Mould remains an enduring issue in households across Britain, with dampness appearing in the most unexpected places. One area particularly vulnerable to this problem is the wardrobe, where, if left unaddressed, spores can start forming on garments and footwear, resulting in permanent damage.
Simple solution from cleaning enthusiast
To help homeowners address mould growth before it becomes established, cleaning enthusiast and TikToker Chantel Mila, who posts as Mama Mila, has revealed a surprising method to prevent moisture accumulation. For those without a dehumidifier, she recommends that placing just two items inside your wardrobe could help prevent moisture from transforming into mould. She characterised it as a trick that everyone ought to be aware of, but "no one ever teaches you."
Chantel encouraged her followers to "work smarter, not harder" when approaching household cleaning tasks. Mould thrives in wardrobes due to a combination of dampness, poor ventilation, and organic material. It typically develops in locations with elevated humidity levels, where condensation collects on cold surfaces, and where damp clothing provides the perfect environment for mould spores to multiply, leading to mould spreading across garments, walls, and shelving.
Rice and lemon oil as desiccants
While many homes might turn to a dehumidifier, Chantel has suggested a simple household solution that should help absorb moisture before it has the opportunity to develop into mould. In her latest video, Chantel recommended using uncooked rice, placing it within a fabric drawstring bag alongside a small amount of lemon oil, to efficiently absorb surplus moisture.
Rice is a natural desiccant, meaning it extracts moisture from the air or nearby materials, helping to maintain a dry environment. Including lemon oil can also help keep wardrobes smelling delightfully fresh.
Tim Warren, a DIY specialist from Adkwik, told Ideal Home that humidity levels within wardrobes should ideally be maintained between 40 and 60%. While he suggested using a dehumidifier as the most effective solution, desiccants are also a practical option, as they extract moisture directly from the air. This is exactly why rice proves so beneficial. Other common desiccants include baking soda.
He said: "Placing these in your wardrobe can help to keep the air dry, reducing the risk of mould growth. You can also buy artificial moisture-absorbing desiccants, such as silica gel packets or charcoal bags."
