Stopping Mould and Mildew in Cupboards
By Ruth MacEachern
Product Manager
Sep 16, 2025
Mould and mildew are unwelcome intruders in many homes, particularly when they find refuge in cupboards. Mould species thrive in enclosed environments, creating not only an unpleasant odour but also potential health hazards. Understanding why mould and mildew develop within cupboards can help you take steps to eliminate the problem and reduce the chance of the mould returning.
The root cause of mould is humidity and condensation
Humidity is an excess of moisture in the air and is affected by everyday activities such as cooking, taking a shower, or drying clothes indoors. When this moisture-laden air meets cool surfaces—such as the interior walls of cupboards—it condenses into water droplets. If the condensation is not removed, it will soak into the underlying material to create the damp patches that mould and mildew need to flourish.
Cupboards are particularly vulnerable because their enclosed spaces restrict airflow, leading to stagnant air and increased moisture retention. Items stored within cupboards can exacerbate the situation by trapping moisture, particularly if they are made of porous materials like wood or textiles. Without proper ventilation, these conditions provide an ideal breeding ground for mould spores to settle and multiply.
Where mould comes from
Mould growth begins when airborne spores land on damp surfaces. These microscopic spores are naturally present in the environment and are harmless in small quantities. However, when they encounter moisture and organic material like wood, paper, or fabric, they start to grow.
Once established, mould colonies can spread rapidly, releasing more spores into the air and creating a cycle of contamination.
Mildew, a specific type of mould, often appears as a white or grey powdery substance. It is typically found on surfaces that remain moist for extended periods. Both mould and mildew can cause damage to cupboards by weakening materials, staining surfaces, and creating an unpleasant environment. Furthermore, they can trigger respiratory problems and allergies for those living in the affected space.
How improved ventilation can help stop mould
To combat mould and mildew effectively, it is crucial to address their root cause: humidity and condensation.
EnviroVent specialises in ventilation systems designed to manage indoor air quality and reduce moisture levels, preventing the conditions that allow mould to thrive.
Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) systems such as EnviroVent ATMOS work by introducing filtered air into the home which displaces the moisture laden air to reduce humidity and condensation. The improved airflow in all rooms from a whole house ventilation system like PIV means that there is less opportunity for humidity to build up and allow for mould friendly conditions to develop.
Find out more
If you have discovered mould or mildew in the cupboards in your home and are concerned about the potential risks to your health, book a free home survey today to identify the sources of condensation. Our local specialist can visit your home and provide you with advice about the best way to reduce humidity using improved ventilation.
