Treating Your Home for Mould and Mildew After Cyclone Alfred
The aftermath of Cyclone Alfred has left many homeowners facing the challenging task of cleaning up water-damaged areas and dealing with one of the most common issues that follows a major storm—mould and mildew. When excess moisture lingers in your home, it creates the perfect environment for these fungi to grow. Not only can mould and mildew damage your property, but they can also affect your health, particularly for those with allergies, asthma, or weakened immune systems. Taking swift, thorough action is essential to prevent further harm and restore your home to a safe, clean condition.
Understanding the Problem: Why Mould and Mildew Grow
Mould and mildew thrive in damp, dark, and humid environments. When Cyclone Alfred brought heavy rains and flooding, it left many homes saturated with water—soaked carpets, damp walls, waterlogged furniture, and high humidity levels all created an ideal breeding ground. Within just 24 to 48 hours, mould can begin to grow on a variety of surfaces, including drywall, wood, fabrics, and insulation.
While mildew often appears as a thin, white or grey patch that’s easier to clean, mould is usually darker—black, green, or brown—and can spread quickly. Both can produce musty odours and trigger health issues, making it important to address them as soon as possible.
Step 1: Prioritise Safety and Assess the Damage
Before you begin treating mould and mildew, ensure the affected areas are safe to enter. Wear protective clothing, including gloves, goggles, and a mask designed to filter out mould spores (an N95 mask is ideal). Avoid touching or breathing in the mould directly, as exposure can irritate your skin and lungs.
Start by inspecting all areas of your home, especially those that were flooded or where water pooled. Check the walls, ceilings, flooring, and any furnishings that were exposed to water. Look for visible mould, discolouration, and any signs of mildew growth. Note the severity and spread—this will help you decide
Step 2: Remove Excess Moisture and Ventilate
Drying out your home is the first and most crucial step in preventing further mould growth. Open windows and doors to increase airflow and use fans to help circulate air. If you have access to a dehumidifier, set it up in the affected areas to pull moisture out of the air and reduce humidity levels. The faster you can dry the environment, the less chance mould will have to spread.
Step 3: Clean and Treat Affected Areas
For small to moderate mould infestations, you can often handle the cleaning process yourself. However, if the mould covers more than 1 square metre, or if it has penetrated deeply into walls or insulation, it’s best to call in professionals.
When cleaning smaller patches of mould and mildew, use the following steps:
Scrub hard surfaces: Mix a solution of 1 cup of household bleach to 4 litres of water. Use a stiff brush or sponge to scrub the mould away. Make sure the area is well-ventilated, and never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaners, as this can create toxic fumes.
Rinse and dry: After scrubbing, wipe the surface clean with a damp cloth and then dry it thoroughly.
Use mould-specific products: In addition to bleach, there are commercial mould-removal sprays and solutions that can help kill spores and prevent regrowth.
Dispose of porous materials: Items like carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, or drywall that have absorbed water and developed mould are often beyond saving. It’s better to discard them to prevent further contamination.
Step 4: Protect Your Belongings
If you have valuable or sentimental items that have been exposed to mould, act quickly. Paper documents, photographs, or artwork can sometimes be salvaged by drying them out as soon as possible. If you can’t clean these items yourself, consider consulting a professional restoration service. Clothes and linens should be washed in hot water and dried thoroughly before being stored again.
Step 5: Monitor and Prevent Future Growth
After the initial cleanup, keep an eye on previously affected areas. Even if you’ve removed visible mould, spores can remain and grow again if conditions are right. Continue to run dehumidifiers or fans, especially in rooms that naturally retain moisture, such as bathrooms and basements. Regularly inspect these areas and clean them as soon as you notice any signs of mildew.
Step 6: Address Underlying Issues
Sometimes mould returns because the root cause of the moisture hasn’t been fixed. After Cyclone Alfred, it’s crucial to repair leaks, seal cracks, and ensure that gutters and downpipes are working properly. Improving ventilation in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry areas can also help keep humidity levels down. Consider adding extractor fans or leaving windows open when possible to reduce moisture build-up.
When to Call in Professionals
If you discover extensive mould growth, or if it’s spread into structural components of your home, professional help is often the safest option. Mould remediation experts have the tools and expertise to remove mould without spreading spores further and to treat areas you might not be able to reach. They can also test your air quality and ensure that your home is fully safe to live in again.
The Importance of Acting Quickly
Mould and mildew can cause long-term damage to both your home and your health if left untreated. Taking immediate steps after Cyclone Alfred to dry, clean, and repair your property is the best way to minimise damage and create a healthier living environment. By following these guidelines and staying vigilant, you can keep mould at bay and protect your home and loved ones from its harmful effects.
