The bedroom is often seen as an oasis for sleep and relaxation. It’s one of the rooms where the most time is spent – from sleeping, relaxing to recovering. If you find black mould in the bedroom, it can pose a serious problem for one’s health and causes severe disruption of air quality.
Here’s our quick guide on how to get rid of black mould in the bedroom, its causes and when it’s time to contact a professional mould removal specialist.
How to Get Rid of Black Mould in the Bedroom?
Due to its toxic spores, it is considered unsafe to remove large sections of black mould or a mould infestation on your own. If you find large patches of black mould in your bedroom or on the walls, you should contact a professional mould removal specialist for a treatment and prevention plan. For small amounts of mould on bedroom walls and window sills, you can use mould washes or bleach across painted surfaces:
Using a store-bought mould wash you can do the following:
- Prepare the surface of the wall by gently scrubbing it over with a hard-bristle brush until it has a smooth finish.
- Wash down the area with diluted was treatment and a sponge. Make sure to follow the directions of the treatments
- Allow the area to dry thoroughly
Bleach: Mix a 1:10 ratio of bleach and water and scrub the mould affected area. Spray on the area, allow to sit for 10- 15 minutes, wipe clean using a clean cloth and dry the area.
Although there are DIY remedies available for mould removal, due to their toxic spores, it is not recommended to attempt to remove black mould at home. If you do attempt black mould removal ensure that you are wearing protective eyewear, face mask and gloves and only remove small patches.
Because black mould can be dangerous, it is important to contact a professional mould removal service team and organise an inspection and treatment plan. A professional service can also address water-damaged areas and offer structural drying services to ensure your household is protected against black mould.
What Causes Black Mould in the Bedroom?
With thousands of strains known, black mould is considered one of the more well-known mould types growing in Australian homes.
With microscopic airborne mycotoxin spores, black mould easily circulates throughout the air and travel from room to room. Finding mould in the bedroom can mean you are at risk of breathing millions of allergens and toxins over several hours – especially when sleeping.
When mould is found in kitchens and bathrooms, it’s commonly due to high amounts of moisture from steam and humidity exposure. Black mould in the bedroom, on the other hand, is usually caused by high levels of condensation paired with humidity conditions. Window sills, walls and wardrobes are all common places for mould to grow around the bedroom and any other areas where there is little air circulation and inadequate ventilation.
Is Black Mould in the Bedroom Dangerous?
Yes. Frequently inhaling black mould spores are likely to cause ongoing respiratory discomfort in the upper tract and cause serious health concerns for vulnerable people. This may include infants, children, the elderly, those with underlying respiratory conditions and weakened immune systems. If you find black mould in the bedroom then you are at risk of continually breathing in toxic spores that may result in the following:
- Headaches
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Sneezing
- Dizziness
- Eye, throat, mouth and sinus irritations
- Black mould poisoning
Black mould severely disrupts the air quality if left untreated, overexposure can result in the onset of allergies or asthma for those with pre-existing conditions.
How to Prevent Black Mould in the Bedroom
The bedroom is one of the most vulnerable rooms in the household. Here are some helpful ways to prevent black mould growth in the bedroom:
Ventilation
Regular ventilation in and out of the bedroom is key for keeping black mould at bay. Ensure that any windows or doors are open and ventilated for at least five minutes every morning. This will not only decrease overall humidity levels but also airs out any old or stale air that has built up overnight.
If you live in a naturally humid climate, then it is important to actively use a dehumidifier or air-conditioners set to ‘dry mode’.
Airflow
Similarly, airflow is paramount for mould prevention. Cleaning the bedroom regularly reduces dust as well as decreases the amount of dirt and grime in the space while helping to prevent mould spores from forming colonies.
If you have any furniture, make sure you remove it slightly away from the wall. This ensures that enough fresh air can move between the furniture and walls as well as dry up any moisture that has been collected.
Clean Carpet Regularly
Carpets retain high amounts of moisture and dust from the air. Although it is extremely hard to eradicate mould spores entirely, regular vacuuming and ensuring that the carpets are kept dry will prevent mould from growing. If you suspect your carpet has black mould, reach out to a professional mould removal specialist for treatment.
When to Call a Mould Removal Professional
If you are afraid of mould becoming a problem in your home and are looking for a long-term solution, be sure to call upon a professional team to help you. The MouldMen team will inspect, treat and provide you with a Mould Management and Prevent Plan to ensure that your home is kept safe and free from black mould. Call us on 1300 60 59 60 to book your free inspection today.