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It’s time to bid farewell to summer for another year and start facing the reality that soon it’s going to be cold and damp for a while. As we enter those colder months and condensation appears on the windows, we thought it was a good time to share some tips on preventing mould and mildew … View moreIt’s time to bid farewell to summer for another year and start facing the reality that soon it’s going to be cold and damp for a while. As we enter those colder months and condensation appears on the windows, we thought it was a good time to share some tips on preventing mould and mildew growing on your curtains.
What makes mould and mildew grow?
Interestingly, it’s not directly the condensation on your windows that causes mould and mildew because most curtains don’t come into contact with it. Mould and mildew grow when there’s moisture and warmth in the home, which condensation does contribute to.
Just like everything absorbent in your home, as temperatures go up the moisture in the air evaporates and is absorbed into the fabric. As they cool, the moisture changes back from its gaseous state to being closer to its liquid form. In absorbing this moisture they also take in any bacteria it holds. Repeated over time, this is what causes the nasty growths.
The difference between mould and mildew
Mould is a broad term that encompasses multiple identical nuclei and can grow beneath and penetrate the surface of affected material. Mildew is a type of mould that grows on the surface and can therefore be much more easily treated/removed. When it’s live, moulds are orangey or reddish in colour. The black patches we see are actually the hibernating mould spores waiting for the sun to warm them up and bring them back to life.
Where does all this moisture come from?
We live in a pretty humid climate in New Zealand at the best of times; in some areas it’s even greater. But it’s not all weather related. Cooking, showering, drying clothes, unflued gas heaters and simply breathing and existing all produce moisture content within our homes.
Preventing moisture build up and/or drying out your home
• Install a home ventilation system of some kind.
• Crack the windows a little during the day to allow a bit of cool air to flow through your home. North facing windows are best.
• Get a dehumidifier. Emptying this once a day (or more!) will really open your eyes to how much moisture is in your home. Remember the science though, you need to warm the air (and thus the moisture in it) before the dehumidifier can suck it in and remove it.
• Pop a DampRid moisture absorber container on the windowsill behind the curtains.
• Install a ShowerDome and extractor fan in the bathroom.
• Make sure your clothes dryer is vented to the outside.
• Install a rangehood in the kitchen and use lids on pots and pans.
• Change the curtain rail brackets to 80 or 100mm so the curtains are further from the walls and the windows allowing for more air circulation. Bear in mind however, this will likely lower their thermal insulating capabilities.
• Invest in double-glazing. Although this does not prevent mildew it can work to slow the onset.
• Minimise what mould growth feeds on. Clean soft furnishings regularly, clean windows and wipe down window surrounds with warm soapy water.
Check plumbing for leaks.
• Maintaining an even inside temperature throughout the house helps stop moist air from condensing.
• Insulate well. Start with the ceilings and under floor as a priority, then the walls.
• Close curtains/blinds as soon as the sun goes down.
Don’t worry if it’s too late - Curtain Clean can treat and remove mould and mildew from your curtains. Call us on 0800 579 0501 or visit curtainclean.co.nz to find out more.
Dirt, mould, and other grimy residue can build up inside your washer over time. Learn how to clean a washing machine, including front-loading and top-loading machines, to get your laundry as clean as possible.
Your washing machine’s main job is to clean your clothes, but did you know you should … View moreDirt, mould, and other grimy residue can build up inside your washer over time. Learn how to clean a washing machine, including front-loading and top-loading machines, to get your laundry as clean as possible.
Your washing machine’s main job is to clean your clothes, but did you know you should clean your washing machine at least once a month? With just a few supplies you can easily clean your washing machine to keep it looking and smelling like new.
The dirt that disappears from your clothes, towels, and sheets has to go somewhere, which means grime can build up inside your washing machine over time. Without regular cleaning, the appliance might also harbour leftover detergent, hard-water deposits, and mould or mildew around the lid. This can leave a residue on laundry or cause items to emerge from the wash with a funky smell. To ensure your freshly washed clothes and linens are as clean as possible, follow these steps on how to clean a washing machine once a month. These instructions work for cleaning front-loading and top-loading washing machines, but there are a few special considerations for both types.
If your washing machine has a self-clean function, choose that cycle and follow the manufacturer's instructions to clean the inside of the machine. Otherwise, you can use this simple, three-step process to eliminate build-up in washing machine hoses and pipes and ensure your clothes stay fresh and clean.
Step 1: Run a Hot Cycle with Vinegar
Run an empty, regular cycle on hot, using two cups of white vinegar instead of detergent. Add the vinegar to the detergent dispenser. (Don't worry about harming your machine, as white vinegar will not damage clothes.) The hot water-vinegar combo removes and prevents bacteria growth. Vinegar can also act as a deodorizer and cut through mildew odours.
Step 2: Scrub the Inside and Outside of the Washing Machine
In a bucket or nearby sink, mix about 1/4 cup vinegar with a quart of warm water. Use this mixture, plus a sponge and dedicated toothbrush, to clean the inside of the machine. Pay special attention to dispensers for fabric softener or soap, the inside of the door, and around the door opening. If your soap dispenser is removable, soak it in the vinegar water before scrubbing. Give the machine's exterior a wipe down, too.
Step 3: Run a Second Hot Cycle
Run one more empty, regular cycle on hot, without detergent or vinegar. If desired, add 1/2 cup baking soda to the drum to help clear away build-up loosened from the first cycle. After the cycle is complete, wipe out the inside of the drum with a microfiber cloth to remove any remaining residue.
