Why the visible wall can stay clean
The open part of the wall receives heat from the room and moving air. Behind furniture, both are reduced. A sharp change in mould growth at the edge of a wardrobe is therefore useful evidence of a surface-condensation mechanism.
Check for an external problem as well
If the affected patch is directly opposite a leaking downpipe, cracked render or another defect, do not assume furniture is the whole explanation. Rain penetration can make the wall colder and wetter, increasing the likelihood of mould too.
Small changes can alter the surface conditions
Leaving a ventilation gap behind furniture, ensuring extract fans work and keeping a steadier background temperature can all help. The useful question is not simply “is the room ventilated?” but whether moisture is being removed where it is produced and whether cold surfaces are being left isolated.
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