Cleaning small areas of mould yourself

The government's guidance says most people can reasonably clean condensation and very small amounts of mould with a suitable product, as long as they wear protective equipment.

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Clean it, then fix the cause

Cleaning only removes what you can see. If the moisture isn't dealt with, the mould will come back. See what causes mould.

How to clean a small patch safely

Put on a mask that covers your nose and mouth, rubber gloves and goggles.
Shut the door to the room to stop spores spreading, and open the window.
Use a mould and mildew cleaning product, following the instructions on the label. The government’s guidance recommends these in preference to bleach.
Wipe the mould off gently with a cloth rather than brushing it, which can spread spores.
Dry the area thoroughly afterwards.
Put the cloth in a bag and throw it away, and wash the clothes you wore.
Keep the window open for a while after you finish.

Source: Understanding and addressing the health risks of damp and mould in the home, GOV.UK, updated 1 April 2026. Last reviewed September 2026.

When not to do it yourself

More than a small patch

The guidance says larger areas of mould should be dealt with by professionals.

It keeps coming back

That means there’s a cause to find: a failed fan, cold spot, leak or water getting in.

You’re at higher risk

For example if you have asthma or another breathing condition, a weakened immune system, or are pregnant. Ask someone else.

It’s in soft or porous materials

Mould in carpet, soft furnishings, plaster or wallpaper often means the material needs removing.

After a flood or dirty water

Anything soaked by floodwater or a sewage leak needs professional clean-up.

You rent

If the cause is the building, it’s normally your landlord’s job. Report it in writing first.