There’s nothing more frustrating than having a clean bathroom, except for all the mold and mildew buildup on the shower walls and curtain. Not only is mold slimy and unpleasant to look at but it can also create odors and it is hazardous to your health. Mold and mildew can cause various respiratory conditions and can even affect the nervous system. Since it can rapidly grow, it is imperative to get rid of mold and mildew as quickly as possible.
Heat and moisture combine in areas like the tile around the tub and shower and this is where you will mostly see that black buildup of gunk. Luckily, there are ways to combat the buildup of mold and mildew in your bathroom.
- Exhaust fans are helpful – use it when you shower or bathe and leave it on for 30 minutes afterward.
- A humidifier can also help keep your humidity levels down below 50%.
- This is a tough one, but keeping items such as bottles of shampoo/shower gel, toys, and loofahs give mold a place to thrive and hide.
- Change your shower curtain regularly, or purchase a mildew-resistant one.
Now that you know how to prevent any more mold or mildew buildup, how do you get rid of the existing mold/mildew?
Create a cleaner using household items
Baking Soda & hot water solution – it is gentle, inexpensive, and won’t emit any harmful fumes:
- One teaspoon of liquid soap
- One cup of baking soda
- Several drops of essential oil (citrus, rosemary, lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, etc.)
- Enough water to form a paste.
Hydrogen Peroxide & water – Make sure you make a fresh batch every time!
- ½ cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide
- 1 cup warm water
- Spray bottle (to mix both ingredients into)
- Spray it onto the mold/mildew and let it sit for an hour before scrubbing it vigorously with a stiff-bristled brush and hot water.
There are many other solutions that can be made with other items such as white vinegar and hot water or bleach but above are just a couple.
Remember your health is important and therefore so is getting rid of mold and mildew. If you see mold and mildew making its way into walls and insulation or taking over a large area, call in a plumbing professional. A professional can also detect mold and mildew that may be coming from leaks in pipes, under sinks, and other areas that are not easily visible.
