This mixture is well known in domestic cleaning for its excellent disinfectant properties, but it is also effective for removing damp from walls without using chemicals that are potentially harmful to health. The presence of damp is one of the main problems faced by thousands of Spaniards in their homes. It usually starts with a small, almost imperceptible stain that may even go unnoticed, but if not eliminated in time, it can spread to such an extent that it causes serious structural damage. It is advisable to act quickly to avoid more serious problems, and there are several effective methods for eliminating damp from walls, from professional treatments to home remedies.
Although some people prefer to use bleach and ammonia, which may seem effective, experienced painters do not recommend the continuous use of these products and prefer more natural home remedies that can clean and disinfect the surface without damaging the paint or harming health. To do this, they use a combination of two ingredients that can be found in any home: white vinegar and baking soda. This mixture is well known for household cleaning due to its excellent disinfectant properties, but it is also effective for removing moisture from walls without using chemicals that are potentially harmful to health. To prepare the mixture, you need to mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle (for deep stains, you can use pure vinegar).
Once the mixture is ready, apply it to the affected area, spraying directly onto the mould or damp stains, and leave it to work for 30 minutes so that the vinegar can act and remove the mould spores. Then scrub the area with a soft brush or sponge to remove the mould. Finally, wipe with a damp cloth, remove any residue and ventilate the room well. Vinegar, thanks to its natural acidity, acts as a disinfectant and antifungal, while bicarbonate of soda helps to remove stains and neutralises unpleasant odours. With this combination, you can clean the surface and achieve a drier, spore-free environment.
Other alternatives for keeping walls dry
Bicarbonate of soda can also be used separately to absorb moisture in the room. Placing a container with this powder near the wall where there is moisture can help reduce excess water in the air and thus prevent new stains from appearing. In addition, there are other measures that can be taken on a daily basis to help keep walls dry. One of them is to air the rooms daily, especially after cooking or bathing, but it is also recommended to avoid drying clothes indoors, as the steam condenses on the walls.
In case of humidity problems in rooms with poor air circulation, the use of dehumidifiers is recommended, and if none of these possible solutions solve the problem, it may be necessary to check the pipes and connections to detect possible leaks that are causing it. With these small habits and actions, it is possible to keep the humidity level under control and prevent mould from returning. In any case, after treating the affected area, measures must be taken to prevent the humidity from returning.
