Prevent black mould on windows with 9p kitchen staple loved by Mrs Hinch fans

Unsightly mould appears when moisture builds up inside windows (Image: Getty)

During the winter months, it's not uncommon to see a bit of mould forming around doors and windows, especially in older homes.

With the heating on and the windows closed to keep extra warmth in, the indoor air gets a little more humid, which can lead to condensation on the glass.

This extra moisture can create the perfect conditions for mould to make its presence known, especially in rooms with less ventilation.

While mould may initially seem like something to worry about, it can be cleaned away pretty easily even without the need for harsh chemicals.

But being a common problem, worried Brits took to the Mrs Hinch Cleaning Tips Facebook page to ask for cleaning advice from fellow householders on how to prevent mould from reappearing.

Salt helps to soak up the moisture in the air (Image: Getty)

An anonymous participant asked: "Wondering if anyone could help please, been in our new house just over a year so this is all new to me but my partner noticed mould round our kitchen window and a couple of dots on the actual windows?"

They added: "He cleaned it but it’s came back now… now we have just noticed mould around our kitchen door too. I have a little boy and due another baby in 4 weeks and I’m sure I’ve read mould can be quite harmful — does anyone have any tips on how to get rid of it for good please?"

Fellow group members were quick to respond, suggesting various methods including the addition of one very simple and affordable cupboard staple.

Eliza Bennet commented: "Cup of salt by windows to absorb moisture ventilate well, open windows after showering, cooking and drying washing — anything that adds moisture to the air."

Condensation can cause mould to form around windows (Image: Getty)

Julie Richardson added: "I also put dishes of salt on the kitchen window ledge in the winter."

Many comments also noted that a cleaner would need to be used to remove the mould in the first place, but that salt could help to prevent the mould patches from returning.

How to prevent mould using salt

Salt helps stop mould by soaking up moisture, which mould needs to grow. When you put salt on or near mould, it dries out the area, making it harder for the mould to spread. Similar to baking soda it can bind to the moisture present by windows.

Salt also has natural properties that can kill mould spores, meaning you can tackle smaller areas of mould without using harsh chemicals.

While it’s not as powerful as some mould removers, it’s a simple, natural way to help keep your windows free from unsightly mould.

Many households already probably already have salt in their cupboards, and if not, table salt can be purchased for as little as 65p for 750g.

Britons are recommended to use around 100g at a time, meaning this hack could cost as little as 9p per use.

Alternative natural mould cleaning methods shared in the Mrs Hinch fan page include using washing up liquid, baking soda or vinegar.

Member Sue Raven explained: "Put some white vinegar in a bottle with water and spray on the mould, leave it and it should wipe off. If it doesn’t, you may need something stronger."

Others suggested mixing baking soda into water in a 50:50 ratio to form a paste before placing it on the target and leaving it for an hour.