Mould often thrives in humid environments, making the bathroom a prime location for its growth. Not only is mould unsightly, but it also poses health risks, including respiratory issues and allergies. In this blog, we will explore effective strategies to prevent mould from taking hold in your bathroom, ensuring a clean and healthy space for you and your family.
What is Mould?
First of all, it’s important to understand what mould is and why it's so bad for us. Mould is a moisture-dependent fungus that thrives on wet surfaces and comes in various colours, including black, green, brown, grey, and white, making it hard to identify solely by colour. Common household moulds include:
- Black Mould (Stachybotrys chartarum): Typically found in bathrooms, wet rooms, and cold exterior walls in living spaces.
- Alternaria: Grows in damp, dusty areas, soil, and plants.
- Aspergillus: Common in air, soil, and building materials like drywall.
- Cladosporium: Often seen in bathrooms, under sinks, around faucets, and on carpets, furniture, walls, and floors.
- Penicillium: Found on fabrics, old mattresses, couch cushions, carpet, plywood, and insulation inside walls.
Mould reproduces through airborne spores that settle on surfaces. Given the right temperature, moisture, and nutrients, these spores can form new colonies. Early signs of mould growth are often unnoticed but can escalate into serious problems if untreated. Recent evidence highlights the harmful effects of poor air quality on health. Mould spores in the air are a significant cause of respiratory issues, leading some to liken mould to the "asbestos of the 21st century".
What causes Mould in the bathroom?
Mould thrives in dark and warm conditions, so it’s no wonder that bathrooms are so susceptible to this unwelcome house guest. Here are the most common causes of mould in your bathroom:
- Poor ventilation - Poor ventilation traps moisture in the bathroom, creating a humid environment where mould can easily thrive. Without proper airflow, wet surfaces stay damp longer, promoting mould growth.
- Leaky pipes, taps and toilets seeping into plasterboard and wood - Leaks provide a constant source of moisture that seeps into walls, floors, and ceilings, creating perfect conditions for mould to develop within hidden spaces.
- Damp cellulose materials - Materials like grout, plasterboard, and fabric retain moisture, providing an ideal breeding ground for mould. These damp, porous surfaces support mould growth by holding water.
- High humidity - The high moisture content and heat in the bathroom increase humidity levels. When combined with inadequate ventilation, these conditions accelerate the growth of mould spores.
- Excessive condensation - Condensation occurs when hot, damp air contacts cold surfaces like mirrors, walls, or windows. This moisture can accumulate on surfaces, creating wet spots where mould can thrive.
- Damaged grout - Damaged grout between shower tiles can absorb water over time. If not cleaned or repaired, these damp spots become breeding grounds for mould, as they provide the moisture mould needs to grow.
Tips to Prevent Mould in the Bathroom
Use an Extractor Fan to Reduce Moisture
An extractor fan is a crucial component in mould prevention. By turning on the extractor fan during your shower or bath, you can significantly reduce condensation in the bathroom. The fan works by expelling hot, damp air, which is the perfect environment for mould to grow. If you already have mould in your bathroom, installing an extractor fan can help keep it at bay by improving ventilation and reducing moisture levels.
Open a Window for Better Ventilation
Opening a window is another simple yet effective way to reduce condensation in the bathroom. By allowing fresh air to circulate, you can lower humidity levels, making it more difficult for mould to develop. Even a small amount of ventilation can make a big difference, so try to keep your bathroom window open, especially after taking a hot shower or bath.
Keep Wet Towels Off the Floor
Never leave wet towels on the floor. Damp towels create an ideal environment for mould to grow, not only on the towels themselves but also on the bathroom floor. Always hang wet towels to dry immediately after use. If you don’t have one already, invest in a towel rail and a towel ring so your towels have a designated space in your bathroom. This simple habit can prevent mould spores from finding a place to settle and grow.
Organise Shower Products to Prevent Scum Buildup
Storing your shower products properly can also help prevent mould. Use a shower caddy or shelf to keep bottles and soaps off the shower floor or the side of the bath. When products are left on these surfaces, they can contribute to soap scum buildup, which provides a breeding ground for mould. Keeping your shower products organised and off wet surfaces reduces the chances of mould growth.
Add Mould-Resistant Plants to Your Bathroom
Adding certain plants to your bathroom can also help combat mould. Plants such as Peace lilies, Boston ferns, ivy, spider plants, and orchids thrive in hot, steamy environments and can absorb excess moisture. These mould-beating plants not only add a touch of greenery to your bathroom but also contribute to a healthier, mould-free environment.
Regularly Wash Bath Mats and Towels
Regularly washing bath mats, towels, shower curtains, and any other fabric materials in the bathroom is essential for mould prevention. These items absorb water easily, and if left damp, they create a perfect breeding ground for mould. Make it a habit to wash and thoroughly dry these materials to prevent mould spores from taking hold.
Regularly access and replace grout when needed
Regularly inspecting and replacing grout in your bathroom is essential for preventing mould growth. Grout is porous and can absorb moisture, creating an ideal environment for mould. Over time, grout can crack or deteriorate, allowing water to seep behind tiles and further promote mould development. By checking for cracks, discolouration, or missing grout and promptly repairing or replacing it, you maintain a watertight seal that prevents moisture buildup. This proactive maintenance not only keeps your bathroom looking fresh but also ensures a cleaner and healthier space.
Preventing mould in the bathroom requires a combination of good ventilation, proper storage, and regular cleaning. By using the simple methods above, you can keep your bathroom mould-free. For more tips and a range of products designed to help you maintain a clean and healthy bathroom, visit our website or contact us directly. Together, we can ensure your bathroom remains a fresh and hygienic space.