Why wood furniture molds and how to prevent it: Tips and Tricks.
Working from home can be a great way to increase productivity and flexibility, but it also comes with a number of challenges. One of these challenges is the possibility of mould on wooden furniture. In this post, we will discuss why wooden furniture gets mouldy and what you can do about it.
I. Introduction
With more and more people working from home due to the pandemic, mould growth on wooden furniture has become a common problem. Mould can not only damage your furniture but also cause health problems for you and your family members. However, there are measures you can take to prevent mould growth and keep your wooden furniture in good condition.
II. Why wooden furniture gets mouldy
Wooden furniture is prone to mould growth because it is an organic material that can absorb moisture. Mould spores can easily attach themselves to the surface of the wood and if the conditions are right, they can grow and spread. The main factors that contribute to mould growth on wooden furniture include:
High humidity: If the humidity in your home is high, it can create a damp environment that promotes mould growth. This is especially true in poorly ventilated spaces such as closets and basements.
Water damage: Water damage from leaks, spills or floods can create the perfect conditions for mould to grow on wooden furniture.
Lack of air circulation: Poor air circulation can also contribute to mould growth on wooden furniture. When furniture is against a wall or in a confined space, it can trap moisture and prevent air from circulating around it.
III. How to stop, clean and remove mould on furniture?
- Using a stiff brush or sponge, scrub away any visible mould on the surface of the furniture piece.
- Remove any excess moisture with a dry cloth or a vacuum.
- Mix a solution of 10% bleach (or baking soda or cleaning vinegar as a more natural alternative) and 90% water and spray it on the affected surface. This disinfects and will kill the mould spores within 10 minutes.
- Rub the surface again with the bleach solution and the mould will come off.
- Next, you will want to rinse the area with clean water and remove any remaining bleach solution.
- Should you have any remaining mould stains or discoloration after the cleaning, lightly sand (very fine grain sandpaper or dry sponge) the surface to remove them.
By following these steps and maintaining proper humidity levels, you can effectively remove existing mold and prevent future mold growth on your wood furniture.
IV. How to prevent mould growth on wooden furniture
To prevent mould growth on wooden furniture, you can take the following measures:
1. Increase air circulation: Move furniture away from walls and use fans to increase air circulation. You can also open windows and doors to allow fresh air to flow through the affected space.
2. Keep humidity in check: use a dehumidifier to lower the humidity in your home. Ideally, the humidity should be between 30% and 50 %.
3. Keep your furniture clean: Clean your wooden furniture regularly with a dry cloth to remove dust and dirt that can attract mould spores.
4. Avoid water damage: Wipe up spills immediately and repair leaks or water damage promptly.
V. Conclusion
Mould growth on wooden furniture is a common problem, but it can be avoided with proper care and maintenance. By keeping humidity under control, avoiding water damage, improving air circulation and keeping furniture clean, you can prevent mould growth and keep your wooden furniture in good condition. With these tips, you can work from home without worrying about the negative effects of mould on your furniture and your health.
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