Mould thrives in damp and humid environments, so it’s no surprise that it is often found in the bathroom. Mould on bathroom ceilings, shower recesses and moulded bathroom sinks are among the first places to notice mould issues in a house. When left untreated mould can cause damage to a home.
Mould affects old and new homes alike. Mould forms spores that help spread it around a house. As mould grows in a home, it feeds off the material it grows on causing decay within a home. This means that not only does mould look bad and smell bad, but it can also cause significant damage to a home.
Homeowners need to stay vigilant and prevent mould. Mould is a serious problem when left unabated and can result in costly repairs and removals. Tenants and property managers can also be held responsible for mould damage depending on its cause. Given the bathroom is the one of the most susceptible areas to mould, it’s a good place to start looking for any signs of trouble.
The good news is that learning how to prevent mould in the bathroom doesn’t have to be an uphill battle. Preventing and removing mould in the bathroom is usually quite simple if you follow the right advice. Unwanted mould and mildew can be eradicated with ease if you follow our simple tips.
Causes of mould in bathroom
Mould can be caused by excess moisture, poor ventilation and lack of natural light. The bathroom naturally makes a perfect place for mould growth because of its indoor plumbing supply. Condensation from showers, faucets and bathtubs rises and settles on walls and ceilings. Leaky and dripping plumbing can also make it hard to keep areas dry. Closed windows, faulty fans and other forms of inadequate ventilation keep excess moisture trapped in bathrooms.
Where does mould grow in the bathroom?
Mould can grow just about anywhere and on just about anything given the conditions are right. If you’re worried about mould in your bathroom, here are some common areas to start looking:
Bathroom carpets, rugs or bathmats
Water gets trapped within the fabric of these items and they are often not dried properly providing a perfect place for mould to grow.
Shower curtains
Shower curtains are continually exposed to condensation and water and can remain damp without proper drying, making for ideal mould growth conditions.
Walls, windows and ceilings
Mould on bathroom ceilings and walls is a common problem. Condensation rises and often tracks up walls onto ceilings and windows.
Moulded bathroom sinks
Perhaps one of the most commonly mould affected areas in the bathroom is the sink. Don’t overlook moulded bathroom sinks.
Inside cabinets, walls or flooring
Water piping is hidden in these spaces, so any faulty or leaky plumbing means mould will flourish in these damp, dark and poorly ventilated areas.
Toothbrush holder
If mouldy toothbrushes are a common occurrence, then you need to make sure you dry your toothbrushes properly before placing them back.
Damp towels
Noticed a funky smell coming from your towel? Mould loves damp linens. Let your towels dry properly and don’t leave them in a cluttered pile.
Inside toilet bowl
An often neglected area during cleaning is the inside rim of your toilet. Mould thrives in the forgotten spots of your home.
How to prevent mould in the bathroom
Don’t let mould get out of hand. Unwanted mould and mildew can be eradicated with ease. Learn how to prevent mould in the bathroom with these simple tips:
Repair Leaks or Damage
A leaky tap, broken pipe or gap in a window seal or wall can cause excess moisture to seep into your bathroom and stimulate mould growth. If you are blighted with any of these problems, be sure to do the necessary repairs as soon as you can.
Improve Ventilation
Moisture accumulates in areas where there is no air movement, so if your bathroom does not have one already be sure to install a good ventilation system to help to stimulate airflow and remove steam generated by hot showers and baths. This is particularly important if your bathroom doesn’t have a window.
Remove Excess Water
Removing mould in the bathroom is less of a challenge if you keep excess water to a minimum. Moisture is a breeding ground for mould, so it is a good idea to use a sponge, cloth or towel to wick away water and soap scum from tiles and floors after you’ve had a shower or bath. Avoid air drying wet clothes in the bathroom too.
Improve Light
A dry, well lit room is a nightmare for mould, so maximise your bathroom’s exposure to natural light as much as you can. Make sure that windows aren’t covered by thick blinds or curtains, or, if your bathroom does not have a window, perhaps consider a skylight.
Keep it Clean
Mould thrives upon organic matter such as dead skin cells and dust, so remember to regularly wipe bathroom surfaces clean and vacuum or mop your bathroom floor. Likewise, be sure to keep toilets, cupboards and even toothbrush holders sanitary to ensure that mould or mildew isn’t allowed to grow.
Call in the professionals to prevent and remove bathroom mould
Understanding how to prevent mould in the bathroom can save you time, energy and money in the future. Identifying sources of excess moisture, allowing air and light into your bathroom are important first steps in your fight against mould.
However, if mould covers a large area of your bathroom or you are having difficulty taking care of it yourself, we can help! Mould Removal Australia delivers professional expert services in mould inspection, prevention and removal.
Get a free online quote
If you have persistent or large mould problems bring in the help of the professionals at Mould Removal Australia.
Mould Removal Australia services locations across Sydney, Blue Mountains, Wollongong, Central Coast, Newcastle, Hunter Valley and Port Stephens areas.
We are happy to answer any mould-related questions, provide you with a free online quote or if you want to book an appointment, please get in touch using our Contact Form or call us on 1300 681 034.
For more information about mould and our services see our website.
