The NHS has provided some advice as the ‘silent killer’ makes its return to homes across the nation.
It’s getting to that time of the year again – break the hoodies and umbrellas out, as the weather begins to go downhill for the next few months.
With just Christmas to look forward to, it can be a tough time with shorter hours and less sunlight, but there is something more pressing than all of this, and it could directly affect your health.
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The wet weather plays a huge part in the problem (Karl Hendon/Getty)
Cold winter months are coming in thick and fast, and with the wet weather, parts of your home may become damp and become breeding grounds for mould.
It usually forms in colder areas such as the bathroom or under sinks, though that’s not to say that the more frequent use of radiators and heaters coming into play will stop it from growing.
There are health risks associated with leaving mould to grow, as it can cause respiratory illnesses, trigger allergies and asthma.
In serious cases, letting mould thrive can lead to death.
You should get rid of mould as quickly as you can (Getty Stock Photo)
The microscopic fungus releases dangerous spores into the atmosphere.
You can identify mould in your home as it has a few noticeable characteristics.
Mould is often fuzzy with black, white or green patches and comes with a musty smell.
Those with compromised immune systems, such as babies and the elderly, are more at risk to symptoms.
The most common cause of mould in UK homes is condensation; often found in places where there’s high moisture levels like bathrooms, kitchens and on and around windows.
If condensation is left to sit, the surface can become damp and create the conditions needed for mould to grow.
How to minimise mould in your home
According to the NHS, daily tasks such as cooking and drying washing indoors can also exacerbate the problem.
To avoid this, try taking shorter showers and ensuring your bathroom extractor fan is switched on during and after your shower to stop the steam from your shower turning into condensation.
It’s recommended that you also open your windows when cooking or drying washing indoors as this can help let the moisture in the air escape.
Leaving mould to grow could have catastrophic effects on your long-term health (Getty Stock Photo)
If cooking, make sure your hob’s extractor fan is on a high setting. Wiping down surfaces can also stop moisture from pooling on windowsills and walls.
Don’t forget to check for leaky pipes or gutters that can make problems worse.
A new law has been introduced to give renters more support when it comes to tackling a mouldy home.
The law was created after two-year-old Awaab Ishak sadly died after prolonged exposure to mould in his home.
Landlords must investigate mould-related issues within 14 days and begin to tackle them within a further seven days.
Any emergency repairs would need to be made within 24 hours and landlords who fail to comply with this could be taken to court.