It's the wet season! Tips to keep humidity & surface mould under control

Here’s a handy list of ways to reduce excess moisture and humidity within your home.
GENERAL
• Open your curtains and blinds during the day to let the sun into your home
• Ventilate your rooms by opening windows and doors. This will keep your windows and walls dry. Consider using extractor fans and heating rooms with dry heat
LIVING AREAS
• Regularly air and clean your carpets and rugs
• Keep your indoor plant collection under control (they create humidity!)
• Clean regularly; dirt and dust can be a contributing factor to mould growth
• Try to place furniture an inch or so away from the walls
KITCHEN
• Run your exhaust or range hood van. Cooking can generate large amounts of steam, so this will prevent a build-up of steam and moisture
• Try to use lids on your pots and pans; this will help avoid steam build-up
• Wipe any wet stains from surfaces after use (sinks, kitchen counters, tiles, etc.)
• Regularly clean your exhaust or range hood fan to avoid blockages
BATHROOM
• Run the exhaust fan when you use hot plumbing to prevent moisture build-up on surfaces
• Open your bathroom windows to allow any moisture to escape
• Make sure your exhaust fan is clear and clean at all times
• Add cold water to your bath first to reduce steam production
LAUNDRY
• Dry your clothes and linen thoroughly before you put them away
• Open a window when you use a drier with a vent on the front to avoid moisture build-up
• Dry your clothes in a cool area. This will take longer, but less moisture will be held in the air
• Leave your washing machine door open after each wash to allow moisture to escape
• Remove wet clothes from your machine immediately after a wash
• Where possible, dry your clothes outside
BEDROOMS AND CUPBOARDS
• Keep cupboards and bedrooms uncluttered and well ventilated
• Store your dry items in sealed, plastic containers
• Maintain good air movement in storage areas
HEATING
• On cool days, try to keep the inside temperature at least five degrees higher than outside
• Provide a continuous low level of dry heat to reduce condensation and mould growth
Health tip: If your rental is prone to dampness, invest in a dehumidifier. These machines will literally suck moisture out of the air, which will help prevent mould from growing in the first place.

Article courtesy Rent.com.au