Healthy Indoor Living: Everything There Is to Know About Bathroom Mould Prevention and Removal

Mould is one of the most common problems facing modern homeowners. It thrives in damp, dark environments, which places bathtubs, showers, and sometimes whole bathrooms at risk. Bathroom mould isn’t always obvious, so homeowners shouldn’t assume that just because they haven’t seen it, it’s not there. Instead, read on to find out what every homeowner needs to know about bathroom mould prevention and removal.

Causes of Bathroom Mould

Since mould thrives on moisture, poorly designed or ill-maintained bathrooms are uniquely prone to this problem. Plumbing leaks aren’t the only issue that can encourage mould growth. Mould will also thrive in bathrooms that aren’t properly ventilated or feature moisture-prone building materials. Homeowners who are having problems can always request a Bathroom Remodel by Simple Bath to resolve these and other issues.

Signs of Mould

Bathroom mould isn’t always obvious. Sometimes it grows in the tub or shower itself, but more often than not, it hides. The first sign of mould most residents notice is its unmistakable smell. If residents notice an unusual, musty odour, it’s time for homeowners to break out their flashlights.

Don’t stop at checking the caulking around the tub. Focus on hidden areas. Remember that mould likes the dark, so it’s more likely to form under sinks, in access areas beneath tubs, and in crawl spaces beneath bathrooms than in obvious spots.

How to Get Rid of Mould

If there’s not much mould in the bathroom, a handy homeowner may be able to resolve the problem him- or herself. Try taking remedial measures like replacing caulk and sealant that has been infested with mould and using mold-killing cleaning products on permanent fixtures. Bleach, vinegar, and even hydrogen peroxide can all kill mould. Just make sure to leave the windows open while using them to vent the fumes.

When to Call a Professional

While most homeowners can tackle minor mould problems themselves, there are some circumstances where it’s better to hire a professional. If the mould is seeping into walls or insulation or the affected area is larger than 10 square feet, call a pro. Tearing out walls and performing the other work required to remodel a mouldy bathroom can release mould spores into the home. Professionals know how to deal with that, but most homeowners don’t.

It’s also important to keep in mind that some moulds are more harmful than others. Black mould, for example, is toxic. It can cause skin irritation, exacerbate asthma symptoms, and even cause neurological issues after prolonged exposure.

Preventing Mold

The old axiom, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” absolutely applies to bathroom mould. It’s much easier to prevent mould growth than it is to get rid of the mould once the colony has already started to spread. Here’s what residents can do to protect themselves:

·  Use a ventilation fan.

Keep relative humidity levels low.

Wash or replace shower curtains frequently.

Wash bathroom rugs often.

Avoid keeping soap and shampoo bottles in the shower.

The Bottom Line

Dealing with bathroom mould can be frustrating, but don’t ignore the problem. It will only get worse. Try taking some of the simple preventative and remediating measures described above. If they don’t work, don’t hesitate to call in some professional help. Look at it as a fantastic excuse to remodel that ageing bathroom and improve the house’s property value.