How To Stop Mould In The Bathroom

• What causes mould in the bathroom?
• The dangers of bathroom mould
• How to remove bathroom mould
• How to prevent mould growing in the bathroom
• Get in touch

Mould thrives in humid environments like bathrooms. By taking the necessary steps to prevent and remove mould, you can ensure your bathroom looks clean and tidy, and provides a healthy environment for residents and visitors.

Here at ICE Cleaning, we offer fast and thorough mould remediation services. Our Dewpoint-accredited technicians are available across the UK and can remove all the mould in your property, including mould in the air. They can be on site within several hours if it's an emergency. 

Keep reading to find out why mould grows in the bathroom, how to get rid of it, and ways to prevent it. 

What causes mould in the bathroom?

Mould can often be found growing in our bathrooms because it provides it with the optimal conditions for growth. The fungus grows in environments with excess moisture and organic material for it to feed off of. It is usually caused by:

• High humidity: warm, humid air contains plenty of moisture. When it comes in contact with a cold surface like tiles or a window pane, it causes condensation which makes the surface damp. 
• Poor ventilation: fresh air can help remove some of the trapped humid air in your property.  
• Gaps in the silicone sealant: when water gets behind the sealant in your bathroom, mould can start growing behind it and lead to it getting mouldy. 
• Irregular cleaning: dust, dirt, and dead bugs all provide mould with a food source, enabling it to thrive. Letting this build up can lead to a serious mould problem. 
• Leaks and damp: with lots of exposed pipes in the bathroom, like underneath the sink, any leaks can quickly provide enough moisture for mould to grow. 

The dangers of bathroom mould 

Mould in the bathroom is not just an unsightly nuisance, it's a genuine health hazard. Mould release allergens, irritants, and sometimes even toxic substances which can cause a range of health problems when inhaled, ingested, and touched. This includes an allergic reaction like sneezing, coughing, and skin rashes, as well as asthma attacks. 

Some people are particularly vulnerable to mould exposure including people with respiratory problems, skin problems, and weakened immune systems. The elderly and very young are also at greater risk of health problems when exposed to mould. 

One type of mould that is often spotted growing in bathrooms is Stachybotrys chartarum. Known as "toxic black mould", it can produce mycotoxins, toxic chemicals associated with serious health problems like sick building syndrome. 

In homes with shared ventilation systems like flats or apartments, mould can spread to neighbouring properties as it can grow in air vents, too, putting lots of other people at risk of health problems. 

You must act to remove the mould as soon as you spot it - particularly black mould in the bathroom - as it can spread quickly in that environment. 

How to remove bathroom mould 

Although many different household products are recommended for DIY mould removal, from vinegar and baking soda to bleach, it should always be left to professionals. 

Firstly, bathroom mould is tricky to get rid of as it can quickly spread across the room. Tracking down all those hidden growths, including the ones in gaps or crevices, is tough. Any left behind could grow back and pose a risk to your health.

You might also clean the mould incorrectly. Scrubbing too hard with a bathroom mould remover, for example, will release spores into the air which you may breathe in. Or if you simply paint over it without treating it first, it can continue to grow underneath and cause further damage in the future.

You can find mould on the bathroom ceiling and other difficult-to-reach areas, as well, which can be tough and potentially dangerous to clean. 

It is recommended you always bring in professional cleaners for mould remediation. They will have the specialist cleaning products and equipment, including personal protective equipment (PPE), to safely and thoroughly remove all the mould in your home. 

They can get into every nook and cranny, and give you peace of mind that the problem has been properly dealt with. They can even determine the root cause of the mould problem in your bathroom whether it be condensation, leaks, or poor ventilation, and advise on how to prevent it returning in the future. 

How to prevent mould growing in the bathroom

There are lots of ways to stop mould in the bathroom and your property as a whole. One of the most important changes to make is keeping indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50%. A dehumidifier can help maintain this low humidity and prevent condensation forming in your home. 

This can be tricky in bathrooms due to the steam producing when washing, so you should also make sure you open windows when showering or using the sink, and install extractor fans. 

It is recommended you wipe down surfaces that condensation forms on, like tiles and windows, after washing so the surfaces don't stay damp for a long period of time. Make sure you regularly clean surfaces, as well, to get rid of built up dirt and grime which helps mould thrive.

You must stretch out your shower curtain after a shower, too, to ensure it properly dries out as this is one of the most common places to find mould in the bathroom. Don't forget to have leaks fixed by professionals as soon as you spot them. 

Get in touch

Our nine-stage mould removal process can quickly restore the air quality in your home and make your property safe again. Every mould remediation comes with a lifetime guarantee* so you can also be sure your home will stay mould-free in the future. 

Contact our friendly team by calling 0208 066 0360 or sending your details to enquiries@icecleaning.co.uk to book our technicians for mould remediation.

*subject to advisories