How To Prevent Bathroom Mold Growth?
Mold buildup in bathrooms is a common but serious problem caused by high levels of moisture as well as inadequate ventilation. If left unmanaged, it can cause drastic destruction to bathroom walls and surfaces.
To avoid the risks posed by mold growth in bathrooms, take the necessary steps to safeguard the area. This may include waterproofing shower tiles and installing an exhaust fan to keep humidity levels within an acceptable range.
Sealing off damp areas and increasing ventilation can make your bathroom less susceptible to mold formation. Regularly inspect surfaces and any plumbing leaks to ensure that a small issue does not become a large, costly problem later on.
We have ten easy strategies to help keep it clean and healthy. Let’s dive in.
Photo by Jean van der Meulen
How To Prevent Bathroom Mold Growth: Know 10 Easy Ways
Bathroom mold is a common problem in many homes, but it doesn’t have to be. From waterproofing shower tiles to controlling humidity levels, these strategies can help make your bathroom more resistant to the growth of molds and mildews.
1. Waterproof Your Shower Tile:
Use a waterproof sealant to keep moisture from seeping into cracks between tiles and grout. Sealing cracks between tiles and grout helps prevent water leakage while also delaying the onset of mold growth in your bathroom.
This sealant should be applied after tile installation and periodically checked for any signs of wear or tear. It’s essential to clean the area thoroughly before applying any type of sealer to ensure maximum efficacy.
It is also important to select a sealer appropriate for both the type of tiles and grout used in your bathroom. Common types of grout sealers include silicone-based products, acrylic sealers, and epoxy sealers, all providing varying levels of protection against water damage.
Penetrating sealers provide excellent protection for long periods, while topical sealers offer easy application with no mess. Color sealers change grout color and provide protection from mold and mildew.
2. Fixing Any Leaks in the Bathroom:
Leaking pipes or fixtures provide ideal conditions for mold growth, so it’s important to fix any leaks promptly. To prevent mold, regularly inspect your bathroom for signs of water damage or leaks, such as damp walls or floors and musty odors.
If you have experienced water damage due to leaking pipes or fixtures, this could indicate a larger problem that requires professional attention. In some cases, simple fixes such as tightening connections or replacing gaskets may be all that is needed to solve even larger issues with leaks.
3. Use Liquid Soap instead of Bar Soap:
Using liquid soap instead of soap bars is a great way to prevent mold growth in bathrooms. The latter often leaves behind residue on surfaces which can encourage the formation of mildew and other forms of mold over time.
On the other hand, liquid soap generally has antimicrobial properties that help ensure no residue is left behind. Ensure to select a liquid soap that does not contain any harsh chemicals or fragrances which may damage surfaces and, ultimately, lead to further contamination with mold spores.
4. Apply Proper Ventilation:
To prevent mold growth in the bathroom, one of the most important steps is to apply proper ventilation. This involves installing an exhaust fan that vents directly outside to remove moisture-laden air from the room quickly and efficiently.
If an exhaust fan is unavailable, opening a window 10-15 minutes after use can help reduce humidity levels. Using a dehumidifier in humid climates will help maintain healthy air circulation while preventing condensation from forming on walls or other surfaces.
5. Regular Cleaning Bathroom Wall with a Squeegee:
Another effective way to keep the bathroom mold-free is by regularly cleaning walls with a squeegee or towel after each bath or shower session. This will help remove any excess water on the walls that could promote mold growth if left unchecked.
Thoroughly dry off any surfaces like countertops or vanities where water could linger after use. Keeping Bathware clean and dry will go a long way toward ensuring your bathroom remains free of mold growth over time.
6. Dry Your Mats, Washrag, Loofah, or Sponge:
Keep bathroom items like mats, washcloths, loofahs, and sponges dry when not in use. They often retain moisture which encourages mold spores to grow quickly if left unchecked for too long.
Ensure to hang items up in well-ventilated areas so they remain dry for the best results when preventing unwanted mold growth in your bathroom space.
7. Use Nonporous Materials in Bathrooms:
An effective way to help keep mold at bay in the bathroom is to use unporous construction materials. Nonporous materials are moisture-resistant and do not absorb water, which stops the growth of mold and mildew.
Common nonporous materials include ceramic tiles, glass, and stainless steel fixtures such as sinks, toilets, and curtain rods. Ceramic tiles are popular for bathroom walls and floors due to their durability and easy maintenance.
Glass can be used for shower screens or windows, allowing light into the room while preventing water from splashing. Stainless steel fixtures should be selected for their resistance to moisture.
8. Apply a Daily Shower Spray After Bathing:
A daily shower spray is another effective way of preventing mold growth in the bathroom. This helps to kill any existing mold and mildew in the area while also preventing minerals from building up.
When choosing a shower spray, look for ingredients that kill mold and mildew while being safe on all surfaces. Sprays should also have a pleasant scent to freshen up the atmosphere of the bathroom.
Regularly applying a daily shower spray can help reduce soap scum, and mineral deposits buildup. It prevents health problems related to mold exposure.
9. Insulate the Bathroom Walls:
Insulating the bathroom walls is an important step in preventing mold growth. Insulation can help reduce moisture penetration into walls by creating a barrier between them and the moist air inside.
Fiberglass or spray foam insulation is best for bathrooms due to its moisture-resistant properties. After adding insulation, install vapor barriers to further reduce moisture penetration. Be sure to hire a professional when installing insulation so there are no gaps or spaces where mold could grow unchecked.
10. Control Humidity Levels:
A dehumidifier is one of the most effective ways to reduce humidity levels and discourage mold growth in your bathroom. Choose one large enough for your bathroom’s size.
Place the dehumidifier in the bathroom area with the highest humidity level. Ensure to empty out its water reservoir regularly.
Maintain a balanced climate in your bathroom with thermostatic radiator valves. These installations help reduce humidity and control mold growth so that you can enjoy the fresh air.
Due to the radiators’ different angles and shapes, two thermostatic valves are available. Angled valves provide versatile installation options for odd-shaped radiators, while straight valves can be used in applications where a more traditional approach is desired.
Keep Your Bathroom Mold-Free and Looking as Good as New
For a bathroom free of mold, it's important to keep surfaces dry and the area well-ventilated. Utilize nonporous materials for optimal results and attend immediately to any plumbing issues. You can significantly reduce your chances of having an issue with bathroom mold.
Addressing leaks is crucial in minimizing standing water. Keep your bathroom looking like new with the help of a dehumidifier or TRV. These tools can ensure optimal humidity levels and block out unwanted elements, allowing it to remain pristine for years.
Author: Ryan David
Cover image by Point3D Commercial Imaging Ltd. on Unsplash
