How to Prevent Mold from Growing in Your Bathroom

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

Mold on bathroom ceiling.

While it is true that mold growth can be found just about anywhere, particularly after any sort of water damage, your bathroom is especially prone to mold spores. If you're concerned about mold infiltrating your home, these three preventative measures can help.

1. Make Use of Your Bathroom Fan

Bathrooms are humid by default. Unwanted water, both in the air and on porous surfaces, can be detrimental to the state of your home. For example, broken or cracked bathroom tiles, either in the shower or part of the flooring, can lead to mold growth if neglected. An excellent way to prevent this haven for mold spores is by ensuring your bathroom stays dry.
Keep the fan running while you bathe and for at least 30 minutes after. This will help rid the bathroom of abundant moisture, which is prone to lingering in confined areas and causing water damage. Left unattended, this excess moisture can even lead to black mold, which will require remediation experts to rectify.

2. Remove Excess Water After Showers and Baths

This step is relatively self-explanatory but extremely important. In fact, removing the moisture clinging to your tiles can rid your bathroom of up to 75% of surplus condensation. Utilizing a squeegee is one of the simplest ways to eliminate remaining water from your shower walls.

3. Annually Reseal Your Shower to Ensure Your Tiles Are in Good Repair

Standard grout sealer is your best friend when it comes to mold prevention. This mixture of sand, cement, and lime is used as a filler between tiles after setting. Adding a grout sealer prevents your bathroom tiles from absorbing stains, bacteria, and excess water, decreasing your chances of a mold infestation.

Undoubtedly, the best way to avoid water damage and the potential for mold growth is by preventing it. Utilizing your bathroom fan, keeping tiles free of lingering moisture, and resealing those tiles as needed can all contribute to the current, mold-free state of your home.