Why Mould in Bathrooms Happen?
This articles covers everything you need to know about mould in bathrooms. But first you need to know what mould actually is, and why it happens.
Mould is a microscopic living organism, it is most obvious when it spoils our food. But mould is actually all around us, we only notice it when it grows large enough to see. Mould must have the following in order to flourish:
- Have an oxygen supply
- Be in an environment where there is moisture
- Must have access to organic material
Considering the above requirements for mould, it would now make sense why it’s usually seen in damp places around the home. Bathrooms are usually the most problematic area for mould growth due to the high amounts of moisture.
Did you know there are different types of mould! Usually the type of mould present can be determined by its color. This is because the color is influenced by its nutrient source and age. Brown and black mould is most common when it comes to bathrooms. Although this type of mould is harmless, it can make your bathroom look dirty. Mould is incredibly hard to remove if you don’t know how.
Mould in Bathrooms. Problems and Solutions
Bathroom Shower Curtain Mould
Shower Curtain Mould Problems:
- Shower curtain mould usually has the appearance of black sports or patches on the fabric. After you shower moisture and droplets of water get caught up in the shower curtain fabric, therefore giving mould the ideal environment to grow.
Shower Curtain Mould Solutions:
- If possible install a plastic shower screen in replace of the curtain. Plastic is more resistant to mould build up as moisture can easily run off it.
- Improve ventilation. The poor air circulation and humid temperatures found in bathrooms are ideal breeding grounds for mold.
- Read the instructions of the curtain carefully. If you can’t prevent the mould, you can clean it off regularly. You may be able to wash the curtain one a month to ensure it stays mould free.
Bathroom Grout Mould
Grout Mould Problems:
- Grout is a very porous substance. This means liquids can easily seep to the empty voids within the grout. During showering, moisture can easily infiltrating the grout. The moisture provides the ideal environment for mould growth, especially if ventilation if poor.
- Mould is commonly seen within grout between bathroom tiles. This is because tile grout has a porous structure which makes it easy for mould to grow into.
Grout Mould Solutions:
- Seal your grout to prevent mould spreading inside it. Grout sealers are usually applied via a spray or brush. It works by sealing the pores in your grout with a liquid which becomes hard over time, almost like a thin plastic covering. This means water will then run off your grout, without penetrating it. This is an easy methods to eliminate your grout mould problems. Before applying the grout sealer, make sure you thoroughly clean the grout first to remove the existing mould. Also the cleaned grout to dry out first before applying the sealer.
- You can buy an excellent grout sealer from Amazon.
Bathroom Wall Mould
Wall Mould Problems:
- Spores of mould increase when there is a sudden rise in temperature in a moist environment. For example, if your central heating is turned on in a damp house. Or when wet clothes are dried next to a radiator.
Wall Mould Solutions:
- Remove the mould first using special sprays.
- Think about what is causing the mould to form. It will probably be due to slow moving, moist air.
- Upgrade or install ventilation! Is your current ventilator suitable for the size of your bathroom? If not then ensure your new extractor has a higher flow rate. Also ensure your extractor vents directly to the outside. Ideally extractors should be located nearest to showers, and should have the shortest venting tube possible.
- Ensure your bathroom has sufficient insulation. Extreme changes in temperate from cold to hot encourage mould growth. A well insulated bathroom will ensure the temperature is more stable.
How does Mould effect your health?
A build-up of mould within the home is not good for your health, especially if you have allergies or asthma. Regardless of allergies, mould can irritate your nose, throat, skin, lungs and eyes. A majority of peoples time is spent at home, which is why mould problems must be dealt with. Usually people experience more symptoms related to mould in the winter. Bad weather increases moisture within the home, plus windows are closed for longer causing a reduction in natural ventilation.
