spots in corners or along window frames. Sometimes it appears as a spreading patch on the ceiling or behind furniture where air doesn’t circulate. A damp, earthy smell is another giveaway.
Early treatment is best. The longer mould is left alone, the more likely it is to spread or return, especially in areas that stay damp for extended periods.
HOW TO GET RID OF MOULD: A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE
Follow these steps to remove surface mould safely and effectively:
- Protect yourself. Wear gloves, a mask, and eye protection. Mould spores can irritate your skin and lungs.
- Ventilate the area. Open windows and close interior doors to prevent spores from spreading.
- Clean the mould. Use warm soapy water, white vinegar, or a commercial mould remover. Avoid dry brushing, which releases spores into the air.
- Let it sit. If you’re using a mould spray, leave it to work for at least 30 minutes.
- Wipe clean. Use a damp cloth to remove residue, then dry the area fully with a fan or an open window.
- Dispose safely. Seal used cloths and gloves in a bag before binning. Wash your hands and clothes thoroughly.
This process is effective for painted walls, ceilings, and tiled surfaces. If mould keeps returning, there may be a deeper problem worth investigating.
HOW TO GET RID OF MOULD ON WALLS PERMANENTLY
Getting rid of visible mould is only part of the job.
Knowing how to get rid of mould on walls permanently means dealing with the underlying issue, which is usually condensation, poor insulation, or excess humidity.
Start by checking for leaks in the roof, windows, or plumbing. If there are no signs of water ingress, then the mould is likely caused by trapped moisture.
Cold spots on external walls are often the result of inadequate insulation, so consider using anti-mould paint or thermal liners to reduce the risk of condensation settling.
More importantly, improve the ventilation in the room. That might mean using an extractor fan, leaving windows open slightly, or ensuring vents aren’t blocked. In some cases, especially in bathrooms or loft rooms, installing an openable rooflight can significantly improve airflow and help prevent mould from returning.
HOW TO GET RID OF MOULD ON A CEILING
Mould on ceilings is common in areas where warm, moist air rises and has nowhere to go, like bathrooms or bedrooms without proper ventilation.
If you’ve noticed patches forming on plaster or paint, the first step is to clean them thoroughly following the process outlined above.
Once cleaned, it’s time to look at the bigger picture.
Check whether there’s an extractor fan nearby and whether windows are opened regularly. During colder months, homes are often kept tightly sealed, which allows moisture to build up and linger in the air.
Bedrooms are especially prone to this, and if you’re wondering how to get rid of mould on the ceiling in a bedroom, the answer usually lies in improving airflow and reducing humidity. If the ceiling is directly beneath a loft, check the insulation as well. Poorly insulated roofs can make ceiling surfaces colder, encouraging condensation to form overnight.
HOW TO PREVENT MOULD FROM COMING BACK
Knowing how to get rid of mould on walls permanently means changing how moisture behaves in your home.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Ventilate regularly. Open windows daily, even for a few minutes. In areas without adequate windows, rooflights or extractor fans can make a big difference.
- Use kitchen and bathroom fans. Always run extractors during showers or cooking, and leave them on for a few minutes afterwards.
- Avoid drying clothes indoors. If you must, do so in a well-ventilated space or with a dehumidifier running.
- Warm your home evenly. Cold rooms are more prone to condensation. Maintain a steady, low-level heat during colder months to avoid sudden temperature drops.
- Check insulation. Poorly insulated walls and roofs stay cold and attract moisture. Improving insulation helps surfaces stay dry and mould-free.
WHEN TO CALL IN A PROFESSIONAL
If the mould covers a large area, keeps coming back quickly, or has damaged plaster and wood beneath the surface, it’s time to seek expert help. A professional can inspect for hidden damp problems, use industrial treatments, and advise on structural ventilation fixes.
FAQs
CAN I JUST PAINT OVER MOULD?
Only once it’s been fully cleaned and treated. Use an anti-mould primer or paint for better long-term protection.
DOES BLEACH REMOVE MOULD?
Bleach can work on non-porous surfaces, but it isn’t always effective on walls or ceilings. White vinegar is often more reliable for household use.
WHAT CAUSES MOULD TO RETURN AFTER CLEANING?
Usually, it’s due to poor airflow or high humidity. Unless the root cause is fixed, mould will keep coming back.
IS MOULD ON A CEILING DANGEROUS?
Small patches aren’t usually hazardous, but ongoing exposure, especially in bedrooms, can affect air quality and health.
SAY GOODBYE TO MOULD
Mould can be persistent, but it’s preventable with the right approach.
Cleaning is the first step of how to get rid of mould, but lasting results come from managing moisture and improving airflow.
Whether it’s using extractor fans, opening windows, or installing an openable rooflight, good ventilation makes all the difference.
Here at The Rooflight Centre, we have a variety of rooflights to improve your ventilation. Contact us today to ensure your home stays fresher, healthier, and mould-free.
