Mold can easily occur in your bathroom, and it tends to grow around plumbing fixtures and wet surfaces. Mold should be a cause for alarm as it can cause respiratory issues when inhaled. Getting rid of mould in the bathroom can be challenging, especially since the area is wet most of the time. However, understanding what causes mould to grow in your bathroom can help you take preventive measures and protect your family. Read on for more insight.
Causes of mould growth in the bathroom
Mold is attracted to wet areas, and that is why it tends to grow in the bathroom. Some practices and conditions in your bathroom can increase the chances of mould growth and expose your family to its harmful spores. These include the following:
- Poor ventilation which prevents moisture from escaping from the bathroom.
- Leaking plumbing fixtures which cause mould to grow on the walls, floors, and under bathroom mats.
- Failure to remove wet clothes, curtains, and towels from the bathroom after taking a shower.
- Leaving surfaces such as the bathroom floor, sinks, and wallpaper wet after taking a shower.
These are the leading causes if mould growth in most bathrooms. Luckily, you can maintain a clean and hygienic space by taking the following measures.
Fix plumbing leaks
Plumbing leaks increase utility costs in the home, cause damage to drywall and paint, and make your bathroom unhealthy. Inspect your bathroom fixtures and pipes, and take note of any leaking ones. They should be repaired by a professional plumber to prevent further damage and mould growth. If you notice a leak, try to contain it within a small area before the plumber arrives. You can do this by wrapping a towel around the leaking part of the fixture.
Provide adequate ventilation
Ventilation allows a flow of air into the bathroom and reduces moisture which can facilitate mould growth. Ensure that the bathroom has sufficient ventilation in the form of windows and air vents. You can install a ventilation system or additional windows during your next bathroom remodelling project. Also, make sure that you leave the windows open after taking a shower to let out the warm moist air.
Dry any wet surfaces
Try to keep your bathroom as dry as possible, especially when it is not in use. Wash your towels and other bathroom fabrics regularly so that they don't remain damp. Invest in an absorbent floor mat to avoid leaving a wet rug in the bathroom after a shower. Also, wipe down your shampoos and soaps before leaving them in the bathroom to prevent mould from growing underneath them
Follow these tips to keep mould out of your bathroom and maintain a healthy space. Contact a plumber for regular checks or an emergency plumber, such as those found at Sam's Local Plumbing, for urgent problems.
