Cold and damp ceilings and other areas can become major trouble spots for mould growth, especially in homes with poor insulation.

Luckily, there are some natural solutions that can help you reduce moisture and protect your home from mould damage - and one of them likely already lives in your kitchen cupboard.

When it comes to removing existing mould, there are natural and effective solutions that won't damage your paintwork - a key concern for renters.

Ryan Calvert, product manager at Hiatt Hardware, recommended a couple of simple yet powerful methods for tackling mould on painted walls.

He said: “Natural cleaning solutions like vinegar or borax are the best options for removing mould from walls without damaging the paintwork, a key factor to consider for those who rent their home.

“The anti-fungal properties of borax make it an excellent natural cleaner.

“Mix one cup of borax powder with four litres of water and brush the solution into the affected areas, taking care not to spread it elsewhere. When finished, wipe up the borax solution and let it completely dry.”

For those who don’t have borax on hand, white vinegar can be an excellent alternative, as its acidity makes it inhospitable for mould to grow, and vinegar can clean up to 82 percent of mould species, the expert added.

To use vinegar, spray it directly onto the mouldy areas and leave it for about an hour. Then, wipe the surface with warm water and make sure to dry it thoroughly.

Keeping a pre-mixed bottle of vinegar or borax solution in a spray bottle can be a great way to always have a quick and natural remedy on hand for mould problems.

One effective strategy for prevention is to use thermal curtains and draught stoppers to help insulate your home and minimise the build-up of moisture on surfaces.

To further safeguard vulnerable areas, consider applying a mould-resistant paint to damp-prone walls, ceilings, and window sills.

While it may be more costly, this extra layer of protection helps block mould before it starts to grow, protecting homeowners and their loved ones from potential mould-related health risks.