How to prevent and remove mould in bathrooms
Mould thrives in bathrooms due to the ideal conditions it provides – it’s often wet, damp, and can be quite dark. In fact, washing and bathing can produce up to 0.5 litres of moisture which can then linger within the bathroom’s atmosphere, causing damp and mould to grow.
Different types of mould species can develop on various surfaces within the bathroom, including walls, ceilings, in bathtubs and showers, on carpets, wallpaper, grout, wood, sinks, and toilets. If you’re facing challenges in stopping mould from growing within your bathroom, it may hint at deeper reasons for its recurring appearance.
In this health and safety guide, we elaborate on the reasons why mould spores may be appearing within your bathroom and tips on how to stop mould and damp growth in bathrooms altogether.
Contents:
- Mouldy bathroom – why mould is appearing
- Why removing mould in bathrooms is important
- How to prevent and get rid of mould in bathrooms
Mouldy bathroom – why mould is appearing
While there are multiple reasons for condensation and the development of mould in the bathroom, the predominant factor is frequently a lack of proper ventilation when there is excess moisture, rather than an issue with the structure.
In modern homes across the UK, enhanced insulation, the use of draught excluders, and the widespread adoption of double or triple glazing inadvertently lead to the confinement of humid air when using bathrooms – consequently, this trapped excess moisture can result in a musty, mildewed, and unhealthy condition for bathroom walls, ceilings, showers and windows.
Where can mould appear?
- Bathroom tiles
- Bathroom window
- Bathroom ceiling and bathroom walls
- Bathroom rug
- Shower curtains
- General bathroom item
Why removing mould in bathrooms is important
The presence of mould exposure in bathrooms poses a serious health risk to occupants. Different types of mould including black mould, releases allergenic particles and mycotoxins, which can lead to various health issues, including nasal congestion, coughing, skin irritation, and eye discomfort.
As well as an impact on occupant’s health, mould can damage bathroom fixtures and surfaces, compromising their structural integrity and aesthetics – this not only decreases the longevity of your bathroom, but also increases maintenance costs further down the line.
If you’re a landlord, part of a housing association or homeowner looking for ways to ensure the safety of a bathroom and to prevent mould, Cornerstone can help provide comprehensive solutions.
How to prevent and get rid of mould in bathrooms
The presence of poor ventilation, high humidity levels, excess moisture, water intrusion, and regular activities such as towels drying and bathing, all serve as clear indications of an ongoing issue with mould in your bathroom.
To efficiently tackle the underlying issue causing mould on your bathroom door, walls, ceilings, cupboards, windows and other areas, it is essential to regulate atmospheric moisture generation and maintain suitable surface temperatures. Did you know that moisture generated in bathrooms can move to other areas within your home?
8 simple ways on preventing mould in bathrooms
- Use exhaust fans or open windows during and after bathing or showering to reduce humidity
- Open doors and windows in your bathrooms to allow fresh air
- Clean and wipe down wet bathroom surfaces regularly to remove excess moisture
- Dry shower walls, tiles, and the bathtub after each use with a squeegee or towel
- Use a mildew-resistant shower curtain and liner
- Minimise clutter in the bathroom to allow air to circulate freely
- Hang up wet towels and bathroom rugs to dry rather than leaving them in a damp heap
- Regularly inspect hidden areas like under the sink and behind the toilet for leaks or mould growth, and address any issues
Professional bathroom mould experts
Throughout the UK, thousands of tenants are enduring unsuitable living conditions, ranging from dampness to severe mould issues, often without receiving proper support, even after contacting their landlords and letting agents. If you observe dampness, condensation, or mould growth in your bathroom, it’s vital you investigate it as soon as possible.
Using SMART knowledge, our industry-leading experts utilise cutting-edge technology to provide complete solutions for addressing penetrating damp, black mould, and various bathroom-related condensation issues. Whether you’re a professional in the public sector overseeing social housing for local councils, striving to adhere to the requirements of the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, or a private landlord obligated by law to safeguard your tenants from internal atmospheric concerns, our expert team is ready to assist you in removing mould on walls, ceilings and other surfaces in your bathroom. Get your bathroom mould free!