Ceiling mould is common in UK homes, particularly in areas prone to high moisture levels such as bedrooms, kitchens, and bathrooms.
Monitoring for signs of growth and prompt removal of mould from ceilings is essential to avoid damage to paintwork or wallpaper on ceilings. Mould spores can also have a detrimental effect on home air quality, and can impact the health of your family.
In this guide, we’ll look at how to remove mould from ceilings and the conditions within your home which promote mould growth. It’s vital to tackle the root causes of mould within your home at the same time as cleaning to ensure removal is permanent.
How to Clean Mould Off Ceilings
Before you get started on treating your ceiling mould, consider the surface you’re working with. Paint, textured plaster, wallpaper, and decorative mouldings can all react differently to moisture and cleaning products. Spot test a small, inconspicuous area first so you can make sure your decor won’t be damaged.
Use Appropriate PPE - Ceilings are overhead surfaces so be cautious when spraying any cleaning product upwards. You’re at increased risk of eye and respiratory irritation, so ensure you wear goves, a mask, and protective eyewear.
Natural Mould Removers: Auro 412 & 413
If you’re looking for a non toxic but powerful solution, Auro 412 mould eliminator and Auro 413 mould prevention offer a reliable, eco friendly approach. These products are safe for indoor use and don’t rely on harsh chemicals.
How to Use Them:
Step 1: Apply Auro 412 – Spray evenly over the mouldy ceiling area and leave for at least an hour. When spraying overhead, wear eye protection to avoid contact with mist or drips.
Step 2: Remove Residue – Wipe the surface using a sponge or soft brush, then follow up with a clean damp cloth.
Step 3: Prevent Regrowth – Once the surface is dry, apply Auro 413 to inhibit future mould growth.
For painted ceilings, Auro 327 Anti Mould Paint offers long term protection, especially in high moisture spaces.
What Causes Mould on Ceilings?
Ceilings are particularly prone to mould due to moist air rising upwards and condensing. Before you begin cleaning, take a look at where the mould has grown and try to work out what the underlying cause might be. If you don’t take this vital step, it’s likely the mould will return.
Consider:-
Water Ingress - Could there be water coming from an exterior source? Mould will grow on damp patches. So check for leaks in roofs and gutters. If there’s an attic space above the ceiling you’re concerned about, get up there and make sure there’s no visible moisture.
Humidity Levels & Poor Ventilation - Moist air rises and settles on ceilings. This results in moisture build up, creating ideal conditions for mould to grow. Make sure your room is regularly ventilated and consider using a dehumidifier to remove moisture.
Poor Insulation - if your ceiling has cold spots, this will cause warm air to condense in those areas. Proper insulation can help minimise mould growth.
Non Breathable Materials - If you have an older home such as a Victorian property, cement based plasters can trap moisture and create mould issues. Use breathable paints and plasters (such as lime plasters) to ensure moisture can escape.
See Also: Is Mould Dangerous? | How to Prevent Mould | Removing Mould from Painted Walls
Bedroom Ceilings
Mould on bedroom ceilings is particularly problematic. During sleep, there will be prolonged exposure to spores which can have a detrimental effect on health.
Bedrooms are particularly prone to high moisture levels because the average human will exhale around half a pint of water vapour into the air overnight.
How to Prevent Mould on Bedroom Ceilings
Mould in bedrooms forms in areas such as corners, or above wardrobes where air circulation is poor.
To remove mould and prevent return:-
- Use mould spray for ceilings or a vinegar solution to clean the mould.
- Improve insulation in roof spaces to reduce condensation.
- Avoid placing furniture too close to walls and ceilings, which can trap moist air.
- Use a dehumidifier or air purifier, particularly in winter months.
Bathroom Ceilings
Bathrooms are the most common area within homes to suffer from mould growth. Steam from baths and showers condenses on ceilings and around windows, creating an ideal environment for black mould to grow.
How to Prevent Mould on Bathroom Ceilings
Bathrooms will need regular attention in terms of cleaning and ventilation to ensure the environment remains mould free.
To remove mould and prevent return:-
Clean regularly with a natural mould cleaner.
Ensure an extractor fan is installed.
Avoid leaving wet towels in the bathroom.
Use a squeegee to ensure moisture has been removed from shower screens and tiles after showering or bathing.
Leave the window open immediately after bathing.
Consider painting your bathroom ceiling with anti mould paint.
Does Bleach Kill Mould?
Bleach is a common solution for mould removal, but it’s best reserved for cosmetic purposes. It’s not always a great choice because it does not penetrate deeply enough to kill all spores.
Better Alternatives to Bleach
As advocates of clean air in your home, we’ve got some great suggestions for highly effective natural mould removal methods.
White Vinegar - simply use a 1 : 2 solution of water and vinegar. You can add a drop of dish detergent and some eucalyptus or tea tree oil. Spray on, leave for an hour, brush away mould spores, wipe away residue with a damp cloth.
Mould Removal Spray - As above, we recommend our very own Auro Natural Mould Removal Spray. Just as effective as chemical laden alternatives, and kind to your respiratory system!
Does White Vinegar Kill Mould?
Yes, White vinegar will kill mould. It’s highly effective and natural and will penetrate porous surfaces well. This makes it ideal for mould on ceiling issues.
Does Anti Mould Paint Work?
Anti Mould paint is an excellent preventative tool to deploy on mouldy ceilings, particularly in bathrooms and bedrooms. Our anti mould paint has naturally high ph levels which discourages mould growth. It’s also breathable which allows excess moisture to escape. However, you must clean all traces of mould away before overpainting. Trapping spores beneath a layer of paint will be a temporary solution at best.
Make Mould a Thing of The Past
Cleaning ceiling mould off is a challenging task, but you won’t have to do it repeatedly if you make sure the causes are removed at the same time. Remember to ensure good airflow and ventilation in your home, control humidity with dehumidifiers and extraction fans, fix any leaks or cracks, insulate cold surfaces, and treat with an effective anti mould paint.
Need help or advice about how to treat and prevent mould on your ceilings? Contact us for advice on how our range of products can help!
See Also: How to clean black mould off wallpaper | How to get rid of mould on walls permanently.
