Eastern Australian hardware stores have been stripped bare of mould killer after an unprecedented run of wet weather. The scale of residents dealing with mould outbreaks can be seen at local hardware stores, with one Reddit user posting images of a store in Brisbane that had been completely cleared out of mould removal products.
While one fellow user commented that it may be another panic buying example, others weighed in, saying that it was likely to be common due to the widespread rain=fall and humid conditions.
Other users said that the absorbent packs commonly used in wardrobes to prevent dampness from accumulating had also been challenging to come by. One user reported a number of trips to various hardware stores only to be told they were all out of stock.
The Queensland Health Department has confirmed on its website that recent weather conditions are likely to “create an environment that is favourable to the growth of mould” and recommends store-bought mould killer as a solution.
The department has also noted that bleach isn’t an effective method of removing mould, stating: “The use of bleach may not be effective in killing mould on porous surfaces. However, bleach will help to minimise other disease-causing organisms that may be present because of contaminated floodwaters.”
A Bunnings representative said that while they “are currently experiencing strong demand for mould removal products in Queensland and New South Wales… we have good overall stock availability across our store network.”
“There may be times when some stores are temporarily low or out of stock on a particular item or brand but we are working closely with our suppliers to replenish as quickly as possible, and we generally have alternative product options available for customers.”