Using non-chemicals to get rid of condensation marks

[Want-to-know]

We have some black marks from condensation on our painted bathroom and bedroom ceilings, which I would like to get rid of, prior to painting with a special anti-condensation paint.

However, I am nervous about using special anti-fungus chemicals or bleach. (We have had a ventilation system put into our bathroom and remedial treatment in our bedroom, which has cut the condensation down, but has not eleminated this problem completely. Living in a ground floor flat, we cannot leave our windows open 24x7.)

Can anybody recommend a method that I can use to clean these painted ceilings, prior to repainting, that is safe, non toxic and odourless, if possible?

Thanks.

[Want-to-know]

Thanks for your answer. I have never heard of sugar soap before. I presume you can get it from any DIY store?

[heathfield]

Yes.

[dance2trance]

Hi there

I guess you should know by now if your soloution to the problem has actually worked but I was not convinced by sugar soap alone. I had this very problem and the remedy was

1) rub surface down with sandpaper or such like.

2) apply anti fungicidal treatment (ask in a DIY store for one)

3) paint on and allow to dry out thoroughly ie leave it alone and reduce water usage ie showers nearby

4) apply primer

5) apply undercoat

6) apply top coat.

The thing is the black stain is actually fungus not just dried water. The anti fungicidal stuff is by its nature quite awful and stinks but it kills the bugs and it is worth the suffering. But if you have the problem anyway it points to water seeping in from somewhere. If you have the money get a proper builder in to find out just why (Mine was caused by water in pipes above) or do via property insurance.

Hope you get on OK

[Want-to-know]

Thank you dance2trance. I have actually just used the sugar soap in one room and painted over it with anti-condensation paint. Will see how that develops; if it is no good, then I will consider your suggestion.