Tips for Mould Prevention & Treatment after Cyclone Alfred

The combination of moisture and high humidity creates the perfect conditions for mould to grow, which can affect both your health and your home.

Identifying Mould

Sometimes you can see mould when it discolours walls, ceilings, and other surfaces. If you can’t see it, you might be able to detect a musty, unpleasant odour instead.

Here are some tips provided by the Queensland Government to help you try and get on top of any mould in your home.

If You Have Power

• Increase Ventilation: Open windows and doors when it is safe to do so and use fans or air conditioning to improve airflow.
• Use Dehumidifiers & Air Conditioners: If available, run these on the dry setting to reduce humidity levels.
• Clean Damp Surfaces Quickly: Wipe down damp walls, furniture, and surfaces with a solution of vinegar and water or a mild detergent. Check behind paintings/photos on the walls as mould can often grow behind these. Household cleaning agents or detergents can do an effective job if used correctly, as can white fermented vinegar cleaning solution. Avoid using bleach, as it is not an effective mould killer.
• Damp Absorption: If your local supermarket, hardware store, or local discount stores have Damp Rid (or something similar), place these in wardrobes, cupboards, and rooms to help absorb moisture.
• Wash and Dry Items: Wash clothing, bedding, and soft furnishings or toys in hot water and dry as soon as possible. If they can’t be washed, they should be disposed of.
• Nonporous Items: Items such as glassware and some plastics can be washed in hot water with a bleach solution or disinfectant and air-dried. If using a dishwasher, clean and disinfect it first before running a full cycle with hot water.

If You Do Not Have Power

• Maximise Natural Ventilation: Even with the rain, open doors and windows when possible to allow air circulation. Use battery-operated fans if available.
• Remove Excess Moisture: Use towels to soak up standing water and wring them out outside. Avoid leaving wet materials indoors.
• Isolate Mould-Affected Items: If you notice mould on soft furnishings or clothing, remove them from your main living areas to prevent spores from spreading.
• Temporary Cleaning: If safe to do so, clean hard surfaces with vinegar and water or a mild detergent to slow mould growth.

General Safety Tips

• Health First: Wear a mask and gloves when cleaning.
• Dispose of Heavily Affected Items: Soft furnishings, carpets, and other porous materials that cannot be thoroughly dried may need to be removed.
• Report Major Issues: If you notice significant mould growth, leaks, or other concerns, please report them to village management.

Effective Homemade Mould Solutions

If you can’t get out to the shops, you may have some of these ingredients already in your pantry.

1. Vinegar Solution

• How to make: Mix equal parts of white distilled vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
• How to use: Spray the solution on mouldy surfaces, let it sit for about an hour, then scrub and wipe clean.
• Why it works: Vinegar's mild acidity helps kill mould and prevent its growth.

2. Baking Soda Paste

• How to make: Combine baking soda with enough water to form a paste.
• How to use: Apply the paste to mouldy areas, let it sit for about an hour, then scrub and wipe clean.
• Why it works: Baking soda is a natural absorbent and has alkaline properties that can help kill mould.

3. Tea Tree Oil Solution

• How to make: Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with water in a spray bottle.
• How to use: Spray the solution on mouldy areas and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping clean.
• Why it works: Tea tree oil is a natural fungicide that can help kill mould spores.

4. Hydrogen Peroxide Solution

• How to make: Mix 3% hydrogen peroxide with water in a spray bottle.
• How to use: Spray the solution on mouldy areas and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping clean.
• Why it works: Hydrogen peroxide is an effective disinfectant and can help kill mould.