The 95p hack that stops mould in your bathroom – and why opening the window DOESN'T work

The Sun

28-05-2025

THE cold and damp winter months may be behind us for now, but many households are still suffering from mould.
And people are being warned that opening the window after a shower could be the reason for condensation and spores growing in bathrooms.
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According to specialists at Shutter Store, opening the window after a shower can create the perfect breeding ground for mould.
Especially when the air outside is cooler than it is indoors, as this allows the cold outdoor air to mix with the warm, damp air from the bathroom - in turn, causing water vapour to condense quickly on surfaces.
It's even estimated that the likelihood of finding mould in a bathroom is two to three times higher than in bedrooms or living rooms.
After a hot shower, humidity levels in a bathroom can increase massively - especially in small or poorly ventilated spaces.
This moisture clings to tiles, mirrors, ceilings, and windows, and if not properly managed, mould can begin to grow within 24 to 48 hours.
And while opening a window after a shower may seem helpful, it can disrupt the airflow created by extractor fans and introduce cold air that accelerates condensation.
This leads to more moisture settling on surfaces, exactly what mould needs to thrive.
Instead, experts at Shutter Store have recommended a simple 95p mould-prevention tip that don't involve opening the window.
They said: "By applying a small amount of shaving foam to a mirror's surface and wiping it clean with a towel or microfiber cloth, a barrier is created between the steam and the glass.
"This method can keep your mirror steam-free for several weeks."
A tin of shaving foam costs as little as 95p in Aldi, making this a very affordable hack.
Wiping down all surfaces is also important, as they continued: "After a hot shower, moisture clings to walls, mirrors, windows, and even ceilings.
"If left to sit, this moisture can feed mould growth. To prevent this, use a towel or squeegee to wipe down tiles, glass, and countertops. Focus on corners and grout lines, where mould tends to settle."
Other options include investing in underfloor heating and leaving the extractor fan on for a full 30 minutes after you've finished your shower.
"It's also important to clean the fan every few months to remove dust and lint buildup", the Shutter Store team add.
Moisture absorbers like silica gel, calcium chloride crystals, or desiccant containers can also help prevent mould.
These passive tools draw excess humidity from the air and are especially useful in smaller bathrooms without windows or with poor ventilation.
Sam Tamlyn, Managing Director at Shutter Store, commented: 'Opening the bathroom window after a shower can reduce the effectiveness of your extractor fan and create cross-drafts that spread moisture.
"Instead, focus on wiping down surfaces and letting your fan do its job. Understanding how ventilation works is key to keeping mould at bay.'