Keep reading: www.curtainclean.co.nz...
Dear neighbours,
You have just a few more days to send your entries for our Houseplant Hero competition. You could win some great prizes and of course, more houseplanst!
Happy Matariki 2022!
It's a time to celebrate new life, to remember those who’ve passed, and to plan for the future. Matariki is a time to spend with whānau and friends – to enjoy kai (food), waiata (song), tākaro (games), and haka.
Want to give something back to your community? How about volunteering with Victim Support? We’re recruiting new volunteers in your neighbourhood now.
Volunteer Support Workers come from all walks of life, just like those who need our help. They make an incredible difference by providing … View moreWant to give something back to your community? How about volunteering with Victim Support? We’re recruiting new volunteers in your neighbourhood now.
Volunteer Support Workers come from all walks of life, just like those who need our help. They make an incredible difference by providing support and information for people affected by crime and trauma. Volunteers receive comprehensive training and support from our locally based staff.
Check out our website for more information or call us on 0800 volunteer - 0800 86 58 68.
Certified translations of all documents, such as birth, marriage and death certificates, apostille, driver licences, immigration documents, etc. Experienced online and face-to-face interpreters for any event. Call now or visit our website at: www.globaltranslations.co.nz...
Quite a list this week!
Broccoli
Cabbage
Carrots
Butternut Pumpkin
Onion
Banana
… View moreQuite a list this week!
Broccoli
Cabbage
Carrots
Butternut Pumpkin
Onion
Banana
Kiwifruit
Apple Pacific Queen
Orders cost a standard $15. You can order and pay via internet banking, payment details are in the document attached. Orders need to be placed before Tuesday 12 noon ready for collection Thursday morning from your chosen pick up point. Pick up location options can also be found in the document. Remember to bring some bags!
The Vege Hub Team
Hi everyone, just want to let you know about a really neat place called The Rusty Radiator. It's a lovely little cafe in Halcombe. Great atmosphere, fantastic customer service and nice food. Check it out sometime 😊🍰🥤🍔🍟🥪🍩🧁☕
1900s Quelph Ontario Canada musical instrument. Dunedin origin bought in Greymouth. Original condition, needs some TLC but for enthusiast time well-spent. Has a good condition front board, no borer, keys intact. Historic musical instrument not to be repeated for generations to come, much used in … View more1900s Quelph Ontario Canada musical instrument. Dunedin origin bought in Greymouth. Original condition, needs some TLC but for enthusiast time well-spent. Has a good condition front board, no borer, keys intact. Historic musical instrument not to be repeated for generations to come, much used in churches. Nostalgia at your fingertips! Buyer pick up.
Brand New and still in the box.
Size : US 5 1/2
Bought for $200 but will take $120.
Our House of the Week this week is located on Feilding's prestigious Pharazyn Street. It is the perfect family sanctuary, with a focus on entertaining and luxury. This near-new four bedroom home is for sale through John and Michelle van Lienen from Sotheby's. Read more about it in … View moreOur House of the Week this week is located on Feilding's prestigious Pharazyn Street. It is the perfect family sanctuary, with a focus on entertaining and luxury. This near-new four bedroom home is for sale through John and Michelle van Lienen from Sotheby's. Read more about it in today's edition of Homed!
Looking for an agent to market your home?
Check Homed Manawatū to find agents who are actively marketing in your area and chat to them about getting your property featured in the Homed Manawatū.
Distribution & Delivery:
Homed Manawatū gets delivered to letterboxes on a Thursday, and also inserted into the Manawatū Standard, delivered to subscribers, and is available in Supermarkets, Dairies and Petrol Stations for customers to buy
For more information:
Please ask your agent to contact Karen Baker on 021 973 105 or karen.baker@stuff.co.nz
Not receiving your weekly delivery?
Please phone 0800 339000 or e mail distribution@stuff.co.nz
Large 6.5 litre Zip slow cooker. Ceramic removal dish which can be used as serving dish. Cool touch side handles. Plastic original knob on lid broke after 3 years but have replaced with good wooden knob as per photo. Great slow cooker. Reduced household now so just too big.
Used sunbeam coffee grinder. 25 different grinder settings, conical burr. Reliable little machine. Never had a problem with it. Surplus to us now.
Cut crystal glasses - brought for us as antique gift - no longer use. No chips or cracks.
Our House of the Week this week is a three-bedroom family home on No1 Line, perfectly positioned for buyers who want a country lifestyle close to the city. For sale through Arend Renting from Harcourts. Read about it in this weeks edition of of Homed.
Looking for an agent to market your home?
… View moreOur House of the Week this week is a three-bedroom family home on No1 Line, perfectly positioned for buyers who want a country lifestyle close to the city. For sale through Arend Renting from Harcourts. Read about it in this weeks edition of of Homed.
Looking for an agent to market your home?
Check Homed Manawatū to find agents who are actively marketing in your area and chat to them about getting your property featured in the Homed Manawatū.
Distribution & Delivery:
Homed Manawatū gets delivered to letterboxes on a Thursday, and also inserted into the Manawatū Standard, delivered to subscribers, and is available in Supermarkets, Dairies and Petrol Stations for customers to buy.
For more information:
Please ask your agent to contact Karen Baker on 021 973 105 or karen.baker@stuff.co.nz
Not receiving your weekly delivery?
Please phone 0800 339000 or e mail distribution@stuff.co.nz
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