What is Mould And How to Defeat It

Mould is a microscopic fungus. They thrive in damp and poor ventilated areas.

Mould is dangerous because it releases tiny spores which travel through the air. These spores can often be attached to other toxins/allergens, and when present in large enough quantities, harmful to humans. It can be in many colours, not just green.

Natural ways to kill mould

Three natural and eco-friendly ways to kill mould without the use of harsh chemicals.

- Vinegar: White distilled vinegar. Add to spray bottle, do not dilute. It kills up to 82% of mould. Wipe with cloth or use a stern brush.

- Tea Treat oil: Add two teaspoons and mix with about two cups of water. Then add to spray bottle. In order to work it must be left on the mould.

- Baking Soda: can be used alone or mixed with water and/or vinegar. This method doesn't leave behind a scent.

Why does mould grow on wall, window frames and ceiling?

Mould is caused mainly by high humidity levels and condensation.

Humidity is amount of water vapour in the air, the higher the water vapour - the higher the level of humidity.

Condensation is where the water vapour turns into water droplets. It cools via contact with a cold surface. In geography terms, its when gas (water vapour) condenses back into liquid.

Why is mould harmful?

Toxic mould can trigger 'sick house syndrome'. This is where people experience symptoms of ill health as a result of poor indoor air quality.

According to the 'Health and Safety Executive', these symptoms can include: congested nose, headaches, lethargy, skin irritation and poor concentration.

Mould can in more serious cases trigger allergic reaction, lung infection, migraines, sneezing, chronic cough, difficulties breathing and may be linked to increased risk of Parkinson's disease.

Also, mould contributes to 'Chronic Fatigue syndrome'. Symptoms include exhaustion, memory loss, loss of concentration, disturbed sleep patterns and persistent headaches.

Conditions in which mould flourish

Poorly ventilated houses

Damp houses

Houses where windows are mostly closed

Overcrowded flats

Interesting source

From Surety Property Group, a compressive little guide to mould

Adverse health effects of oil based paint

Oil-based paint contains high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and hydrocarbons,  these evaporate as the paint dries.

Other Substances found in some oil-based paints include formaldehyde, benzene (are carcinogenic), heavy metals and phthalates - these are human and toxins.

VOCs are toxic, inhaling them causes adverse health effects. Potential health impacts of inhaling these harsh chemicals include: respiratory difficulties, confusion, rapid heartbeat, skin irritation and blistering, irritated eyes and sinuses.

Oil based paint and mould

Oil-based paint provides a nutritious environment for mold and mildew (a thin greyish/white coating of fungi) because mildew will feed on the oils in the paint.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

According to the EPA, exposure to VOC's form oil-based paints can cause cancer, organ and damages to the central nervous system. However what is unclear, is which of these compounds is most harmful and what amount is considered most toxic.

EPA is an independent US federal agency created to protect human health and the environment. They write and enforce the regulations produced by US congress. 

Immediate health effects

These include headache, nausea, dizziness and fatigue.

Disturbingly purposefully sniffing paint fumes can potentially cause irreversible brain damage and even death on the first incident.

Prevention

Alternatively use water based and organic paint. After painting your bedroom, use the room for as little as possible for 48 hours, while keeping the windows open the whole time.

Interesting read

Healthy and environment issues with oil-based paint, from hercentre.org.