UK households urged to put plant on windowsill before November

Households across the UK are being urged to put a clever little plant on their windowsill as temperatures drop ahead of November. The plant can help to reduce the build-up of moisture which can lead to an outbreak of mould.

The issue of damp and mould becomes more prevalent in the autumn months as temperatures drop in Britain. Most homes close their windows and turn on their heating which leads to increased humidity and perfect conditions for condensation. While most people opt for dehumidifiers and extractors to negate damp and mould, they can be expensive. However, one humble plant can be equally effective in deterring the common issue at a lower cost.

According to Net Mums, experts recommend putting an aloe vera plant on a windowsill to stop mould. The plant absorbs moisture from the air and releases anti-microbial compounds that deter the growth of mould.

Aloe vera plants, which can be bought for around £15, thrive near windows as they benefit from bright but indirect sunlight. They also prefer dry soil, which means they are low-maintenance plants as they require infrequent watering.

Net Mums said: "These plants work best in areas where moisture levels are high, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and even laundry rooms.

"Pop one on a windowsill near a steamy shower and you'll not only add some greenery to the space but also give mould less of a chance to thrive."

They added: "Another reason parents love aloe vera is how easy it is to look after. These succulents hardly need watering, especially during the colder months.

"Between November and March, you can practically ignore them. The only golden rule is to let the soil dry out completely before watering again - otherwise, you risk damaging the roots."

Outbreaks of mould can occur anywhere across the home but are particularly common in areas of higher humidity, including bedrooms and bathrooms. It's always easier to prevent an outbreak than to get rid of it.

Experts also recommend keeping your property between the temperatures of 17C and 18C to stop an outbreak. It is advised to keep the home at a consistent temperature to prevent damp and mould from forming.