As we all know damp is an ever occurring problem for properties across the UK. In this article, we will discuss what leads to dampness occurring in your wardrobe and how it can be stopped. We will also explain the differences between how damp affects a fitted wardrobe and a free-standing wardrobe.
So, why do wardrobes become damp? The main reason is poor air circulation. When the air becomes trapped in the wardrobe it then settles on the surfaces inside of the wardrobe. When warm air condenses onto a cold surface then this is when the condensation process will start. When dampness builds up this can lead to mould forming on the surface.
How Does Damp Affect a Fitted or Free-Standing Wardrobe?
The first thing to consider when you have dampness in your wardrobe is what type of wardrobe you have. The two types of wardrobe commonly found in the UK are either a free standing or a fixed wardrobe. Both of these types of wardrobes can be affected with condensation as a result of poor ventilation.
As we have already explained, when air is trapped and not circulating it will lead to condensation becoming a problem in the wardrobe. A fitted wardrobe is more likely to succumb to damp related problems than a free-standing wardrobe. Free-standing wardrobes have the advantage that they can be moved and positioned away from the wall while fixed wardrobes cannot.
Free Standing Wardrobe
So, what small fixes can be done to sort out damp in a free standing wardrobe? In a majority of cases, you will see that damp and mould problems will occur at the back of the wardrobe. To help provide good air circulation, you can slightly move the wardrobe away from the wall.
By doing this it will help decrease the chances of warm air settling on the wall. When there is a gap between the wall and the wardrobe this will help warm up the wall meaning that the damp and mould are less likely to occur.
Fitted Wardrobe
Fitted wardrobes, unlike free standing wardrobes, cannot be moved and are usually bespoke and designed to fit a specific area. If the particular area that the wardrobe has been fitted into is cold in temperature, then condensation will again become a problem. A majority of fitted wardrobes only have a small space between them and the wall.
One solution to improve the temperature of the wall could be to paint it with a moisture resistant, insulating paint. This increases the temperature of the wall and reduces the chances of black mould forming on the surface. You could also add insulation behind the wardrobe to increase the temperature at the back of the wardrobe.
The combination of using an insulating paint and insulation will definitely improve the chances of damp and mould not becoming a problem in your wardrobe.
What Methods Can Be Used to Reduce Dampness in Your Wardrobe?
For condensation to form there are certain things that need to happen. The first, which we have already discussed, is there has to be a cold surface at the back of your wardrobe which will allow condensation to form.
Another reason that condensation occurs is as a result of excess moisture in the air. So, how can you reduce moisture in the air? This can be achieved through a number of solutions. One of the main solutions is by improving the ventilation which can be done simply by opening doors and windows in the room the wardrobe is in, this will allow the warm moisture laden air to escape.
Decreasing air humidity and improving air circulation can be achieved through a variety of methods. Using a dehumidifier is a good short-term solution to help reduce the amount of moisture in the air. Having a dehumidifier doesn’t put a stop to dampness but it is a good short term solution.
If you put clothes that are still wet on a radiator after washing then this is will provide the perfect conditions for mould to grow. We recommend that you let the clothes fully dry before putting them into the wardrobe.
You should also try and make sure that the wardrobe is not overfilled with clothes. If the wardrobes are packed full of clothes, then this will not allow the air to circulate making it again easy for dampness and mould problems to occur.
How Can We Help?
We hope this article has provided you with some handy tips on reducing dampness in wardrobes as no one likes the smell of musty clothes. As we have explained there are a number of simple changes you can carry out yourself to help reduce the chances of dampness and mould building up in your wardrobe.
While improving air circulation can be carried out by yourself, you may have other damp issues elsewhere in the property. If this is the case, then this is where our team at Timberwise can help.
We have many highly qualified surveyors across England and Wales who can carry out a comprehensive damp survey. The damp survey will involve inspecting all aspects of the property from what the damp problem is to where it is has originated from.
To book an inspection you can simply contact us on 0800 288 8660 or contact us online.
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