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Do You Have Mold in Your Shower or Bathtub? Find Out What to Do About it

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Keep your bathroom pristine with these mold-free strategies.

Mold is not only unsightly; it also can pose health risks to members of your family. If you have mold in your bathtub or shower, you are in good company. It is a common problem in American homes, and because mold thrives in moist, enclosed spaces, it stands to reason that bathrooms are among its favorite places to grow. Mold can cause respiratory distress, red and itchy eyes or even chronic lung infections, according to the Centers for Disease Control. You can send black mold packing by adopting some simple, straightforward cleaning strategies that will keep your bathtub and shower areas pristine.

Bathroom Mold Prevention

One of the best ways to banish mold from your living spaces is to prevent it in the first place. To do that successfully, be sure to:

  • Install an exhaust fan with a humidity sensor, which automatically removes moisture and conserves energy by shutting off when the moisture has been cleared.
  • Promptly repair any leaks if they develop.
  • Replace your shower curtain liner often.
  • Store shampoo, soap and bath toys in a dry place between uses.
  • Keep towels and bathmats clean and dry.
  • Maintain your home’s ambient air at less than 50 percent humidity.
  • Consider a grout-free shower system, to avoid moisture penetrating grout in the shower

Pro Tip: Mold will form wherever moisture remains standing in the bathroom. Controlling the moisture = controlling the problem!

Mold Removal

Even if mold has already gained a foothold, it is not too late to take remedial measures. If the caulking around the edge of your shower or tub surround is a mold magnet, the simplest thing to do is strip away the caulk, thoroughly dry the area and re-apply caulking. Pro tip: Never caulk over mold. This traps moisture and creates the perfect environment for mold to grow. 

Use bleach on non-porous, colorfast tile and fixtures to stop mold in its tracks. Mix a 1:10 solution of one part of bleach to ten parts hot water. You can add a bit more bleach if you need more strength, but be sure not to use it straight. Pro tip: Bleach will only work on non-porous surfaces. If mold is growing in grout or caulk, it must be removed, dried, and replaced.

For wallpaper or other more delicate surfaces, hydrogen peroxide or vinegar should do the trick. You can dab it, sponge it or spritz it. Take note, though, that while diluting cleaning chemicals with water is usually okay, never mix the chemicals themselves, unless you want to see some caustic reactions. Pro tip: Cleaning mold is temporary. See the mold prevention tips to ensure it does not come back.

As a natural, non-toxic alternative, try a few drops of tea tree oil in water. Spritz this mixture onto non-porous surfaces, give it a few minutes to go to work, and then add a tad of elbow grease to remove the mold.

Contact USA Bath for a Professional Touch

In the Reno, Nevada., Sacramento and San Francisco Bay areas, call on USA Bath to provide professional services, whether you only need a few repairs or are planning a major makeover. Get in touch with us today to speak with one of our friendly, knowledgeable bathroom repair and remodeling professionals.