Of all the places in your home, bathrooms are always the first to accumulate mold. Frequent showers and hot baths leave steam and moisture clinging to every surface, inviting mold spores to proliferate. Mold can be incredibly difficult to remove once it's begun to grow, and it can cause big problems for your loved ones. Not only will you have to worry about property damage and wood rot, but you could leave your family susceptible to respiratory and neurological issues as well. At Mr. Rooter of Atlanta, we want our local customers to have a safe and healthy home. Thankfully, there are a few simple steps that homeowners can take to reduce the chances of mold growth in bathrooms, and we want to share them with you today.
Repair Leaks
The first step is to stay in control of leaks. Even the smallest leaks can wreak chaos if left ignored long term. Stay proactive by scheduling an annual plumbing inspection, and take care of leaks quickly before the water seeps into your flooring, cabinets or foundation.
Install a Fan to Vent Moisture
Most newly built homes will automatically come with a bathroom fan. However, if you've purchased an older home, there's a good chance there isn't one installed. Fans prevent moisture buildup by removing the steam from your bathroom during and after a hot shower. If you don't have one, be sure to invest in a fan installation as soon as possible. If you do have one, make sure it is adequate for the size of your bathroom, and get an upgrade if needed. When using your fan, leave it on for at least 30 minutes to get rid of as much moisture as possible.
Use a Bathroom Squeegee After Each Bath or Shower
Bathroom squeegees provide a fast and simple way to dry the walls near your bathtub or shower stall. Simply swipe the squeegee over tile, fiberglass or glass panels, and most the area will be dry when you leave.
Clean with Bleach Solution Once a Week
It's a good idea to spray down all surfaces with a solution made from 90 percent water and 10 percent bleach. This will help destroy mold spores and bacteria that might be growing. Make this simple task a part of your weekly cleaning routine, and you'll soon develop a lifelong habit that will keep your bathroom sparkling.
Wash Towels and Bath Mats
Cloth can attract water, and grow mold quickly. Make sure to clean any bath towels, hand towels, rugs and bath mats as often as possible to avoid problems.
Seal Tile Grout When Needed
Tile grout is a magnet for mold. Reseal your tile grout annually to protect it from moisture, bacteria and spores. While it may require a little extra effort, the task will be well worth it because you'll avoid the need to replace tile prematurely.
Are You Ready for a Mold Free Bathroom? Get Help from the Experts at Mr. Rooter
Is it time for your next plumbing inspection, leak repair, fixture replacement or vent fan installation? Then call the team at Mr. Rooter of Atlanta today. Our certified, licensed and insured plumbers are proud to provide quality residential and commercial services in Atlanta, Sandy Springs, Dunwoody, Roswell, Marietta, Georgia and other metro area cities. Call today to schedule your next appointment.