How to Keep Your Bathroom Mould-Free: A Professional’s Guide
There are few household problems more persistent or worrying than discovering bathroom mould. Those unsightly black, green, or pink spots on your shower grout, ceiling, or walls aren’t just an aesthetic issue; they can be a potential health hazard and a sign of underlying moisture problems.
As professional cleaners, we deal with bathroom mould regularly. We understand what causes it, how to get rid of it safely, and most importantly, how to prevent it from coming back. This guide will walk you through the essential pro strategies to keep your bathroom clean, healthy, and mould-free.
Understanding Why Bathroom Mould Appears
Mould is a type of fungus, and it needs a specific recipe to grow:
- Moisture: Bathrooms are the most humid room in the house.
- Warmth: Hot showers create a warm, steamy environment.
- A Food Source: Mould can feed on soap scum, dead skin cells, and even dust.
When these three elements combine, you have the perfect breeding ground. The key to winning the battle against mould is to systematically remove one or more of these elements.
The Proactive Defence: 4 Essential Prevention Tips
In our professional experience, prevention is always the best cure. A few consistent habits are far more effective than an annual deep scrub.
1. Master Airflow and Ventilation
This is the single most important step. Without moisture, mould cannot grow.
- Use the Exhaust Fan: Run your exhaust fan during every shower or bath and for at least 20-30 minutes afterwards to vent moist air outside.
- Open a Window: If you have one, crack a window open to improve air circulation.
- Dry Surfaces: Use a squeegee on shower screens and tiled walls after each use. Wipe down any puddles on the floor or vanity.
2. Control Indoor Humidity
Especially during Australia’s humid seasons, you may need extra help. A portable dehumidifier can make a world of difference in a bathroom with persistent dampness.
3. Wash Towels and Bathmats Regularly
Damp towels and bathmats are prime real estate for mould growth. Hang towels so they can dry completely between uses and wash them, along with your bathmats, at least once a week.
4. Clean Regularly to Remove Its Food Source
A consistent cleaning schedule robs mould of the soap scum and organic matter it loves to eat. A quick weekly wipe-down of the shower, toilet, and sink as part of your regular home cleaning service routine can make a huge difference.
How to Safely Remove Existing Bathroom Mould (For Small Areas)
If you’ve spotted a small area of mould (no larger than your hand), you can often handle it yourself with the right safety precautions.
Safety First: Before you start, put on protective gear: rubber gloves, safety glasses, and a P2-rated face mask to avoid inhaling mould spores. Keep the area well-ventilated.
- Step 1: Choose Your Solution. A solution of 3 parts vinegar to 2 parts water in a spray bottle is a great natural option. For more stubborn stains, a specialised commercial bathroom mould remover can be used (always follow the product’s safety instructions).
- Step 2: Apply and Wait. Spray the solution directly onto the mouldy area and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. This gives it time to kill the mould at its roots.
- Step 3: Scrub and Rinse. Use a stiff-bristled brush (an old toothbrush is perfect for grout lines) to scrub the area. You should see the mould begin to lift. Rinse the surface thoroughly with clean water.
- Step 4: Dry Completely. This is a critical final step. Dry the area completely with a clean cloth. You can even use a hairdryer on a low setting to ensure grout is totally dry.
When to Call a Professional: The Dangers of Large-Scale Mould
DIY methods are only suitable for small, surface-level mould. If you are facing any of the following, it is crucial to call a professional cleaning and mould remediation service:
- The mould covers a large area (generally more than one square metre).
- The mould comes back quickly after cleaning, suggesting a deeper issue.
- You can smell a strong, musty odour but can’t see the source (it could be behind walls or under floors).
- Family members are experiencing health issues. As stated by health authorities like NSW Health, mould can trigger allergic reactions, asthma, and other respiratory problems.
Professionals have the correct training, commercial-grade equipment, and safety gear to handle widespread contamination and address the underlying cause safely and effectively. This is especially critical during a bond clean, where failing to properly remediate mould can risk your deposit.
A Healthy Home is a Mould-Free Home
By focusing on prevention and tackling small spots safely and quickly, you can keep your bathroom healthy and clean.
If you’re dealing with a persistent mould problem or need a hand getting your bathroom back to a pristine state, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact AustClean today for a professional assessment and a free, no-obligation quote.