Mold growth is more common is spaces where elevated levels of moisture are frequent, such as bathrooms, kitchens or laundry rooms.

Molds (yes, there are several types) occur naturally in the environment, being responsible for breaking down organic matter such as fallen leaves or dead trees. However, indoors they are a big no-no. Its spores, invisible to the naked eye, float and concentrate in the air, turning into strong allergens and causing eye, nose, and throat irritation. Asthma, persistent coughing, wheezing and even intense chronic headaches are just some of the awful reactions one can have to it when shortly or continually exposed within four walls [1].

For mold to propagate, it must find a suitable level of moisture and the right temperature. This is why it’s more common to see it in bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms, where there is plenty of (hot) water, and not always efficient mechanisms to allow for proper evaporation and ventilation [2].

But before you think this is a lost battle, here are some good habits, that if adopted consistently might make all the difference in keeping mold away!

1. OPEN THE WINDOW AFTER SHOWERING

Ventilate, ventilate, ventilate properly! Steam must get out, as humidity levels above 50% are a major trigger of mold. Opening the window(s) immediately after showering is the first step to keep your bathroom mold-free. No windows? Go for a fan or, even better, an efficient dehumidifier, never forgetting to clean its collection bucket and condensation coils regularly.

2. LEAVE THE DOOR OPEN WHILE AIRING THE HOUSE

This one becomes especially important if you have a small, windowless bathroom. By leaving the door open while airing other divisions, you are helping humidity to spread out instead of concentrate in just a limited, confined area, preventing the ideal conditions for mold to spread.

3. AVOID CARPETS

Carpets absorb moist and collect dust and organic matter, two major elements that need to be present for mold to grow. If you don’t intend to wash them weekly and let them fully dry outside every time they get damp, it is better to avoid them altogether. Alternatively, use a smaller towel on the floor to dry your feet after leaving the tub and put it to wash after use.

Pro tip: Never forget to also dust your bathroom! Dust and all that sticks to it is fuel to mold spores, so don’t forget to pass the duster over the little frame you have over your toilet seat and inside the radiator as well.

4. CHECK FOR LEAKY PIPES REGULARLY

Prevention is key! By frequently checking if there’s any leakage in the space, we avoid damp areas that make the bathroom prone to mold. Quickly check behind all faucets, sinks and drainages every time you clean. Fix any malfunctions immediately to avoid later, bigger issues, and never forget to dry everything properly in the end.

5. ADD A PLANT THAT LOVES HUMIDITY

Plants will not fix high humidity in a bathroom alone, but they can give us a helping hand! Spider plants (chlorophytum comosum) and snake plants (dracaena trifasciata), for instance, can be great choices that are low-maintenance, not requiring frequent watering or much sunlight exposure [3].

6. PREFER TILES AS A FINISHING

Naturally waterproof, tiles will not absorb and accumulate moisture and are easy to mop and clean. They should be the preferred choice to finish bathroom and kitchen surfaces as they are also cost-effective and easy to upkeep.

7. USE WITH EFFECTIVE NON-TOXIC PRODUCTS TO CLEAN

Faced with mold, many resort to bleach, but bleach is quite concerning to human health as well. Opt for natural, long-used solutions that are just as efficient [4]. Instead, try spraying undiluted white distilled vinegar (or hydrogen peroxide, for an odourless option) over the mold stains, let it sit for some minutes and then scrub the area well.

Pro tip: Tea tree oil is a powerful natural fungicide! You can add some drops of it to your home-made cleaning sprays to kill mold effectively or prevent its comeback.

8. WASH TOWELS FREQUENTLY

Apply a no damp-cloths inside policy! Putting towels to dry outside after use, instead of leaving them damp in the bathroom. Washing them every few uses can make all the difference in keeping humidity levels within acceptable ranges…

9. MOP UP ANY EXCESS CONDENSATION OR USE A SQUEEGEE

By quickly moping away the water vapor that accumulates over the main surfaces after showering, we can already reduce a significant amount of humidity inside, reducing the time all the surfaces will take to dry out.

10. REPLACE YOUR SHOWER CURTAIN REGULARLY

Taking out shower curtains to dry every time we shower is a herculean task that no one really does, but its regular washing and cleaning should not be overlooked. Regardless of all the care, they will probably be one of the find places where we will notice the appearance of those dark moldy stains. To avoid it, make sure to replace them regularly.