Can you banish mould forever with this simple chalk trick? Expert weighs in
- Replies 10
Mould and moisture in the home can be a persistent problem, particularly in the damper, cooler months. It's no wonder that when a simple and cost-effective solution goes viral, many are quick to take notice.
But is it a really true moisture-busting miracle, or just another internet myth?
The trick, which had been circulating online, suggested that placing a piece of chalk on window sills can prevent the buildup of condensation and mould.
The original poster, a mum, thanks to this trick, the usual morning condensation was nowhere to be seen, and she was hopeful this would prevent long-term mould growth.
The post read: ‘Every morning we woke up and the bedroom windows had condensation on them.’
‘And in the long term, it’ll probably turn into mould. So I tried. For the last three mornings, our windows have been dry. Absolutely dry,’ she added.
The idea behind the trick is that chalk, being a porous material, can absorb moisture from the air, thus reducing humidity and the potential for mould growth.
The mum added that placing one piece of chalk on three glass windows is effective and that it worked in one bathroom and two bedrooms.
‘I don’t know how long the chalk will be good for, but certainly cheaper than getting a dehumidifier or the moisture-absorbing stuff,’ she shared.
‘(I) hope this helps someone else, too! Also, if you have only coloured (chalk), maybe put a plate or bowl under it just in case,’ the mum suggested.
It's a concept that has many rushing to their art supplies or the nearest stationery store to test it out for themselves.
Some members of the group have reported success, while others have found the trick to be ineffective.
‘Great idea. I can only imagine that you can reuse and leave the chalk in the sun to dry out each day,’ one social media user wrote.
'Saw this last week and tried it,' another commenter shared. '100 per cent does not work.'
But before you start lining your window sills with sticks of chalk, it's important to consider the science behind mould prevention and the expert opinion on the matter.
Penny Tralau, a Certified Indoor Environmental Consultant and Managing Director of Mould Rescue, weighed in on the debate, expressing scepticism about the effectiveness of the chalk trick.
According to Tralau, while the technique may seem to offer a quick fix, it doesn't address the underlying issues that lead to mould growth.
Mould spores are microscopic and can remain even when you think they've been eradicated. She pointed out that non-viable mould spores can be more toxic than live ones, and simple home remedies like chalk, vinegar, or clove oil are unlikely to provide a long-term solution.
Tralau emphasised that a dehumidifier is far more effective at managing moisture levels than a piece of chalk.
Additionally, she suggested that leaving windows slightly open overnight can help reduce excess moisture.
‘A home is like a human, it has to breathe all the time,’ she explained.
While the chalk trick might seem like an attractive and budget-friendly option, it's essential to approach it with a healthy dose of scepticism.
If you're dealing with persistent mould and moisture issues, it's best to invest in proven methods like dehumidifiers or seek professional advice to ensure your home remains healthy and mould-free.
For those who are curious, there's no harm in trying the chalk trick as a temporary measure or in conjunction with other moisture-reducing strategies.
However, it's crucial to monitor the situation closely and be ready to take more substantial measures if the problem persists.
While the viral chalk trick has gained popularity for its simplicity and low cost, expert advice suggested that it's not a substitute for proper moisture control methods.
Looking for more handy life techniques? We've prepared a brief list just for you. Click here to view them.
As with many internet tips and tricks, it's always best to research and consult with professionals before relying on them as a solution. Remember, when it comes to your home's health, it's better to be safe than sorry.
Have you tried this chalk technique, members? What home care tips and tricks have worked for you? Share them in the comments below!
But is it a really true moisture-busting miracle, or just another internet myth?
The trick, which had been circulating online, suggested that placing a piece of chalk on window sills can prevent the buildup of condensation and mould.
The original poster, a mum, thanks to this trick, the usual morning condensation was nowhere to be seen, and she was hopeful this would prevent long-term mould growth.
An unconventional technique suggested that placing chalk on the window sill can prevent condensation and mould. Credit: Shutterstock
The post read: ‘Every morning we woke up and the bedroom windows had condensation on them.’
‘And in the long term, it’ll probably turn into mould. So I tried. For the last three mornings, our windows have been dry. Absolutely dry,’ she added.
The idea behind the trick is that chalk, being a porous material, can absorb moisture from the air, thus reducing humidity and the potential for mould growth.
The mum added that placing one piece of chalk on three glass windows is effective and that it worked in one bathroom and two bedrooms.
‘I don’t know how long the chalk will be good for, but certainly cheaper than getting a dehumidifier or the moisture-absorbing stuff,’ she shared.
‘(I) hope this helps someone else, too! Also, if you have only coloured (chalk), maybe put a plate or bowl under it just in case,’ the mum suggested.
It's a concept that has many rushing to their art supplies or the nearest stationery store to test it out for themselves.
Some members of the group have reported success, while others have found the trick to be ineffective.
‘Great idea. I can only imagine that you can reuse and leave the chalk in the sun to dry out each day,’ one social media user wrote.
'Saw this last week and tried it,' another commenter shared. '100 per cent does not work.'
But before you start lining your window sills with sticks of chalk, it's important to consider the science behind mould prevention and the expert opinion on the matter.
Penny Tralau, a Certified Indoor Environmental Consultant and Managing Director of Mould Rescue, weighed in on the debate, expressing scepticism about the effectiveness of the chalk trick.
According to Tralau, while the technique may seem to offer a quick fix, it doesn't address the underlying issues that lead to mould growth.
Online discussions about preventing mould are gaining traction. Credit: Shutterstock
Mould spores are microscopic and can remain even when you think they've been eradicated. She pointed out that non-viable mould spores can be more toxic than live ones, and simple home remedies like chalk, vinegar, or clove oil are unlikely to provide a long-term solution.
Tralau emphasised that a dehumidifier is far more effective at managing moisture levels than a piece of chalk.
Additionally, she suggested that leaving windows slightly open overnight can help reduce excess moisture.
‘A home is like a human, it has to breathe all the time,’ she explained.
While the chalk trick might seem like an attractive and budget-friendly option, it's essential to approach it with a healthy dose of scepticism.
If you're dealing with persistent mould and moisture issues, it's best to invest in proven methods like dehumidifiers or seek professional advice to ensure your home remains healthy and mould-free.
A mould expert advised that using a dehumidifier is more effective than relying on chalk to prevent condensation. Credit: Shutterstock
For those who are curious, there's no harm in trying the chalk trick as a temporary measure or in conjunction with other moisture-reducing strategies.
However, it's crucial to monitor the situation closely and be ready to take more substantial measures if the problem persists.
While the viral chalk trick has gained popularity for its simplicity and low cost, expert advice suggested that it's not a substitute for proper moisture control methods.
Looking for more handy life techniques? We've prepared a brief list just for you. Click here to view them.
As with many internet tips and tricks, it's always best to research and consult with professionals before relying on them as a solution. Remember, when it comes to your home's health, it's better to be safe than sorry.
Have you tried this chalk technique, members? What home care tips and tricks have worked for you? Share them in the comments below!
.png){kind=icon}
