Preventing Mold in the Bathroom

The bathroom is a prime breeding ground for mold. The combination of a confined space and moist air are a certain recipe for this natural fungus. Once mold is present in the bathroom, or anywhere in the home, it can quickly grow and spread into an unsightly, and unhealthy, level. Don't wait until you can see mold in the bathroom until it becomes a concern - Do what you can to prevent it from forming in the first place.

After you shower or bathe, the bathroom mirror is foggy and lightly coated with condensation. This is a prime example of how quickly moist air can coat other areas of the bathroom too, including the walls. Walls are made out of, for the most part, paper drywall products. Mold LOVES paper! Particle board, paper drywall, and other paper-based building products are all commonly used in the bathroom and won't pose any problems if the proper precautions are taken to prevent mold growth.

Mold resistant drywall

Many new homes are switching from the standard paper-based drywall to a new and improved mold resistant alternative. With a fiberglass mat embedded between the inner slabs, the moist conditions that mold likes to feed on simply aren't there. Keep in mind, this is not a mold-proof product. Mold can form, but the likelihood of it are reduced significantly. This is especially true when other steps are taken to prevent mold in the bathroom.

Ventilation

Every bathroom should have a quality ventilation system in place to capture and release water vapor. In fact, most states have building codes that require a vent fan in all windowless bathrooms to prevent mold growth. If your home doesn't have a vent fan in the bathrooms, have them installed by a professional. Then, use then each time you shower or bathe.

Mold resistant paint

A simple way of preventing mold is to use a mold resistant paint. This type of paint sells for about the same price as others, is washable, can be tinted to many colors, and contains additives that help keep moisture at bay. Paint the walls and ceiling with this type of paint to help prevent mold growth before it starts. Zinsser makes several different formulas that are low-odor, easy to use, and highly effective.

Avoid wallpaper

Many homeowners are shocked to find the presence of mold behind wallpaper in the bathroom. That's right, it can be there without your knowledge. Why? Because mold loves paper. Moisture gets behind a curling or lifting corner of wallpaper and can very quickly grow to a dangerous level. By the time you decide to strip the wallpaper down, it can be covering the entire wall surface beneath. It's best to avoid wallpaper altogether in this moisture-prone area. You simply can't see what's lurking beneath.

Wipe down moist surfaces

After you bathe or shower, wipe away excess moisture from walls, windows, and so on. In addition, a mold and mildew remover should be used at least once a month. Tilex makes several sprays that can prevent mold or combat it once it forms.

More from Jennifer Wagner:

What's Causing Your Musty Basement Odor?

Improve the Air Quality in Your Home

10 Inexpensive Energy Saving Tips

Source:

Personal knowledge