Black mould caution for parents

Homeowners experiencing condensation on their windows are being warned that failing to take action could lead to black mould growth.

Home insurance comparison experts from Quotezone.co.uk are warning parents especially, to tackle mould early and keep an eye out for common signs. 

Children’s rooms with blackout curtains or blinds are particularly susceptible to mould, as they could restrict the flow of air.

It can develop in hidden areas and exposure can lead to mould related allergies, respiratory problems or gastrointestinal conditions in children.* 

Parents using black out blinds and even closing over their children’s bedroom door at night to help them sleep, are being warned it could promote black mould growth due to the lack of fresh air circulating.

Black mould is a type of fungus commonly found in damp areas of the home, and it is especially dangerous to children. 

Greg Wilson, home insurance expert at Quotezone.co.uk said: “As the UK faces cold temperatures, frost and ice, we wanted to share helpful tips for parents struggling to keep mould at bay this winter.

“Children’s bedrooms offer the perfect conditions for growth, especially as so many parents invest in blackout blinds or curtains and close the door over to help their children have a better night’s sleep. 

“There are many steps parents can take to tackle mould in their child’s bedroom. Simple things like cleaning down the condensation from windows each morning, leaving windows open for a little while each day and opening up all the internal doors in the home to create a healthy air flow, can make all the difference.”

Here are ways to help prevent mould in children’s bedrooms, from Quotezone.co.uk:

1.Open windows 

Even on the coldest days, it is important to get the windows open and allow for circulation in your child’s bedroom. Having the window open for at least 30 minutes allows moist air to escape and brings dry air in.** 

2.Wipe condensation away 

During the coldest months, it is important to wipe down windows daily to get rid of condensation and dry out the windows. 

3.Open internal doors during the day 

Many parents will keep their child’s bedroom door pulled over at night to help keep the noise from the rest of the house out and aid a peaceful night’s sleep. During the day, make sure to open up all internal doors and allow the air to circulate in your home. 

4.Leave a gap with black-out blinds 

Blackout blinds could restrict airflow and lead to condensation and mould growth, so if you have blackout blinds or blackout curtains in your child’s room you should not close them fully, to help the air flow through and prevent pesky mould. 

5.Dehumidifiers 

If you are experiencing a consistent mould problem, investing in a dehumidifier can be a great way to remove damp air from a room. Alternatively, look into moisture absorbing products, there are some options which are designed specifically for children’s bedrooms, in colourful animal shapes. 

6.Check daily 

Keep a close eye on windows, seals and walls for damp and mould during the winter months to ensure you are tackling the problem as soon as possible. Make sure to check all areas of the room, including corners and behind furniture for any mould growth.

Ignoring mould can have detrimental impacts on your family’s health and may also invalidate your home insurance policy. If the mould is caused by a lack of maintenance, it’s unlikely to be covered as most insurance providers consider mould damage to be preventable. 

Quotezone helps millions of families every year compare and find savings on all sorts of essential products such as home, car and pet insurance.

References:

*https://awamoldinspections.com/mold-and-babies-harmful-effects-of-molds-to-children/
**https://www.jjhousing.co.uk/about-us/corporate-news/how-to-protect-your-home-from-condensation-and-mold/