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How to Prevent Mouldy Curtains and Blinds
Why does mould appear in the first place?
Mould grows in damp areas where there is a food source such as dust, dirt or organic material. That’s why single glazed or drafty windows, where condensation and dust are common, are often a problem area.
What are some tips for preventing mould growth?
Clean soft furnishings regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually involves a regular light vacuum, with less frequent dry cleaning or laundering. Regularly clean windows and wipe down window surrounds and venetian blinds or shutters with a mild detergent in warm water.
Does the material of the curtains affect how much mould will grow?
Yes, consider selecting window coverings manufactured from man-made materials, particularly in damp areas such as the bathroom, kitchen and on south-facing windows. It’s best to use a wipe-able, water-resistant blind or shutter in wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens. Even man-made fabrics don’t cope well in those environments.
How do I remove the mould?
Once mould develops it’s best to nip it in the bud as early as possible with a thorough clean. Some curtains can be hand washed (check the manufacturer’s instructions) but, for best results, we recommend taking them to a specialist cleaner. Curtain Clean services most of the North Island and takes care of all types of curtains and blinds.
Since moisture is the culprit, how can we minimise it in our homes?
- Use lids on pots and pans when cooking.
- Never hang clothes to dry inside and vent your clothes drier to the outside.
Keep reading: www.curtainclean.co.nz...
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Q&A: Ask a question about...Online Safety
Continuing with Neighbourly's online Q&A with experts in their field, this week we are tackling online safety with Jandy Fiske from Netsafe.
Jandy Fiske has been with Netsafe for nearly 8 years. Starting on their helpline, she's now Netsafe's Community Engagement Advisor. Jandy says: 'I'm passionate about online safety because I strongly oppose bullying and want to support those affected by it.'
Jandy is passionate about protecting vulnerable communities and is promoting online safety to ensure no one falls prey to online scams. She can answer your questions about any type of online scams, and also about online harm such as online bullying.
↓ Ask your question below now and she'll be online on Wednesday, 11th September to reply to you ↓
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Poll: Have you ever had a scary flight?
A plane flying from Christchurch to Wellington on Sunday had smoke billowing out of the engine and upon landing, passengers had to open the emergency exit and jump out. Have you had any scary flying experiences?
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56.4% Yes!
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43.6% No, it's always been smooth flying
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LIVE Q&A: Financial well-being with Cat Rikihana
Today (Wednesday) we're having another Neighbourly Q&A session. This time with Cat Rikihana who is a financial mentor, educator and financial capability practitioner at Financial Freedom Trust in the Manawatū.
Cat Rikihana (Ngai Tahu) like many financial mentors around Aotearoa, works with individuals, groups and whānau to successfully navigate financial stress and hardship. Mentors work alongside whānau to increase confidence and skills in personal money management and advocate with and for clients. Cat enjoys delivering online and face-to-face workshops which provide opportunities to normalise money conversations and encourages people to make time to consider their financial well-being.
Cat is also an independent financial well-being coach, educator and indigenous life coach at Restore Wellness Network. She is a published writer and currently in the process of writing her first non-fiction book: 'A financial self-care guide for women in Aotearoa.'
She'd love to answer any questions you may have around your budgeting and spending habits, strategies for saving, retirement planning and debt. (Don't be shy, but be mindful about what you disclose!)
↓ Share your questions now and Cat will reply to your comment below ↓
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