Mold is a form of fungus that grows in damp conditions and breeds quickly. It can cause respiratory issues and attack the nervous system. Heat and moisture are mold’s best friend and the perfect place to grow it is in your bathtub or shower. The grout in your tile, your bath mat, your shower curtain liner… all places mold loves to thrive.
What is crucial is that you eliminate mold as soon as you notice it so it doesn’t get out of control. Traditional cleaners may remove some of the problem but tend to leave more spores than necessary. Here’s how to fight it properly…
Get some white vinegar and a clean spray bottle of some kind. Douse the affected areas as best as you can. You want to hit everything – tile, grout, walls – and let it sit for between 1 to 2 hours.
Using a damp cloth, scrub the mold away. For crevices, use a stiff-bristled toothbrush.
Severe mold that persists needs a baking soda concoction. Mix 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water and smear the paste onto the mold. Spray it with vinegar and then use a scouring pad or damp cloth (depending on how tough the mold is) to remove.
Rinse all areas with water and keep repeating the above step for tough mold buildup.
Take your bath mat, flip it over and pour bleach into the tub while you run water. Toss your shower curtain liner in there as well.
To reduce the risk of rampant mold growth after you shower, make sure your bathroom stays dry and well-ventilated. During and after a shower or bath, keep your window open or vent fan on. Try to wipe away excess water in sinks and tubs after use.
