Mold is toxic to our health and our homes, causing allergic reactions, disease, and foundational damage to our property. However, bathrooms are breeding grounds for mold growth: They’re moist, secluded, and many fixtures can go untouched for months. If you find mold growth in your bathroom, don’t panic. Follow these simple tips to rid your bathroom of mold for good.
Do Not Bleach or Scrape the Mold
Contrary to popular belief, bleach does not kill mold. While it may remove the mold stain, the mold itself is made of microscopic spores that may not be visible to the naked eye. When you rub down your toilet bowl or shower tile with bleach, you’re removing the appearance of mold, not the mold itself.
Do not attempt to scrape the mold off. Since mold is made up of spores, the bacteria can spread when scraped off a surface. If you use your bare hand or a tool, that surface will contain harmful bacteria.
Create a Dry Environment
The first step to removing mold for good is to remove moisture from your bathroom. Moisture fosters mold growth. Keep your exhaust fan running in your bathroom to help the space to dry out. After taking a shower or bath, always wipe condensation from the shower walls and open your shower curtain.
Clean the Surface
Instead of using bleach to clean the mold, use a solution of soap and water. Apply this to the mold using a clean cloth. Make sure to wear gloves while cleaning mold from your bathroom surfaces. Make sure to thoroughly dry the area afterward.
Take Preventive Measures
Bacteria and mold love moist crevices where they can spread and fester. There are a few preventive solutions you can take to keep this from happening.
- Re-caulk crevices where mold growth appears, such as at the base of the toilet or between shower tiles.
- Run your exhaust fan regularly.
- Invest in a humidity monitor.
- Call a professional to assess the damage and perform a deep clean.
Need bathroom repairs due to mold growth? Mr. Rooter Plumbing can help you clean up and assess the damage. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at your home in The Woodlands, Texas.