How To Prevent Mould In A Built-In Wardrobe

CONTENTS

• What causes mould in a built-in wardrobe?
• The effects of mould growth in a wardrobe
• How to remove mould from a built-in wardrobe
• The best ways to prevent mould in built-in wardrobes
• Book your mould remediation today

Mould at the back of a built-in wardrobe is a common issue due to its often cramped conditions and poor air circulation. You must take preventative measures to protect your clothes against the harmful fungus or it could put your health at risk and damage your clothes.

Our mould removal services consist of a nine-stage process that can eliminate all the mould from your property, including mould in the air. Our Dewpoint-accredited technicians are available nationwide, 24/7, 365 days a year to provide our mould cleaning services.

Keep reading to learn how to prevent mould growth in your built-in wardrobe. 

What causes mould in a built-in wardrobe?

Mould spores are constantly floating in the air. When they land on a damp surface, they start to grow. Built-in wardrobes often provide mould with these damp surfaces, as well as the organic material it feeds off (fabric, wood, and other building materials) so it can thrive.

High humidity levels

Putting damp clothes away means they release lots of moisture into the air, making the air inside the wardrobe humid. This moist air can make surfaces damp which mould can grow on, or it can start to form on the damp clothes.

Lack of ventilation

Poor airflow is one of the main contributors to mould development. In closed spaces like built-in wardrobes, air circulation is often minimal. Without adequate ventilation, humid air can get stuck inside the space and moisture on surfaces cannot evaporate efficiently.

Leaking pipes

Water leaks from pipes located near or within walls adjacent to built-in wardrobes can also make its surfaces damp and increase humidity. Rising and penetrating damp can cause mould in fitted wardrobes, too. 

You can learn more about what causes mould growth in wardrobes in this blog. 

The effects of mould growth in a wardrobe

When mould starts to grow in your built-in closet, it is not just your clothes and personal belongings that suffer; the closet structure and even your well-being could be at stake. 

Mould feeds off organic materials so it can slowly cause wood used to build the material and the possessions inside of it to deteriorate. It can also lead to unsightly, stubborn stains on fabrics while leather goods can become discoloured and weakened.

The fungus releases a musty, damp odour, too, making your clothes unwearable no matter how much you wash them. 

The integrity of your built-in wardrobe's structure is at risk when exposed to persistent moisture levels conducive to mould growth. Wood components may warp or rot over time as they absorb moisture from their surroundings which will affect how it looks and functions, such as not allowing doors to close correctly or shelves sagging.  

Perhaps most importantly, mould is linked to a range of health problems. When you touch, inhale, or ingest spores, it can trigger allergic reactions, respiratory infections, and more serious ailments. People with pre-existing conditions, weakened immune systems, or elderly people and young children are especially vulnerable to mould growth. 

When you wear clothes with mould on them, you will likely be inhaling and touching mould for extended periods of time.

How to remove mould from a built-in wardrobe

Most DIY mould removal methods scratch the surface of the problem and cannot eradicate mould in porous surfaces, like wood or fabric, so it will just grow back after treatment. Mould remediation is dangerous without the right personal protective equipment (PPE), too. You will be highly likely to inhale or touch the mould, and could cause it to release spores with a very abrasive cleaning method. 

It is recommended you always bring in professionals for mould remediation. They have the specialist tools, PPE, and knowledge to eliminate all of the mould safely, including mould in difficult to reach areas. 

Beyond thorough removal, professionals can assess the root cause of moisture build-up, as well. Experts can offer bespoke advice, such as enhancing air flow or suggesting specific dehumidifiers for compact areas like closets, to help you prevent mould from returning in the future.

The best ways to prevent mould in built-in wardrobes

Make sure there is sufficient airflow in the wardrobe. This might mean leaving doors slightly open or installing vents within the wardrobe itself. 

Additionally, avoid overfilling your wardrobe as this restricts airflow between clothes which can create micro-environments where moisture accumulates more readily.

Keeping humidity levels in check is vital for preventing mould, too. Aim for a relative humidity below 50% within your home and especially around storage areas like wardrobes. A dehumidifier can be an effective tool in managing indoor humidity levels, too.

You should always make sure your clothes are completely dry before you put them away, as well. You can learn more about how to prevent mould in your closet in this blog. 

Book your mould remediation today

We operate nationwide, 24/7, 365 days a year. If it is an emergency, we can be on site to remove mould from your property within a matter of hours.

Get in touch with our friendly team today on 0208 066 0360 or enquiries@icecleaning.co.uk to find out more about our mould cleaning services.