With the severe 2025 flooding in Queensland, particularly in Ingham, Townsville, and surrounding areas, many homeowners are facing the challenge of excess moisture and mould growth. The combination of high humidity, heat, and stagnant water creates the perfect conditions for mould, which can damage homes, belongings, and health.
Mould exposure can trigger asthma symptoms, coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and even more severe health effects like fatigue, muscle aches, and persistent illness. Preventing and eliminating mould as early as possible is crucial for maintaining a safe and healthy indoor environment.
Excess moisture can be removed through a number of different ways such as improved ventilation and the employment of dehumidifiers and improved ventilation, among other tactics.
If your home has been affected by flooding or prolonged damp conditions, follow these expert-backed steps to prevent and remove mould before it spreads.
1. Remove excess water and moisture immediately
Act fast—mould can start growing within 24-48 hours of a flood.
- Pump out standing water: Use a wet vacuum, mop, or pump to remove water from floors and carpets.
- Improve ventilation: Open all doors and windows to let fresh air circulate and speed up the drying process.
- Use dehumidifiers and fans: Ionmax dehumidifiers are effective in pulling moisture from the air, reducing humidity, and preventing mould growth.
“Reducing the amount of moisture in a house is the best way to control mould growth. After wet weather conditions, do a thorough clean and open all the doors and windows to dry out the area as quickly as possible,” Adam Trumble, Manager of the National Asthma Council’s (NACA) Sensitive Choice® Program, said in a media release addressing the mould health hazard in Australia.
“If you can, use fans or dehumidifiers to speed up the process,” Mr Trumble added.
EXPLORE: Ionmax dehumidifiers for mould control
2. Remove and dispose of flood-damaged materials
Some materials trap moisture and can become breeding grounds for mould and bacteria. It’s crucial to remove anything that cannot be fully dried.
- Remove water-damaged items: Discard soaked carpets, insulation, wallpaper, and soft furnishings that can’t be salvaged.
- Inspect walls and flooring: Plasterboard, timber, and flooring may need to be stripped out or replaced if heavily waterlogged.
- Check hidden damp areas: Mould can grow behind furniture, under carpets, and inside cupboards.
Dr Cameron L. Jones, Microbiologist:
“Wet building materials create the perfect conditions for bacterial, yeast, and fungal growth."
3. Clean and disinfect all surfaces
Once affected materials are removed, deep cleaning is necessary to eliminate mould spores.
- Vacuum with a HEPA filter: Removes mould spores, dust, and debris that may have settled.
- Scrub all surfaces: Use a vinegar (4:1 water-to-vinegar ratio) or bleach solution (at least 10% concentration) to clean walls, floors, and hard surfaces.
- Dry everything thoroughly: Leave surfaces to dry completely before replacing furniture or materials.
CHOICE, Australia’s leading consumer advocacy group, recommends:
“Thorough scrubbing with vinegar or bleach is essential to prevent mould from spreading.”
4. Dry out your home completely
Dr Jones says:
“Even after the floodwater has gone, chronic dampness in the walls can still facilitate mould growth,”
Even after visible water is gone, moisture lingers in walls, floors, and furniture. Proper drying is critical.
- Use dehumidifiers: Ionmax dehumidifiers efficiently extract excess moisture from the air to speed up drying.
- Increase airflow: Position fans, heaters, and open windows to circulate dry air.
- Monitor humidity: Mould thrives in humidity above 70%. Keep your home below 60% RH to prevent regrowth.
5. Prevent future mould growth
Mould can return if long-term preventative measures aren’t taken. Here’s how to keep it from coming back:
- ✅ Fix leaks immediately – Address plumbing issues and structural damage that could lead to future moisture problems.
- ✅ Ensure proper ventilation – Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to reduce indoor humidity.
- ✅ Monitor humidity levels – A hygrometer can help track indoor moisture levels.
- ✅ Use dehumidifiers regularly – An Ionmax dehumidifier helps maintain optimal humidity levels and prevent damp conditions.
- ✅ Reduce organic materials indoors – Indoor pot plants, compost heaps, and damp wood can all encourage mould growth.
READ MORE: How dehumidifiers get rid of mould
Take action now to prevent mould
Mould after flooding is a serious problem that needs to be addressed immediately. The key steps to preventing mould are:
- ✅ Removing water quickly
- ✅ Discarding unsalvageable materials
- ✅ Cleaning and disinfecting thoroughly
- ✅ Drying everything out properly
- ✅ Controlling humidity with dehumidifiers
By acting fast and following these expert-backed steps, you can protect your home and your health from the dangers of mould. Stay safe and take control of your indoor environment today! 🚀
View these dehumidifiers to help with moisture damage.
