4 Icky Things That Happen to the Home When There’s Too Much Humidity

We know that humidity makes us sweat and can make the home feel like a giant oven. But it’s a lot more damaging than you think.

Identify the possible damage and take the right steps to prevent them.

SOURCE: 101cleaningtips.net

Those brown stains at the corners of your shower, on your cubicle wall, or between your bathroom tiles aren’t just trapped dirt. They could very well be mould that occurs as a result of excess humidity.

• If you don’t already have one, get a ventilation fan for the bathroom. Leave it running for about 30 minutes post shower to completely rid moisture.
• Use a squeegee to clear the shower cubicle of water after a shower. This will prevent mould from forming.
• Check your tile grouts annually to see if the sealant is still sufficient. If it seems to be diminishing, get it re-sealed. 

Wood absorbs the moisture in the air and can swell. Prolonged exposure to humidity causes wood to become brittle.

• Avoid using wooden flooring in rooms that are particularly humid, such as the kitchen, bathroom, and dining area.
• Ventilation is key to keeping your wooden flooring and furniture intact. Open windows or doors to ensure airflow and use the fan and air conditioner to reduce humidity.

SOURCE: creoleindc.typepad.com

Humidity breeds mildew on fabric materials, causing stains and a terrible stench.

• Use a humidifier in rooms that have heavy fabrics.
• Plants like Peace Lily, English Ivy, and Boston Fern absorb moisture from the air, reducing humidity. Plus, they can liven up any room!

Moisture in the air causes metals to oxidise, resulting in rust. This puts your railing, pipes, and door hinges at risk.

• Regularly oil your door hinges to keep them swinging and rust-free.
• Look for rust-inhibitor coatings at your nearest hardware store. You can also look for paints that specifically protect metals from rust. Bonus points? You’ll get to customise your metal items!

Cover image from lumberliquidators.com.