Mould in wardrobes can damage clothes and go unnoticed for months, but a cleaning expert says two natural items can help prevent it from growing. Cleaning expert and TikTok creator Chantel Mila, widely recognised as Mama Mila, recommends using uncooked rice and lemon essential oil to combat moisture accumulation in wardrobes and cupboards.
Why Mould Thrives in Wardrobes
Mould flourishes in wardrobes and cupboards due to a combination of dampness, inadequate ventilation, and organic material. This can prove particularly problematic during colder months when homes are heated. Mould can take hold in areas with elevated humidity, condensation on cold surfaces, and damp clothing, creating ideal conditions for spores to spread on clothes, walls, and shelving.
The Natural Solution: Rice and Lemon Oil
Instead of using a dehumidifier, Chantel suggests placing a generous quantity of uncooked rice inside a drawstring bag and adding a few drops of lemon essential oil. The rice acts as a natural desiccant, drawing moisture from the air and helping keep the environment dry. The lemon oil freshens the wardrobe's smell.
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 their 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."
Effectiveness and Longevity
This method can remain effective for two to three months at a time. Alternatively, replace the rice sooner if it starts to clump together. It works well in smaller bathrooms too, where excess moisture is a concern, absorbing dampness and eliminating lingering smells.
