Keep it Clean
How to Prevent Mold in Your Bathroom
November 10, 2023 by Rachael Buckingham
The bathroom can be a breeding ground for germs. It’s a space to get clean and refreshed after a long day, but you won’t be feeling clean for long if you spot mold! Mold not only damages surfaces but also poses health risks to both humans and pets. To ensure your bathroom remains both safe and hygienic, follow these essential tips to prevent the growth of mold.
Ventilation Matters: Adequate ventilation is crucial in preventing mold. Ensure your bathroom is well-ventilated by using exhaust fans during and after showers. Ideally, the exhaust fan should be near the shower or bath. If it’s in a separate toilet area, make sure that door remains open. Consider leaving the bathroom door or window open to promote air circulation. It is also a great idea to leave the shower curtain or door open until it dries.
Fix Leaks Promptly: Leaks, no matter how small, can lead to mold growth. Check for and promptly fix any leaks in under sink pipes, faucets, or the shower head. This prevents the accumulation of excess moisture, which is a prime breeding ground for mold and can damage your cabinetry.
Use Mold-Resistant Products: When renovating or updating your bathroom, opt for mold-resistant materials like mold-resistant drywall and paint. These products are specifically designed to deter mold growth and can be a valuable investment in the long run. Make sure any tile or grout your contractor uses are specifically designed for bathrooms. Those tiny tile patterns may look beautiful but will not be as easy to clean and maintain as larger options.
Keep Surfaces Dry: After each use, wipe down or squeegee wet surfaces such as shower walls, bathtub, and countertops. This extra step eliminate excess moisture, leaving mold with a less friendly environment to grow. It also prevents water marks and helps with product build up on your tile or glass shower door. Consider investing in quick-dry bath mats and towels to further reduce moisture levels, and make sure to change them out regularly.
Regular Cleaning Routine: Incorporate a regular cleaning routine into your schedule. Use mold-killing cleaning agents to tackle existing mold and prevent its return. Pay attention to often-neglected areas like grout lines, shower curtains, and corners where mold can easily take hold. Make sure to check the cleaning products are compatible with your surface material before use. Some can strip away the finish on tile or countertops, making them more prone to mold. It’s always a good idea to inspect the grout while cleaning to make sure it is in tact and sealed tightly, making it hard for mold to take hold!
Monitor Humidity Levels: Keep an eye on the humidity levels in your bathroom. Aim for humidity levels between 30-50%. A good idea is to measure an hour after you shower or bathe. If the humidity is still very high you may need to look into different ventilation options.
Organize To Prevent Clutter: Cluttered spaces are harder to clean and can trap moisture. Keep your bathroom well-organized, removing unnecessary items from surfaces, especially on build in shower shelves. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also reduces potential hiding spots for mold.
Inspect and Clean Drainpipes: Clogged or slow-draining pipes can contribute to moisture accumulation. Regularly inspect and clean your drainpipes to prevent blockages and ensure proper water drainage.
Ventilation Matters: Adequate ventilation is crucial in preventing mold. Ensure your bathroom is well-ventilated by using exhaust fans during and after showers. Ideally, the exhaust fan should be near the shower or bath. If it’s in a separate toilet area, make sure that door remains open. Consider leaving the bathroom door or window open to promote air circulation. It is also a great idea to leave the shower curtain or door open until it dries.
Fix Leaks Promptly: Leaks, no matter how small, can lead to mold growth. Check for and promptly fix any leaks in under sink pipes, faucets, or the shower head. This prevents the accumulation of excess moisture, which is a prime breeding ground for mold and can damage your cabinetry.
Use Mold-Resistant Products: When renovating or updating your bathroom, opt for mold-resistant materials like mold-resistant drywall and paint. These products are specifically designed to deter mold growth and can be a valuable investment in the long run. Make sure any tile or grout your contractor uses are specifically designed for bathrooms. Those tiny tile patterns may look beautiful but will not be as easy to clean and maintain as larger options.
Keep Surfaces Dry: After each use, wipe down or squeegee wet surfaces such as shower walls, bathtub, and countertops. This extra step eliminate excess moisture, leaving mold with a less friendly environment to grow. It also prevents water marks and helps with product build up on your tile or glass shower door. Consider investing in quick-dry bath mats and towels to further reduce moisture levels, and make sure to change them out regularly.
Regular Cleaning Routine: Incorporate a regular cleaning routine into your schedule. Use mold-killing cleaning agents to tackle existing mold and prevent its return. Pay attention to often-neglected areas like grout lines, shower curtains, and corners where mold can easily take hold. Make sure to check the cleaning products are compatible with your surface material before use. Some can strip away the finish on tile or countertops, making them more prone to mold. It’s always a good idea to inspect the grout while cleaning to make sure it is in tact and sealed tightly, making it hard for mold to take hold!
Monitor Humidity Levels: Keep an eye on the humidity levels in your bathroom. Aim for humidity levels between 30-50%. A good idea is to measure an hour after you shower or bathe. If the humidity is still very high you may need to look into different ventilation options.
Organize To Prevent Clutter: Cluttered spaces are harder to clean and can trap moisture. Keep your bathroom well-organized, removing unnecessary items from surfaces, especially on build in shower shelves. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also reduces potential hiding spots for mold.
Inspect and Clean Drainpipes: Clogged or slow-draining pipes can contribute to moisture accumulation. Regularly inspect and clean your drainpipes to prevent blockages and ensure proper water drainage.
Preventing mold in the bathroom involves maintaining proper ventilation, addressing leaks promptly, and practicing good cleaning habits. By incorporating these tips into your bathroom care routine, you can ensure a fresh, clean, and mold-free environment for years to come!
Best Option Restoration of SW Raleigh in Wake County is your local, mold remediation company, offering 24/7 emergency services. Our knowledgeable technicians respond promptly to your situation and safely and effectively remove mold, mold spores and mold damaged areas and return your home or business back into a safe environment.
If you suspect you have mold in your home or business, get in touch with Best Option Restoration of SW Raleigh today for a free mold inspection and estimate.
