10 Simple Ways to Keep Your Home Dry & Why DIY Mould Removal Can Make Things Worse

Keeping your home dry isn’t just about comfort, it’s one of the most effective ways to protect your health and prevent structural damage. Moisture creates the perfect breeding ground for mould and with it, the risk of mycotoxins, toxic chemicals released by certain mould species that can harm your health.

Below you find ten practical tips to keep your home dry, safe, and mould-free, plus an important note on why DIY mould removal often does more harm than good.

1. Fix Leaks Immediately

   Even small drips under a sink or around a window can lead to hidden water damage. Mould doesn’t need a flood, it just needs a bit of moisture and time.

   
   

2. Ventilate Bathrooms & Kitchens

   Use extractor fans during and after showers or cooking. Leave them running for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture from the air.

   
   

3. Keep Gutters Clean

   Blocked gutters can cause water to overflow and penetrate walls and foundations. Regular cleaning keeps rainwater flowing where it should, away from your home.

   
   

4. Check Roofs & Flashings

   Loose or cracked roof tiles and poor flashing are among the most common causes of long-term leaks. Annual inspections can prevent major repairs later.

   
   

5. Insulate Walls & Ceilings

   Insulation helps prevent condensation by keeping interior surfaces warm. This reduces the likelihood of mould growth, especially in colder rooms.

   
   

6. Use a Dehumidifier

   In damp climates or poorly ventilated spaces, a dehumidifier helps keep indoor humidity below 60%, discouraging mould growth and improving air quality.

   
   

7. Avoid Drying Clothes Indoors

   Hanging laundry inside releases large amounts of moisture into the air. If outdoor drying isn’t possible, use a well-ventilated area or a vented dryer.

   
   

8. Maintain Drainage Around the House

   Ensure the ground around your home slopes away from the foundation so rainwater doesn’t pool near walls or seep inside.

   
   

9. Keep Furniture Off External Walls

   Leave a small gap between furniture and walls to allow airflow, preventing condensation and hidden mould growth behind cabinets and beds.

   
   

10. Monitor Humidity Levels

    Use a hygrometer to measure indoor humidity. Keeping levels between 40-60% is ideal for comfort, health, and mould prevention.

Why DIY Mould Removal Isn’t a Good Idea

While DIY tutorials promise quick fixes, mould contamination is a health & safety issue, not a cleaning task. Wiping away visible mould may make a wall look cleaner, but it often spreads spores and releases mycotoxins into the air.

Most mould problems start from hidden water damage behind walls, under floors, or in HVAC systems. Without professional assessment and containment, DIY attempts can worsen contamination and exposure.

Professional assessment and mycotoxin testing ensure that the root cause, not just the visible growth, is properly identified and addressed.

Contact MYKES today if you have mould problems or suspect mycotoxin exposure - we give you peace of mind!