5 Top Tips To Deal with Mildew and Mould in the Bathroom

A mouldy bathroom is a common problem, and it’s unsurprisingly due to the damp and humid conditions that tend to occur every time we have a bath or a shower. Mould is a fungus that thrives in moist, warm and dark places, and appears as a black speckled growth on walls, ceilings, and in grouting. It can start off as mildew, which is a form of white fungus. 

Mould not only looks unattractive but it can also cause or exacerbate health problems. The longer the problem is left untreated, the more difficult it can be to manage, so you should take preventative measures as soon as the first signs of mould appear. Here are some tips to help prevent and remove mould from the bathroom.

Make sure there is adequate ventilation

Mould thrives in damp conditions where there is little airflow, so use an extractor fan while you are having a bath or shower, and open the window afterwards to allow the moisture to escape. This will help to prevent condensation forming on the walls, windows, and ceiling that can lead to mould.

Dry off the shower area

After showering, wipe down the walls and shower tray to remove excess moisture. 

Clean on a regular basis

The mould should not develop easily if you are cleaning on a regular basis and including the grout and wall tiles. Use a mild detergent that is compatible with the type of tiles that you have in the bathroom, or alternatively use a mixture of white vinegar and water.

Inspect the bathroom for leaks

Leaks are a common problem in bathrooms, whether from damaged piping or from cracks in walls or around window joints. Keep on top of any repairs to make sure that there is no source of damp from leaks under the floorboards or around fixtures and fittings. 

How to get rid of stubborn mould

More advanced mould may be difficult to remove with regular cleaning substances. Therefore you may need to use harsher chemicals such as a commercial mould remover, or a diluted bleach mixture. 

Always wear gloves and a mask when tackling severe cases of mould, and dispose of your cleaning cloths and sponges safely afterwards, or you may risk spreading the fungus to other areas of the house. 

If you have mould in the grouting, try scrubbing it with a bleach solution or specialist mould remover and an old toothbrush. If you still cannot get rid of black mould in the bathroom, seek professional help because otherwise it may become a health hazard. 

If any household members have asthma or other allergies, mould can make these problems worse so take action as soon as you see the first signs of black growth or notice a musty smell in your bathroom.