Beat the Mould: Smart Strategies for a Mould-Free Life in Bali

Bali might be a slice of paradise, but this tropical haven isn’t just a dream for tourists—it's also a breeding ground for mould, especially during the rainy season.

If you find your old passport covered in mould, don’t see it as a sign from the universe to abandon your roots; think of it as nature’s nudge reminding you it's time to tackle the mould issue. Consider it a call to action for cleaning and prevention!

This article will guide you through the best ways to fight mould, keep your home fresh, and protect your health so you can continue to enjoy Bali's beauty without the mouldy hassles.

Living in a mould-infested environment poses significant health risks. As mould grows, it releases toxic substances that can damage your lungs, intestines, skin, and reproductive system. Mould spores can also trigger respiratory illnesses and allergies.

If you’ve had a persistent cough or runny nose for more than two weeks, despite taking medication like antibiotics, you might have a mould allergy. Check all surfaces in your home carefully, including the back of cabinets and under your bed. If you find mould, remove it immediately.

Another approach is to spend a few days elsewhere or limit your time at home to see if your symptoms improve. If your symptoms go away while you’re away from home or if taking an antihistamine helps, mould or dust in your home could be the cause of your respiratory issues.

Mould can also damage your belongings. Thriving in damp, warm environments, it can penetrate and destroy various materials. While it might be less concerning if mould ruins an old t-shirt, it’s much more distressing if it damages something valuable, like a camera lens.

For those living in Ubud, the battle against mould is particularly fierce. Mould thrives in the humid environment, meaning you could place your trainers in a closet and find them covered in mould within a week.

Those living near the ocean might have it easier, as better ventilation helps keep mould at bay. However, it’s still important to stay vigilant.

1. Regulate Your Home’s Microclimate:  

Ensure proper ventilation and use an air conditioner in dehumidifying mode. Store your most valuable items in the room where the air conditioner is used most frequently.

2. Buy a Dehumidifier:  

Purchase a Serap Air dehumidifier from stores like Nirmala, Ace Hardware, or Pepito. If you can’t find one in local stores, order it from Tokopedia.

Serap Air usually comes in a packet filled with moisture-absorbing granules. The packet is placed in a plastic container with a ventilated lid. The granules absorb moisture from the air, which then collects at the bottom of the container. Regularly drain the water and replace the granules to keep the dehumidifier functioning, with refills also available for purchase.

While a dehumidifier helps protect your belongings, an air conditioner is generally more effective.

3. Keep Poorly Ventilated Spaces Fresh:  

Don’t close your wardrobe with clothes inside; allow air to circulate and frequently take your clothes out to dry. Ensure clothes are completely dry before storing them to avoid the growth of mould. For best results, hang clothes on an open rail instead of keeping them enclosed in a wardrobe.

4. Store Unused Items Properly:  

If you don’t plan on using certain items for more than two weeks, store them in airtight plastic boxes or bags with a dehumidifier inside. Place the dehumidifier container in the box and close it. When buying boxes, choose larger ones to fit both the items and the dehumidifier. Some people even use diapers or sanitary pads as a substitute for a dehumidifier.  

Check the dehumidifier every week or two. If water has collected at the bottom, pour it out. If the granules have clumped together or dissolved, buy new ones and refill the container. You can rinse and reuse the plastic box.

5. Protect Electronic Equipment:  

Consider investing in special dry cabinets for your electronic equipment. If your equipment is expensive, this investment will be well worth it.

6. Avoid Placing Furniture Directly Against Walls:  

Placing furniture too close to walls can lead to mould growth where the surfaces meet.

7. Regular Cleaning Routine:  

Regularly clean surfaces that are prone to mould, such as bathroom tiles and kitchen counters. Use mould-fighting cleaners or natural solutions like vinegar and baking soda.

8. Monitor Humidity Levels:  

Invest in a hygrometer to monitor indoor humidity levels. Aim to keep humidity below 60%. If your home consistently exceeds this level, take additional measures to reduce moisture.

9. Fix Leaks Promptly:  

Address any plumbing or roof leaks as soon as they occur. Mould thrives in wet conditions, so repairing leaks quickly can prevent mould from developing.

10. Use Mould-Resistant Products:  

When renovating or decorating, use mould-resistant paints, drywall, and insulation. These products are designed to reduce mould growth.

11. Improve Indoor Air Quality:  

Use air purifiers with HEPA filters to help remove mould spores from the air. Keeping the air quality in your home as clean as possible can reduce the chances of mould growth.

12. Clean and Maintain Air Conditioners:  

Ensure that air conditioners in your home are clean and well-maintained. Replace filters regularly and consider using air purifiers with HEPA filters to reduce mould spores in the air.

13. Educate Yourself on Local Mould Strains:  

Research common types of mould in your area. Understanding local mould strains can help you identify specific issues and apply targeted solutions.

Clothes that have been worn but not washed are more prone to mould. Don’t delay laundry—only freshly cleaned clothes stay mould-free!

Avoid using naphthalene for drying clothes. Though it may be found with other desiccants in stores, naphthalene is harmful to your health.

Black spots on white clothes washed by hand could indicate poor water quality, which fosters black mould. If you notice these spots, have your clothes cleaned at a laundromat. Persistent spots after laundromat cleaning might mean a faulty washing machine filter. Look for a different laundry service.

Mould on walls often means repairs are needed. In Indonesia, some homes may not meet construction standards, leading to poor ventilation and mold growth, especially if walls are too close together.

Mould issues in rental properties can be persistent. Severe cases might require more than just painting over the problem. In extreme cases, even stripping paint, applying antifungal treatments, and repainting might not be enough—demolition could be necessary.

