Bathrooms are the perfect breeding ground for mould. With constant exposure to humidity and damp surfaces, it doesn’t take long for mould to develop if preventative measures aren’t taken. Not only is mould unsightly, but it can also cause health issues and structural damage if left unchecked. At ResiSure, we provide landlords, BTR operators, social housing providers and property managers with advanced technology to monitor humidity, damp, and mould risks. But even with cutting-edge technology, prevention is always better than cure. But how do you prevent mould in the bathroom in the first place?
Why Is Mould Common in Bathrooms?
Bathrooms are inherently humid spaces. Hot showers and baths create condensation, which settles on walls, ceilings, and grout—poor ventilation, lingering moisture, and organic residues like soap scum further fuel mould growth. Without regular maintenance and adequate airflow, mould can quickly take hold, causing damage and potential health risks. But how can you stop mould in its tracks before it takes over the bathroom?
How do you Prevent Mould in the Bathroom? Top Tips
1. Improve Ventilation
Good airflow is key to reducing humidity. After using the shower or bath, advise your tenants to:
- Open a window to let out steam.
- Use an extractor fan to vent moisture outside.
- Leave the bathroom door open when possible to improve air circulation.
For windowless bathrooms, invest in a dehumidifier or ventilation system to keep the air dry.
2. Dry Surfaces After Use
Moisture left on tiles, grouting, and shower trays provides the perfect habitat for mould. Your tenants should wipe down wet surfaces after every use, including:
- Shower walls and screens.
- Bathtub and sink.
- Bathroom tiles and grout.
A simple microfiber cloth or squeegee can make all the difference.
3. Maintain Bathroom Textiles
Textiles like towels, rugs, and shower curtains can trap moisture. To keep mould at bay:
- Extend the shower curtain fully after use to prevent creases where water can collect.
- Replace hand towels every two to three days and bath towels weekly.
- Wash shower curtains regularly or choose mould-resistant materials.
4. Monitor Humidity Levels
Keeping bathroom humidity between 50-70% is ideal. If mould is a particularly worrisome issue in your property, use a hygrometer to monitor levels and act when they rise. You can also place moisture-absorbing sachets or crystals in discreet areas for added control.
5. Use Mould-Resistant Materials
When renovating or redecorating a bathroom, consider:
- Mould-resistant paints for walls and ceilings.
- Mould-resistant sealants around sinks, baths, and showers.
- Grout-free designs with smooth, easy-to-clean materials.
These options minimise surfaces where mould can grow and make cleaning easier.
6. Heat the Bathroom
Bathrooms should ideally be heated to 23°C to prevent condensation. Even when not in use, keeping the space slightly warm helps reduce moisture buildup.
7. Incorporate Air-Purifying Plants
Certain plants can absorb moisture and improve air quality, making them great allies in mould prevention. Consider adding:
- English Ivy: Removes airborne mould spores.
- Boston Fern: Thrives in humid environments.
- Reed Palm: Absorbs moisture through its leaves.
- Tillandsia: Perfect for bathrooms with natural light.
8. Establish A Regular Cleaning Routine
A weekly cleaning schedule will help remove mould-promoting residues like soap scum and limescale. Ask your tenants to pay special attention to:
- Tiles and grout.
- Shower trays and screens.
- Corners and hidden crevices.
Natural remedies like white vinegar and baking soda are effective and eco-friendly ways to clean. For persistent issues, consider products specifically designed to prevent mould regrowth.
How ResiSure Can Help
Preventing bathroom mould requires a proactive approach, combining proper ventilation, regular cleaning, and effective moisture control. By following these tips and leveraging advanced monitoring solutions like ResiSure, you can protect the bathrooms in your properties– and your tenants – from the harmful effects of mould.
While these tips can help prevent bathroom mould, ResiSure can put you one step ahead. Our technology provides an extra layer of protection by giving you the power to prevent mould accumulation before it takes hold in a bathroom and stop mould coming back time and time again. ResiSure offers monitoring solutions that track humidity, damp, and mould risk in real time, allowing you to understand trends and take action before your bathroom falls into disrepair. By addressing potential problems before they escalate, ResiSure supports landlords and property managers in creating healthier living environments for residents, saving you time, money and hassle.
Stay Proactive With ResiSure
Want to find out more about tenant-focused legislation that could impact your portfolio or managed properties? Stay in the loop with the latest in property compliance with our free-to-download guide to the Renters’ Rights Bill across the Private Rented Sector. Inside, you’ll find invaluable insights into upcoming legislation, and why issues such as mould prevention across your properties are set to be so critical in 2025 and beyond – fill out the form below to download your guide!