How to Get Rid of Mould in Bathroom

Your bathroom is one of your home’s most important rooms. 

A place where you bathe, wash and get ready for the day, it’s important that it is always in the best condition. However, due to the often damp and moist nature of bathrooms, mould can become common in these settings. 

In particular, bathrooms offer the conditions and environment to act as a great breeding ground for black mould, so if yours is suffering from the issue then it’s important you know how to get rid of it. 

In this article, we’ll explain the dangers that black mould can pose, as well as the things you can do to get rid of it. 

Read on to find out more…

What Is Black Mould?

Black mould is a particular type of fungus that thrives in damp, moist and warm conditions. 

Within your property, the bathroom is the most likely place that will tick all of these boxes and while it may begin as just a mild mildew, it can soon grow into a significant, and potentially hazardous, problem. 

Specifically, the growth of mould on bathroom walls and ceilings is due to excessive moisture that begins with condensation building up over time after someone has had a bath or a shower. When the warm air meets a cold surface, like a ceiling or wall, mould may start to appear. 

What Are The Risks Of Black Mould? 

If black mould has appeared in your bathroom, it’s vital that you address the issue as soon as possible.

Not only is it unsightly, but it can also trigger a number of health conditions. 

In particular, breathing problems such as asthma, allergies and infections can be triggered by black mould. 

If you spot symptoms such as sneezing, persistent runny noses, red and sore eyes, skin rashes or other similar conditions, then it may be as a result of black mould if you also have this problem within the home. If you touch or inhale any black mould spores then these risks are even more likely. 

Data from Asthma UK state that black mould can trigger an asthma attack in almost half of people who suffer from the condition. 

Furthermore, there have even been some cases in which chronic black mould has caused the death of children. 

With all of this considered, it’s clear to see why you should always look to remove black mould if it has appeared in your home. 

Signs Of Bathroom Mould 

There are several signs you should be looking out for that may indicate that bathroom mould is present in your bathroom.

This includes:

Smell: If you notice a persistent and unpleasant smell of dampness (even if you do not physically see anything) it could be a sign of mould. It may just have started forming, or has formed out of sight such as a hidden leak in a pipe. 

Dark appearance: If your wall or ceiling has a brown, muddy appearance or is covered in black and spotty mildew, it is likely black mould. 

Damaged walls or ceilings: If your walls or ceiling have crumbling plaster, have changed colour, blistered paint or cracked tiles, it could be a sign that moisture has got into the walls and is causing mould to grow.

Unstable floors: If you notice that your flooring has become spongy or soft underfoot, it means that moisture may be underneath and mould could be forming. 

How To Get Rid Of Mould In Bathroom 

If notice any signs of black mould in your bathroom, then you need to address the issue as soon as possible. 

For minor black mould infestations, the following household products may help:

Alcohol: Rubbing alcohol with a volume of 70% or a methylated spirit is a great way to remove a small amount of mould. You can get these products in supermarkets, pharmacies and hardware stores.

Vinegar: You could also try using vinegar, but this method should be reserved for mould that is only present on smooth surfaces. Vinegar will only remove fungal spores which is why it should only be used in small areas.

Bleach: Another good way to remove mould is to apply bleach to the area. However, it should only be used if the area is well-ventilated as breathing in bleach fumes can also be harmful. Always make sure a window is open or the bathroom extractor fan is on if using this method. 

How To Get Rid Of Mould On Bathroom Ceiling 

Ceilings are one of the most commonly affected bathroom areas when it comes to black mould. 

Before attempting to get rid of it, you should first establish whether the mould is forming as a result of a leak or if it is simply down to a lack of ventilation after bathing or showering. If a leak has occurred you should seek professional help to address the problem. 

Using your chosen method (as outlined above) spray the affected area and wipe clean with a rag. Be aware that if you have a painted ceiling then it may need repainting after the treatment. 

How To Get Rid Of Mould From Bathroom Walls

If mould has appeared on bathroom walls, the method is much the same as when tackling ceilings. 

However, if you have tiled walls then you may need to spray the chosen cleaning solution onto the walls in advance and leave for a few minutes to dry before scrubbing. Then, rinse the tiles. 

However, be aware, that if the mould has spread into the wall itself and spread throughout the entire surface, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to handle the problem yourself and professional support will likely be required.

How To Prevent Mould From Returning 

The best way to stop black mould from returning, or growing in the first place, is to ensure that your bathroom is as dry and free of moisture as possible. 

After you have had a shower or a bath, run your extractor fan for at least 30 minutes, remove wet towels and keep floors dry. The walls should also be wiped down daily to reduce water and the room should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected at least once a week.