Prevent Mold and Mildew in the Bathroom

11/20/2020 (Permalink)

One of the most difficult household chores in homes throughout Golden Glades, FL, is scrubbing the grout between tiles in the shower. This is particularly true when there are signs of bathroom mildew because mildew is hard to prevent and is even more difficult to clean away.

How To Prevent Mold and Mildew

It's usually necessary to hire a professional to get rid of mold once it's established, but it is possible to prevent mold from growing in your bathroom with the following steps:

• Reduce humidity
  
• Increase ventilation
  
• Clean up excess moisture
  
• Watch for leaks and make repairs immediately
  
  

When you are consistent in practicing these habits, you can prevent most bathroom mold issues.

Reduce Humidity
In many situations, a humidity problem is the cause of a mold problem. Hot, steamy showers often leave bathrooms dripping with condensation. As the moisture seeps into the walls, hidden pockets of mold colonies are free to grow and spread. The first step in preventing bathroom mildew is decreasing the humidity in air.

Increase Ventilation
The second step is adding ventilation. Consider installing a bathroom fan that directs moisture out of the home when family members shower. A dehumidifier may also help reduce humidity. One of the simplest ways to reduce moisture is opening windows and doors. However, this may not be enough ventilation if there's a lot of humidity in the air.

Clean Up Excess Moisture
It's very important that any wet footprints, damp towels, or other soggy items are dried up as quickly as possible. Mold could establish itself within one or two days. Once mold spores find an inviting environment, it is difficult to thoroughly remove them. For example, if a mildewy towel is removed from the bathroom, spores may float into the air and re-establish themselves on another surface.

Repair Leaks Immediately
Finally, as soon as you notice water seeping from under the toilet or condensation on the window or a pipe, contact water damage cleanup and repair professionals. Remember, it doesn't take long for a small, damp surface to become a home to mold. Bathroom mildew should quickly prompt cleanup and remediation.