Mould on Walls

Why Does Mould Form on Your Ceilings and Walls?

Mould growth on walls and ceilings is a common issue that can be both unsightly and damaging to your home. Understanding why this happens and how to address it can help you maintain a healthier living environment.

Mouldy walls are typically the result of excess moisture in your home. This can be caused by a range of factors, including poor ventilation, leaks, or high humidity. When moisture accumulates, it creates an ideal environment for the fungus to thrive. Common places where you might notice growth include corners of walls, behind furniture, and around windows.

If you have a mouldy ceiling, it is often a sign of a leak or condensation issue. Condensation occurs when warm, moist air comes into contact with cooler surfaces, such as a ceiling that isn’t properly insulated. If not addressed promptly, this moisture can lead to mildew growth.

How Your Daily Habits Might Be Causing Mould at Home

Everyday activities such as drying clothes indoors and the steam from hot showers can significantly increase indoor humidity. Persistent high humidity in your home creates an ideal environment for the fungus to start forming on your walls. Managing humidity through effective airflow is crucial; however, timing is key. For instance, air conditioners running cold overnight may contribute to its growth as morning temperatures rise, causing condensation on walls when doors are opened to cooler rooms.

Easy Ways to Spot Mould at Home

Signs of Mould on Walls and Ceilings

Early detection can prevent further damage and health issues. Common signs of mouldy walls and mouldy ceilings include visible discolouration, often appearing as black, green, or grey patches. You might also notice a musty odour, which indicates the presence of mildew, even if it is not immediately visible. In some cases, peeling paint or wallpaper can signal that the fungus is growing beneath the surface.

Advanced Indicators of Mould and Moisture

Severe dampness can manifest as peeling plaster, visible damp patches, or mildew. Walls with a yellow tint, a furry appearance, black speckles, slight discolouration of paint, or small mites are all significant indicators of moisture damage and potential growth.

Symptoms Indicative of Mould Exposure

A musty odour, allergic reactions, or consistent sneezing and sniffles can also signal hidden mildew growth; these are telltale signs of allergies which can be prevented with early inspection and treatment.

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How to Remove Mould from Walls and Ceilings Safely

Considerations for Mould Removal

Effective removal depends on its location, the type of wall material, the duration of its presence, and the moisture source. For non-porous walls with small isolated patches, you can use specific solutions that are best at resolving the problem, like Concrobium® Disinfectant or Concrobium® Mould Control, applied with a microfibre cloth.

Handling Porous Materials

For porous surfaces like unpainted drywall, more intensive measures are necessary as the fungus can penetrate deep into the material. Similarly, removing mould from ceilings requires extra care since it often indicates underlying issues like leaks or poor ventilation. In such cases, contacting a professional like Mouldgone is essential for a thorough assessment, advice, and a detailed remediation plan.

How to Effectively Get Rid of Mildew on Walls and Ceilings

Identify the Source of Moisture

The first step in how to get rid of mould on walls and ceilings is identifying and addressing the source of moisture. Mould thrives in damp conditions, so it’s crucial to determine if the moisture is due to leaks, high humidity, or poor ventilation. Check for leaks in roofs, pipes, and windows.

After fixing these issues, begin by removing any existing mould using products like Concrobium® Disinfectant, which is FDA approved, non-toxic, and safe for use around children and pets. For larger or tougher jobs,  Concrobium® Mould Control can create an antimicrobial shield to eliminate and prevent future growth.

Both Concrobium products are FDA approved, non-toxic, child and pet friendly and non-staining. If treating the inside of a wardrobe ensure not to re-hang clothes until the entire area is completely dry. Store your hanging items with some space between each item when possible, this ensures air flow is maintained between the clothing and will help to prevent re-growth. It is important to keep the inside of your closet dry to prevent mildew from forming in the first place.

Use Mould-Resistant Products

Once the moisture issue is resolved, you can focus on cleaning the fungus. To remove mould from the ceiling and walls, make sure to select appropriate mould-resistant products to further protect your home.  Our Thirsty Camel moisture hangers and pouches are designed to absorb moisture and protect your valuables, including clothes, handbags, and shoes. 

For moisture absorbency inside cupboards, we recommend the Thirsty Camel 1kg Pouch for larger areas, or the Thirsty Camel 260gr Pouch for the inside of drawers, photo boxes, small spaces, shoe boxes etc. Periodically replace these biodegradable, plastic-free pouches to ensure effectiveness.

Protect your valuables from irreversible damage by strategically placing these long-lasting pouches throughout your home. Regular checks and replacements help maintain a mildew-free environment.

Maintain Proper Ventilation

Adequate airflow helps reduce moisture levels, which is key to avoiding mouldy walls and mouldy ceilings. Ensure that your home is well-ventilated by using exhaust fans in areas prone to humidity, such as bathrooms and kitchens. Open windows regularly to allow fresh air to circulate and reduce indoor humidity. Additionally, consider using a dehumidifier in damp areas to keep moisture levels in check.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What causes mouldy walls and ceilings to appear in the first place?

Mould is a result of excess moisture, often due to poor ventilation, high humidity, or water leaks. A mouldy ceiling may indicate a leak or insulation issue, while mouldy walls tend to form in corners, behind furniture, or near windows where airflow is limited. For a full breakdown of causes and prevention tips, explore our homepage.

2. How do I safely remove mould from my walls at home?

If you’re wondering how to remove mould from walls, begin by gearing up with a mask, protective eyewear, and gloves—this will shield you from any airborne mould spores or potentially harmful particles. For minor mould spots on non-porous surfaces, use a product like Concrobium® Mould Control, applied with a microfibre cloth. For porous materials or larger issues, professional help is highly recommended. You can book a mould assessment with us for tailored advice and effective treatment options.

3. What’s the best way to get rid of mildew on walls long-term?

The key to how to get rid of mould on walls and ceilings is identifying the factors causing mould—whether it’s a leak, humidity, or condensation. Once fixed, it is important to use mould-resistant cleaning products and preventative measures. Consider solutions like Mould Prevent Pro, an EPA-registered, botanical-based cleaner and disinfectant designed to inhibit mould growth without harsh chemicals. Additionally, employing moisture-absorbing sachets can help lower humidity levels, a significant contributor to mould development.

4. Can I remove mould from the ceiling myself, or should I call a professional?

It depends on the severity. For light patches, you can remove mould from the ceiling with the right non-toxic product and care. However, a mouldy ceiling often signals underlying problems like poor insulation or a roof leak—issues that need professional diagnosis. When in doubt, it’s best to get in touch with us for expert support.

5. How do I prevent mould and mildew from coming back once it’s cleaned?

Good ventilation is key—use exhaust fans, open windows regularly, and consider dehumidifiers for damp-prone rooms. After cleaning, continue using moisture absorbers such as the Thirsty Camel pouches to keep humidity under control. For long-lasting results, browse our full range of mould prevention products.