Mould can be a very annoying issue - but this hack stops it growing.13:10, 10 Jul 2026Mould is a frustratingly common problem in homes across the UK, with dampness lurking in all manner of unexpected spots. One particularly troublesome area is inside wardrobes, where, if left unchecked, mould spores can take hold on clothes and shoes, causing lasting damage.‌To help households tackle mould growth head-on, cleaning enthusiast and TikToker Chantel Mila, known as Mama Mila, has revealed a surprising hack to keep moisture at bay. If you don't own a dehumidifier, you can help stop moisture turning into mould by placing just two items inside your wardrobe.‌She described it as a trick everyone should know, but "no one ever teaches you".‌How to prevent mould growth in wardrobesChantel urged her followers to "work smarter, not harder" when it comes to keeping the home clean. Mould flourishes in wardrobes due to a combination of dampness, poor air circulation, and organic material, reports the Express.It tends to take hold in areas with high humidity, condensation on cold surfaces, and where damp clothing creates the ideal conditions for mould spores to multiply — spreading to clothes, walls, and shelving alike.‌While many households would reach straight for a dehumidifier, Chantel has recommended a handy home remedy that should help absorb excess moisture before it has the chance to develop into mould.Content cannot be displayed without consentIn her recent video, Chantel suggested using uncooked rice. She placed uncooked rice inside a fabric drawstring bag, along with a dash of lemon oil, to effectively draw out moisture.‌Rice is a natural desiccant, meaning it draws moisture from the air and surrounding materials, helping to keep its environment dry. Adding a drop of lemon oil into the mix also works wonders for keeping wardrobes smelling clean and fresh.DIY expert Tim Warren from Adkwik told Ideal Home that the ideal humidity level inside wardrobes should sit somewhere between 40 and 60%.While he recommended investing in a dehumidifier as the most effective solution, desiccants are a perfectly viable alternative, as they work by pulling excess moisture straight out of the air.Article continues belowThis is precisely why rice proves so effective.Baking soda is another well-known desiccant that does a similarly impressive job.He said: "Placing these in your wardrobe can help to keep the air dry, reducing the risk of mould growth. You can also buy artificial moisture-absorbing desiccants, such as silica gel packets or charcoal bags."