Winter is a key time when mould creeps into your home, releasing tiny spores into the air, which can trigger asthma and allergy symptoms. 

National Asthma Council Australia’s Sensitive Choice Program Manager Adele Taylor says it is important to eliminate the source of mould growth, as well as cleaning visible mould, to stop it from regrowing. 

“Unfortunately, bleach will remove visible mould but won’t kill the spores underneath and it may also irritate anyone with sensitivities. 

“For Australians living with asthma and allergies it is important to take control now to ensure you have a healthy home, as higher indoor humidity levels over winter make it easier for mould to grow. 

“The symptoms can include nose, eye, and skin irritation, sneezing or wheezing, and severe breathing difficulties in some people,” she said.

Ten top tips from Sensitive Choice to eliminate mould:

1. Remove any visible mould by cleaning with naturally fermented white vinegar solution
2. Wash sheets and pillowcases in water hotter than 55°C, or if you can’t wash in hot water, throw them in the tumble dryer even for a few minutes at a high temperature
3. Cover mattresses, quilts and pillows with dust mite-resistant cases and underlays
4. Use extractor fans in bathrooms, kitchens and laundries to help with natural ventilation
5. Seal leaks in bathrooms and roofs
6. Treat rising damp as soon as it is detected
7. When cleaning carpets and soft furnishings, use a vacuum cleaner with an asthma and allergy sensitive HEPA filter. For hard floors like timber or tiles, use a damp or electrostatic cloth or steam mop
8. Try to keep bedrooms dry and well-ventilated by opening windows regularly and leave wardrobe doors ajar
9. Cleaning can be a challenge for people with asthma and allergies, so look out for sensitive household cleaning products with fewer harsh chemicals and no fragrances
10. Consider buying a dehumidifier to remove moisture and/or an air purifier with a HEPA filter– to reduce air borne mould spores.

For more information visit sensitivechoice.com

For further information or an interview with a National Asthma Council Australia Sensitive Choice spokesperson, please contact: Donna Le Page, Le Page PR
Mobile: 0429 825 703 Email: donna@lepage-pr.com.au