The Managing Mould Series. Part 2: Wall & Ceiling Mould - How to Identify and Clean It Safely

Not all mould looks the same. On your walls and ceilings, you might spot tiny black specks or white chalky patches. Both are warning signs and both can be dealt with safely. Black mould can affect your health, releasing spores that may trigger asthma, allergies, or breathing issues - especially in kids, the elderly, or those with weak immune systems.

🕵️‍♀️ What Mould Looks Like

🖤 Black spots: These can start small, like a sprinkle of pepper but cab spread quickly, especially in damp corners or areas where condensation forms. Common in bathrooms, but they can appear anywhere in the home.

⚪ White, chalky patches: This could be efflorescence (salt deposits from water seepage, often found on concrete floors or tiles) or surface mould. Either way, it’s a sign of trapped moisture.

🧽 Clean It Safely

Catch it early: The sooner you act, the easier it is to remove. Waiting allows the mould to root deeper into your paint or plaster.

Know when to DIY and when to call in help: Small amounts of mould in obvious spots like bathroom tiles or windowsills (where condensation forms) can usually be cleaned safely yourself. But if it’s spreading throughout your home, appearing on walls, ceilings, or furniture, or if the source isn’t clear, it’s best to call a mould specialist. They can identify the cause, treat it effectively, and clean safely without risking your health.

Use a safe, effective mould cleaner: We recommend a hydrogen peroxide-based spray like Simply Clean’s No Mould – it kills spores without harsh fumes. You can also use white vinegar, just DON'T mix it with bleach (see warning below!).

Never use bleach on porous surfaces: Bleach may make mould look like it’s gone, but it doesn’t kill the root spores. Plus, bleach fumes can be harmful and irritate your lungs.

🧯 Safety First!

When cleaning mould:

• Wear a mask (preferably a P2 or N95) to protect your lungs

• Wear safety glasses to avoid irritation

• Use gloves and long sleeves

• Shower immediately afterwards

• Wash cleaning clothes separately

• Open windows for ventilation

• Keep children and pets out of the area while cleaning

  
  

🌀 Ongoing Prevention Tips

• Use a dehumidifier or your air conditioner’s dry mode to reduce humidity

• Keep rooms well ventilated, especially bathrooms and bedrooms

• Regularly check ceilings, corners, and behind furniture for early signs

• Wipe away condensation on windows or walls as soon as you see it

  
  

Wall and ceiling mould might look intimidating, but a proactive approach makes all the difference. Clean early, clean safely, and take small steps each week to reduce indoor humidity.

Next week, we’ll tackle one of the worst offenders: shower mould. Busting bleach myths and sharing smarter ways to stay on top of it!

Keep Sparkling!

Kylie x