When choosing a rental, check how well-ventilated the rooms are and if there is any musty smell. Be wary of promises from the owner or agent about fixing visible mould “tomorrow”—Indonesian “tomorrow” may not be as timely as expected.

If mould has already invaded your life, don't despair—there’s still hope.

For cleaning ceramics and glass, use regular bleach. Sodium hypochlorite, the active ingredient in bleach, effectively kills mold and its spores. It's effective on tiles and glass, but be cautious as bleach releases strong, toxic fumes and can irritate your skin. Always wear rubber gloves and work in a well-ventilated area. Mix 1 part bleach with 10 parts water for cleaning, and ensure the area is well-ventilated after treatment.

In Indonesia, bleach is sold under brands like Bayclin and Proclin. Don’t be swayed by the various fragrances—whether it’s “invigorating fresh,” “refreshing lemon,” or the classic “Bayclin blue,” chlorine is still chlorine.

Ask for Pemutih (bleach) at the store. You can find it in various bottle sizes at supermarkets like Nirmala, Carrefour, Hardy’s, and Pepito. Avoid using bleach on coloured surfaces to prevent discoloration.

1. Start with a concentrated soapy solution. Rub the stains with soap and soak the garment in the soapy water for half an hour. Wash the stained areas again, then rinse.

2. Didn’t work? Level up! Add 1 tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide to 0.5 litters of water. You can find hydrogen peroxide in pharmacies under the name hidrogen peroksida. Use a 3% solution to wipe items, or dilute a stronger solution to 3%. Soak the washed item in this mixture, then rinse thoroughly.

3. If the methods in steps 1 and 2 don’t remove the mouldy stains, try using bleach. Bleach can be effective for white clothes, but use it cautiously. Leaving bleach on fabric too long can weaken the material, leading to tears—not in a cool, edgy way, but in a way that might leave you embarrassed, like Cinderella’s dress splitting at the wrong moment. Never use bleach on coloured items. After bleaching, rinse the garment thoroughly.

4. Tough stains? For severe cases where the fibres aren’t yet rotting, boiling with bleach might be your last resort. Add a tablespoon of bleach to 0.5 litters of water and submerge the item in the boiling solution. Monitor the process closely. Once the stains are gone, remove the item from the water after 10-15 minutes.

If this still doesn’t do the trick, it might be time to let go. After all, you didn’t come to Bali just for material things. Everything here is temporary—except for truth and goodness. So, letting go of that beautiful floor-length white dress by Magali Pascal might become a bit easier to accept.

If you want to restore clothing with designs you love, try these methods:

1. Vinegar or Lemon Juice Treatment: Apply vinegar or lemon juice to the affected area and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, sprinkle the area with table salt. After the fabric is completely dry, wash it in a warm solution of soap or detergent.

2. Baking Soda Soak: To tackle mould and its smell, soak the item in a baking soda solution. Mix 200 grams of baking soda with 4 litters of warm water and let the laundry soak.

3. Salt Solution for Linen: Clean mould from linen by using a salt solution. Mix 2 tablespoons of salt in 1 litter of water, boil for about 30 minutes, and apply the solution to the mouldy area. Let it sit, then wash, rinse thoroughly, and dry.

4. Stain and Odour Removal: For old stains and mould odours, try using "Vanish" for coloured clothes or an oxygen-based stain remover like Oxy Magic. Apply to the stain and leave it overnight. By morning, the stains and odours should be gone.

To tackle mould on cotton shirts and bedding, try using onion juice or buttermilk:

1. Onion Juice: Rub the affected areas with a cut onion several times. Then, wash the item in warm water.

2. Buttermilk: Soak the items in buttermilk for 12 hours, then wash as usual. If you don't have buttermilk, you can make it at home and by letting your milk sit in the sun!

After treating and drying the items, place them in direct sunlight to further dry and sanitize. Avoid laying them directly on the ground, as the soil absorbs moisture. Instead, place them on a smooth surface. If left in the sun for a full day, the items may become mould-free and stay that way for several weeks.

Wardrobes, nightstands, and beds can also be affected by mould, especially if they’re close to the floor. Use a dehumidifier to maintain a balanced environment and avoid direct contact with walls. Regular cleaning with mould-fighting agents will help keep furniture in good condition.

1. White Vinegar is a mild acid that effectively kills many common types of mould. Unlike bleach, it doesn’t release harmful fumes or damage the colour of your furniture.

To use vinegar, apply it to mouldy surfaces with a spray bottle or a damp cloth. After an hour, rinse the area with water and ventilate the room. For ongoing mould prevention, spray vinegar on problem areas once a week.

Vinegar is available in grocery stores and is very affordable. Look for it under the name "cuka."

2. Baking Soda is a natural and safe cleaner that combats fungi. It’s especially useful for families with young children who want to avoid harsh chemicals. Dissolve a teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water and spray it on the mouldy surface, or use a sponge dipped in the solution to clean surfaces and items. It’s better not to rinse off all the baking soda, as it helps prevent future mould growth.

After cleaning with vinegar or baking soda, make sure to dry the item thoroughly. To tackle any lingering odours, hang air freshener sachets in the cleaned closet. This will help keep unpleasant smells away for a longer time.

Mould in Bali is an inevitable challenge, but with proactive measures and regular maintenance, you can keep it under control. By investing in dehumidifiers, maintaining proper ventilation, and cleaning affected areas well, you can protect your health and belongings while enjoying your time in this beautiful island paradise. Remember, staying ahead of mould means staying healthy and preserving your home for years to come.