Mold can be found virtually anywhere where the perfect combination of moisture levels, temperatures and food sources flourish. If gone unchecked, and un-maintained, the bathroom is the perfect setting for mold and mildew to overcome and take over the grout and tile. Grout is an extremely porous material that harbors mildew and mold beneath the surface, and by the time it does manifest to the surface layer, there could be a need to replace the grout itself.
Las Vegas Floor Restoration would like to share some prevention tips and a few steps to resolve a problem if one does appear.
Mold & Mildew Prevention: Mold cannot grow in dry areas, so if nothing else, keep your bathroom, or other susceptible places, dry.
1. Flip the fan on. When using the shower or bath, the humidity levels rise very high, creating condensation and moisture. Before you hop in the shower or bath, turn the ceiling fan on, and if applicable, crack the window. Leave them on or open for 15 minutes after to help dry out the bathroom faster.
2. Wipe it down. Pick up a small squeegee at any hardware store. After each shower or bath, use the squeegee to slick off the moisture. For extra diligence, use a dry towel to blot the grout and corners to absorb any missed water left behind by the squeegee.
3. Machine washable shower curtain is optimal. Skip the plastic or vinyl shower curtain. Fabrics such as cotton, hemp, or nylon can get tossed in the washing machine. Once a week at a minimum, wash the shower curtain in the hot water setting, and make sure to use the spin cycle to remove excess water. Hang the curtain back in place and spread it out so it can air dry thoroughly.
4. Decide on whether to utilize a non-slip shower mat. Unfortunately, the non-slip shower mat is a contributing factor in breeding mold and mildew. They need to be cleaned and dried daily with a penetrating, nonabrasive cleanser. If it is worth the extra cleaning, keep it around.
5. Keep it clean. The shower, bathtub and surrounding walls and ceiling need to be cleaned a minimum of once a week with a nonabrasive cleaning detergent. Scrub everything down. If you can’t reach the ceiling and higher areas, use a mop. Be sure to dry well.
6. Fix Leaks. Even a subtle drip can help fester mold and mildew. If you have malfunctioning fixtures, get them fixed.
Mold & Mildew Outbreak Cleanup: Be sure to wear a surgical mask and gloves; especially if you have allergies, asthma, or any other respiratory issues.
1. Depending on how bad the infestation is, and your preferred solution, you can choose one of the following home remedies:
– In a spray bottle, combine 1 cup of water with 2 tsp of hydrogen peroxide. Ratio can be adjusted for more potency if needed. Do note, hydrogen peroxide has the potential to lighten the color of grout, so conduct a test patch in an inconspicuous area.
– In a spray bottle, combine 1 cup of water with 2 tsp of white vinegar. Ratio can be adjusted for more potency if needed. Where this solution works fairly where, many people are not fond of the white vinegar smell.
– In a spray bottle, combine 1 cup of water with 2 tsp tea tree oil. Experts say tea tree oil is most effective against mold and mildew, but can become pricey.
2. Open a window and flip on the ceiling fan to prevent any overbearing odors.
3. Apply your preferred solution directly on the infected area and surrounding uncontaminated areas, and leave it to set for 15 minutes. On a sponge, or rag you can toss, scrub away the mold and mildew.
4. Rinse thoroughly with hot water.
5. Dry area well.
6. If mold does not come off, you may have to remove the old grout and replace it.
