If you have noticed a funky smell in your shower, discoloration on your tiles and sink, or experienced allergic reactions when using the bathroom, molds or mildew could be the culprit. There is no denying how it can affect your usual routines and even your health. If the presence of mold or mildew is because of pipe leaks or clogged drains, it is best to call a professional plumber to fix it instead.
Are mold and mildew the same?
Yes and no. Yes, because both are fungi. However, mold sticks on the surface it lives on, while mildew looks powdery or fluffy at first look. Mold looks darker, like dark green or almost black. Mildew, on the other hand, appears yellowish or white and turns brown or gray over time.
Whether you have mold or mildew at home, you should get rid of it immediately. The first thing you should do is to prevent mold or mildew growth and identify the culprits causing the growth. Here are the common signs of mold in bathrooms:
Musty/damp smell
If you notice a musty or damp smell in your bathroom, similar to the smell of rotting wood or wet carpet, it could be because of mildew.
The appearance of mold and mildew
Mold and mildew often grow in moist areas such as the bathroom, especially the sink, around the toilet base, or tiles.
Respiratory problems
Mold and mildew are also common triggers for asthma and other allergic reactions. Common symptoms of allergic reactions include constant sneezing or coughing, teary eyes, wheezing, sore throat, and breathing difficulties, in worst cases. If one or more symptoms appear every time you use the bathroom, it could be because of mold or mildew.
How to get rid of mold in your bathroom
To prevent the abovementioned things from happening in your bathroom, you should get rid of the source. Here are ways you can make your bathroom clean and mold-free:
Install a ventilation fan.
Ventilation is important to keep away mold and mildew from thriving in your bathroom. If your bathroom has no windows, ventilation fans are a must.
Clean your bathroom regularly.
Mold and mildew thrive in a dirty bathroom. So if you don’t want them in your bathroom, you should already know what to do. Keep windows or ventilation fan open (whichever is applicable), mop up excess water and damp surfaces, and use the right bathroom cleaning products to keep it clean and shiny.
Replace cracked tiles and other bathroom fixtures.
Water seeps in on cracked tiles or grouts and leads to the formation of mold and mildew. Make sure to replace or reseal your broken grout to prevent mold formation.
Fix leaky pipes and clogged drains.
Broken pipes or drains can also lead to mold and mildew formation and cause problems to your health and household. Better yet, call a professional plumbing service in Spring Hill, TN, to solve your pipe and drain problems today!
