Mold serves a vital purpose in the ecosystem, but it has no place in a confined space like your bathroom. Prevent mold growth in your bathroom with these five easy tips from The Pink Plumber.
Exhaust Fans
Installing a high-quality exhaust fan is an easy way to reduce the amount of moisture in your bathroom. Exhaust fans pull moisture out of the room and force it outside through an exhaust vent. Most homes and apartments come with exhaust fans, but they're usually a base model with very little power.
Exhaust fans are rated by the amount of air they're able to move per minute. This volumetric measurement is called CFM, or cubic feet per minute. To calculate the right fan for your bathroom, first, calculate the total volume of your bathroom. Divide the volume by 7.5 to get the CFM you need. Use this measurement to buy a fan that will quickly and effectively move air out of the bathroom. Once you install your fan, remember to turn it on before you step into the shower and let it run for at least 30 minutes after you're done to ensure that all the moisture is gone.
Regular Cleaning
In addition to cleaning your exhaust fan, cleaning your bathroom on a regular basis will also help combat mold. Bleach-based cleaning fluids are best, but for those who don't like the overpowering smell, white vinegar is a natural disinfectant that's also good for cleaning tile and bathroom surfaces. A squeegee is another good investment for your bathroom cleaning arsenal, and you can find them cheap at your local dollar or automotive store. After you shower, use the squeegee to remove excess water from the walls. This technique will help prevent mold growth on your walls as well as reduce the appearance of water spots and soap scum.
Air Filtration
A high-quality air filter in your HVAC system can also help prevent mold from growing and spreading throughout your house. You AC filters are located inside the return vent. Filters trap dust, dander, and other airborne allergens, including mold. Make sure your air filters are HEPA filters that are rated for mold and mildew and set a reminder for yourself to change them every three months.
Mold-Proof Decor
Another way to prevent mold growth in your bathroom is to use mold-proof decor. Other than a bath mat and towels, there shouldn't be any fabric decorations in the bathroom. Moisture clings to fabric and, over time, will develop mold. Decorate your bathroom with stainless steel fixtures, rubber duckies, and plastic soap dishes that are impervious to mold.
Plumbing Leaks
The number one source of mold in the bathroom is leaky plumbing. If you have a traditional cabinet under your sink, clean it out once a month and inspect the interior for water damage. If you notice water stains or black, fuzzy spots inside your cabinet, call your local plumber as soon as possible. Once manifested, mold is hazardous to your respiratory health. By inspecting your plumbing and faucets on a regular basis, you can quickly stop leaks, save money on water loss, and prevent mold from infesting your bathroom.
