Bathroom Mould: How to Remove It and Prevent It Coming Back

Why Bathrooms Get Mouldy

Bathrooms provide the perfect environment for mould: warmth, moisture, and often poor ventilation. Understanding why mould grows helps you prevent it returning.

Common Causes

• Inadequate ventilation
• Hot showers creating steam
• Wet surfaces left to dry naturally
• Leaking pipes or seals
• Cold external walls causing condensation

Types of Bathroom Mould

Black Mould (Stachybotrys)

The most concerning type, appearing as dark patches. Can cause health issues with prolonged exposure.

Pink Mould (Actually Bacteria)

The pink or orange slime in showers isn't mould but bacteria. Still needs removing but is less concerning.

Green/Grey Mould

Common on grout and silicone sealant. Usually easier to treat than black mould.

Health Concerns

Mould exposure can cause:

• Respiratory issues
• Allergic reactions
• Headaches
• Skin irritation
• Worsening of asthma

Those most at risk include children, elderly people, and those with existing respiratory conditions.

Safe Mould Removal

Protective Equipment

Always wear:

• Face mask (N95 minimum)
• Rubber gloves
• Eye protection
• Old clothes

Ventilation

• Open windows
• Turn on extractor fan
• Keep door open

Removal Methods

For Light Mould:

1. Mix white vinegar with water (50/50)
2. Spray on affected areas
3. Leave for 30 minutes
4. Scrub with stiff brush
5. Rinse and dry

For Stubborn Mould:

1. Apply mould-specific cleaner or bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water)
2. Leave for 15 minutes
3. Scrub thoroughly
4. Rinse well
5. Dry completely

For Silicone Sealant:

If mould is embedded in sealant, it often needs replacing:

1. Remove old sealant with a sealant remover tool
2. Clean the area with mould treatment
3. Ensure completely dry (use a hairdryer if needed)
4. Apply new anti-mould silicone sealant

What to Avoid

• Never dry brush mould (spreads spores)
• Don't mix bleach with other cleaners
• Avoid painting over mould
• Don't ignore early signs

Preventing Mould Return

Daily Habits

1. Wipe down wet surfaces after showering
2. Hang towels to dry spread out
3. Leave door open after bathing
4. Squeegee shower screens

Improve Ventilation

• Run extractor fan during and 20 minutes after bathing
• Install a more powerful extractor if needed
• Consider a humidity-sensing fan
• Open windows regularly

Reduce Condensation

• Take cooler, shorter showers
• Wipe cold surfaces that collect moisture
• Consider a dehumidifier for persistently damp bathrooms
• Insulate cold external walls if possible

Regular Maintenance

• Clean bathroom weekly
• Check and clean extractor fan quarterly
• Inspect sealant regularly
• Address leaks immediately

When to Call Professionals

Seek professional help when:

• Mould covers a large area (more than 1 square metre)
• It keeps returning despite treatment
• There's a musty smell but no visible mould
• You suspect mould behind walls or under floors
• Anyone in the household has health reactions
• The property is rented (landlord responsibility)

Professional mould removal includes:

• Identifying the source
• Safe removal with proper containment
• Treatment of affected areas
• Recommendations to prevent recurrence