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Goodbye Damp January: Experts share simple trick for the bedroom 

WITH THE UK in the depths of an everlasting January, the weather is promising colder temperatures and persistent rain, meaning many homes are battling the unwelcome guests of damp and mould.

Beyond being an eyesore in your home, mould poses a significant health risk. It could be the cause of those pesky cold or flu symptoms you can’t seem to shake, and can severely disrupt your sleep quality.  

Sleep expert Chris Tattersall, managing director of natural bedding brand Woolroom, is committed to helping everyone achieve a healthy sleep naturally. Below, Chris has highlighted the dangers of household mould, where it often hides, and effective ways to protect your home, particularly your bedroom, from damp and mould this winter. 

The impact of mould on health and sleep 

Mould spreads by releasing microscopic spores into the air, thriving in areas with excess moisture. Bathrooms and kitchens are common hotspots, but bedrooms can be just as susceptible, especially if they contain particularly porous materials such as cardboard, wood or wallpaper. Hidden moisture from roof and window leaks, condensation, excessive humidity, or uncleaned spills can also create the perfect environment for mould growth in your sleep sanctuary. 

how to prevent mould in the home

Exposure to mould can lead to a range of health troubles, with common effects including nasal congestion, chronic cough and skin irritation, to more severe issues such as respiratory problems, allergic reactions and weakened immune systems. These health risks are especially troubling for vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly or those with pre-existing conditions, and children – who may have an increased risk of developing asthma if exposed to mould in the first year of life*.  

Mould doesn’t just harm your physical health, it can also impact your sleep. Studies show that mould exposure is associated with sleep disturbances, including increased snoring, insomnia and sleep deprivation**. Considering we spend over a third of our lives sleeping, prolonged exposure to mould in your bedroom can have a much greater impact on your overall health and wellbeing than you might realise.  

Where mould hides in the bedroom 

·                  Mattresses and bedding 

It is important that air can circulate easily as you sleep, not only to keep you cool, but to also manage moisture such as sweat. This breathability is essential for preventing the build-up of bacteria that thrive in a humid environment. 

Mattresses made from synthetic materials, such as memory foam, are notorious for trapping moisture and creating an ideal breeding ground for mould. However, those made from natural fibres, such as a wool mattress, will manage moisture and help to maintain a dry sleep environment, repelling any fungal spores. 

·                  Walls and ceilings 

You should keep an eye out for signs of damp, condensation or water damage on your bedroom walls and ceiling, such as cracking paint or dark patches. If left untreated, especially if concealed beneath wallpaper, panelling or behind furniture, this could lead to mould growth that could rapidly spread. 

·                  Carpets and rugs 

If left damp or wet, carpets and rugs can provide an ample breeding ground for mould, and in many cases, it won’t be visible. You should look out for discolouration or an odour, as this is usually a sign of mould growth. Make sure to always clean up any spills immediately, as it only takes around 48 hours for mould to grow from a water spill.  

How to tackle mould in the bedroom in three easy steps:  

how to prevent mould in the home

1.               Prevent moisture build-up 

Regularly opening bedroom windows, even in the winter months, is a simple but essential way to improve air circulation, reduce humidity and allow your bedding to breathe. Ideally, you would want the humidity of your room to be around 45-50RH%, so if you know your room tends to trap humidity, it might be worth investing in a dehumidifier.

2.               Clean and treat affected areas 

Once you’ve located the cause of moisture, you need to remove those pesky spores. Firstly, make sure to protect yourself by wearing gloves and opening windows for ventilation. Using a bucket of water mixed with washing-up liquid, or a mould and mildew remover spray, wipe the mould off the area. Be careful not to brush it as this can release mould spores into the air and use a dry cloth to remove any excess moisture. You can also use bleach to treat the mould, but make sure it is removing the spores rather than just discolouring the wall beneath.  

Furniture should be taken outside to be treated to reduce the risk of spores spreading, however, particularly porous items such as synthetic mattresses should be disposed of.  

3.               Prevent future growth 

Simple steps to prevent future growth include: ensuring spills are cleaned immediately, leaving a gap behind furniture to allow better airflow and treating any problem areas with mould and mildew spray quickly, before it has time to spread. 

When it comes to your bedroom, opting for natural materials is crucial for managing moisture and preventing future damp and mould. Natural options, like wool bedding, have breathable fibres that offer unique temperature regulating and hypoallergenic properties, transporting moisture away from you and your bedding and creating the ultimate healthy sleep environment. 

*National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences: https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/mold  

** Dampness and mold at home and at work and onset of insomnia symptoms, snoring and excessive daytime sleepiness. Environment international: 

https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0160412020301008

To explore Woolroom’s full range of natural and hypoallergenic products, visit: https://www.thewoolroom.com/   

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