Mould growth

[ReesP]

We have an Autocruise Accent built 2010 (panel van). Last winter, whilst in storage (not under cover) there was a growth of mould on the fabric panel walls of the rear section (bedroom). We were able to brush this off and afterwards left the roof vent in the bathroom half open. The mould growth did not reoccur.

 

This has never occurred previous years - and last year it was a wet winter. Was this the reason for the mould?

 

Has anyone else had to deal with mould growth of this type?

 

Rees Pryce, Cardiff

[Will86]

If the conditions are good, and yours space was, mould spores will travel in the atmosphere, establish themselves and grow anywhere.

[Derek Uzzell]

This Camping & Caravanning Club advice may be of interest

 

http://tinyurl.com/nefydbn

[StuartO]

I didn't find the C&CC advice all that clear.

 

Mould is a fungal growth.  The two ingredients necessary for mould to develop are moisture and a nutrient surface, which could be any surface contaminated with food or cooking materials or human or animal exfoliation) or an innately nutritious material such as woolen carpet or wallpaper.

 

MHs are usually lined with an impervious surface such as timber or boarding with a painted or plastic finish, so in order for mould to grow on it, contamination with food or cooking material is necessary.  Some MHs are lined with carpet or similar, which can host the growth of mould without food or skin debris being present if it is organic (eg wool) and has not been treated to be mould resistant and gets damp.

 

It follows that wiping down the internal walls and fittings, especially near the kitchen, with a degreasing/anti-bacterial solution should prevent mould, so a detergent solution (washing up liquid) with some bleach in it should do the trick.  Not sure about carpet linings but a wipe down with a mild bleach or disinfectant solution should help - but test somewhere inconspicuous first in case the colour is affected

 

Ventilation helps to prevent dampness accumulating, so ensure at least some air circulation.

 

[maggyd]

We have always used damp traps in all our vans empty them at least once a week and never have a problem , we have done this for years in caravans and motorhomers, leave all cupboards and doors open inside so the air can circulate.