The unexpected 54p item in your home that banishes mould in 30 minutes thanks to ‘paste’ hack

WITH Scots urged to prepare for snow and freezing temperatures in the coming weeks, many homeowners will have to deal with pesky mould and condensation. It is a common problem in homes across the country - especially during the winter months. But it can be very difficult to get rid of and if it's left untreated it can be dangerous to our health. This is because dampness can actually lead to certain types of mould to develop in the home.

And it doesn't just grow on your walls and surfaces - it can easily spread to your clothes as well. It can spread to fabrics that are left damp for extended periods - for example, clothes left on an airer - as this creates the perfect environment for mould spores to grow. But before you go throwing out your beloved outfits if it does get into your clothes, there is a way to save them. One laundry expert has revealed that there is an unexpected 54p item in your home that could banish it from your clothes.

Deyan Dimitrov, CEO of Laundryheap, shared their handy 'paste hack' that can rid of mould in just 30 minutes. And all you need is some water and a few Aspirin tablets. The laundry pro says that Aspirin contains acetylsalicylic acid, which helps get rid of mould spores that get stuck in clothes. All you need to do is take five tablets, crush them up, and then mix this with water to create a paste. You can then spread this paste over the mould spots on the fabric and leave it sitting for half an hour before popping it into your normal wash.

Deyan explains: "When it comes to stubborn stains and pesky mould in laundry, you don’t need to spend a fortune on expensive removers. "In fact, the solution might already be in your medicine cabinet - Aspirin. "Aspirin contains acetylsalicylic acid, which helps break down stains, brighten whites, and even tackle mould spores lurking in fabric. "It’s a game-changer for anyone dealing with yellowed shirts, sweat stains, or mildew odours on towels.

"And best of all, Aspirin is budget-friendly at just 54p a pack, making it a cheap alternative to costly stain removers. "It’s also eco-friendly, free from harsh chemicals or artificial whiteners, and gentle on fabrics, unlike bleach, which can weaken fibres. "Aspiring is great for removing mildew from clothes, curtains, and even washing machines. "Just crush five Aspirin tablets and mix them with water to create a paste.

ONE expert has revaled that we could be damaging our sofas during the colder months - and it's bad news if it's placed in front of a radiator. She said: “During the colder months, it’s inevitable that heating usage will increase. However, depending on where the sofa is placed, this winter habit could lead to damage. "Those with their settee placed directly in front of a radiator could experience upholstery damage, as prolonged exposure to heat can lead to colour fading and deterioration. This exposure can make the upholstery vulnerable and prone to wear and tear.

“Excessive exposure to heat can also cause the upholstery to shrink and sag over time, resulting in a worn-out appearance. Colour fading can particularly affect leather sofas, hindering their appearance and leading to deterioration. “It’s also important to note that different materials react uniquely to heat exposure. While leather may fade and crack, synthetic fabrics can melt or warp, so understanding how your upholstery responds to prolonged heat is key to protecting its longevity.

“Placing a sofa too close to a radiator can also obstruct airflow, reducing the efficiency of your heating system. This not only leads to uneven room temperatures but also causes your heating system to work harder, potentially increasing your energy bills. “Another risk to consider is condensation. In spaces with limited ventilation, positioning furniture too near a heat source can trap moisture and cause condensation behind the sofa, which could result in mould growth. This can damage both your sofa and the surrounding walls.

"While heat exposure can damage your upholstery, it’s also important to keep fire safety in mind. Certain fabrics or padding materials can become a fire hazard when placed too close to radiators, so ensuring a safe distance between your furniture and heat sources is about more than just preservation—it’s essential for protecting your home. “If moving your sofa isn’t an option, consider using alternatives like heat shields, reflective panels, or radiator covers. These can help safeguard your furniture and improve heat distribution throughout the room, ensuring comfort and protection during the colder months.".

"You can add white vinegar or lemon juice for an extra boost. "Apply the paste to affected areas, leave for 30 minutes, then wash as usual. "You can also add dissolved Aspirin to your detergent drawer to deep-clean your machine.". Deyan also explained that this trick is great for getting stains out of clothes as well as mould. They added: "For a stain-removing boost, crush five to six Aspirin tablets (make sure they are uncoated) and dissolve them in a bowl of warm water.