Cleaning expert Chantel Mila, known as Mama Mila on TikTok, has shared a natural remedy to prevent mould in wardrobes and cupboards using just two household items: uncooked rice and lemon essential oil. The hack aims to absorb excess moisture that can lead to mould growth on clothes and surfaces.
How the Natural Remedy Works
Mould thrives in wardrobes and cupboards due to high humidity, poor ventilation, and damp clothes, especially during colder months. Chantel recommends placing a generous amount of uncooked rice in a drawstring bag and adding a few drops of lemon essential oil to freshen the scent. Rice acts as a natural desiccant, absorbing moisture from the air and helping maintain a dry environment.
Michael Bogoyavlenskiy, CEO at Cleaning Express, told Homes & Gardens: "This hack is decent enough because rice is absorbent. It'll happily suck up smells as it absorbs moisture from the air. The addition of some essential oil is a good tip because then the rice itself will give out a pleasant smell to mask any nasty odors it's also absorbing."
Long-Lasting and Versatile
The rice can be left in wardrobes for up to two to three months at a time, or replaced earlier if it begins to clump together. This method also works in small bathrooms with excessive moisture. While many opt for dehumidifiers, this natural alternative is cost-effective and uses items commonly found in the kitchen.
Additional Tips for Mould Prevention
To further reduce mould risk, ensure wardrobes are well-ventilated and avoid storing damp clothes. Regularly check for condensation on cold surfaces and address any leaks. Chantel's hack is part of a series of cleaning tips she shared on TikTok, including using cloves and lemon to repel flies and shaving cream to remove makeup stains.
