Natural Ways to Prevent Mold and Mildew During This Monsoon Season
The monsoon season is at its peak in the country and this year we have seen a lot of rain, which has helped us beat the summer heat. The monsoon never comes alone; it brings with it a variety of annoying problems, one of which is the development of mould or mildew on clothes.
Check again if you think you have been storing clothes neatly in a closet. Ideal conditions for fungal growth include a hot, humid climate, which is what happens during the monsoon season. The fungus, which looks like a white, powdery substance with black flecks, can easily develop on damp, wet clothes.
Due to the high humidity of the air during this time, clothes don’t always dry completely after washing. This means that the clothes you iron and fold to put away in the closets are really damp, making them vulnerable to mold growth. Cotton clothing in particular provides an ideal environment for mold growth. So here are some tips you should follow to prevent mold and mildew from appearing on any of your personal items at home.
What are mold and fungi?
Both are moisture-loving fungi, and while mold may look powdery and flat, mildew is often fuzzy or slimy. Both can cause allergies and respiratory disorders, although the former may have a more negative impact on health than the latter. Take quick action to protect your health and property.
Ways to prevent mold and mildew during this monsoon season
• Sun: When the sun is out, keep your shoes and clothes outside. This will remove all moisture. Also, let as much natural light into your home as possible. Opening your doors and windows on a sunny day can not only serve as a natural disinfectant, but it also helps to eliminate that musty smell.
• Silica gel: People store silica gel bags in closets or between clothes. Because silica absorbs moisture, mold cannot grow on clothing.
• Vinegar: Use vinegar to clean your clothes. Soak your clothes in a batch of laundry detergent that has been infused with 3/4 cup white vinegar. Both moldy areas and musty odors will be removed with vinegar.
• Lemon and salt: To treat mold-infested areas of clothing, mix lemon juice and salt together to form a thick paste. Then, wash and pat the area dry. The easiest way to destroy mold spores is to use hot water or use the disinfection or germ-killing feature on your washing machine.
• Borax: Available in powder or detergent form, this water-soluble mineral is also used as a natural mold remover. If it comes in powder form, mix it with water according to package directions.
• Neem: You can prevent fungus from reaching your clothes by stuffing a few arches of neem stems with leaves attached inside.
• Light bulb: If possible, place a low-wattage light bulb inside the cabinet. It helps produce gentle heat, which prevents humidity and bacteria.
First published: September 17, 2024 | 17:40 IS
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