Keep Mould & Mildew at Bay Naturally

As the cooler, damper months arrive, many of us start to notice mould and mildew appearing around our homes. Window sills, curtains, bathrooms and other areas with poor ventilation can quickly become breeding grounds for unwanted mould.

While supermarket mould removers may seem like the easy option, many contain harsh chemicals and strong fumes that aren't particularly pleasant to breathe in. Fortunately, there are simple, natural ways to remove mould and help prevent it from returning, without filling your home with unnecessary chemicals.

Removing Mould from Hard Surfaces

If the mould is dry, the first step is to remove as much of it as possible.

Using a stiff scrubbing brush (available from most hardware stores), brush away the dry mould outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. Once you've removed as much as you can, mix:

3ml Pure Clove Bud Essential Oil

1 litre filtered water

Pour into a spray bottle, shake well and generously spray the affected area. Leave it for 24 hours before wiping the surface clean.

Once the area is completely dry, spray it with Green Goddess Mould Magic and allow it to dry naturally. This helps inhibit mould regrowth for up to a month, depending on humidity levels.

Finish by cleaning any glass or shiny surfaces with our Green Goddess Glass & Stainless Spray Cleaner for a sparkling finish.

How to Remove Mildew from Curtains

Mildew on curtains can often be removed using an old-fashioned method that's surprisingly effective.

Carefully remove the curtains and soak them overnight in a bucket of warm water with 1kg of non-iodised salt dissolved in it.

The next day, hang the curtains on the clothesline in full sun without rinsing them. As the water evaporates, the salt will crystallise on the fabric. Once dry, gently brush off the salt and, in many cases, the mildew will brush away with it.

Always test for colourfastness first if you're unsure how your curtain fabric will react. This method has worked particularly well on net curtains.

Before rehanging, give the curtains a light spray with Green Goddess Mould Magic to help discourage mould from returning.

A Naturally Cleaner Bathroom

Bathrooms are one of the most common places for mould to thrive because of constant warmth and moisture.

Start by giving surfaces a thorough clean using Green Goddess Rose or Peppermint Cleaning Paste. These are ideal for baths, basins, shower floors, tiles and sinks. An old toothbrush dipped into the paste works brilliantly for grout lines, around taps, silicone seals and other hard-to-reach areas.

Rinse everything thoroughly and allow the surfaces to dry completely.

Then spray areas prone to mould with Green Goddess Mould Magic and leave it to dry naturally. Regular use, especially in showers and around window frames, can help keep mould under control.

Finally, polish mirrors, shower glass and taps with Green Goddess Glass & Stainless Spray Cleaner for a streak-free shine.

Prevention Is Better Than Cure

The best way to deal with mould is to stop it taking hold in the first place.

Simple habits can make a big difference:

Open windows whenever possible to improve airflow.

Use extractor fans during and after showering.

Wipe excess condensation from windows.

Dry wet surfaces after use.

Keep bathrooms and laundries well ventilated.

Treat problem areas regularly with Green Goddess Mould Magic, especially during winter.

A little prevention now can save a lot of scrubbing later, helping to keep your home cleaner, healthier and fresher all season long.