What Is Pink Mold?
First, pink mold is not mold, even though that’s what many people call it, along with pink mildew and pink slime. The substance is a combination of unsightly microbes.“It’s a type of waterborne bacteria called Serratia marcescens,” Eliana Coca, owner of E.C. House Cleaning, said. “It thrives in moist environments and feeds on fatty substances like soap scum and shampoo residue, making bathrooms a common battleground.”
Pink mold is unlikely to harm most healthy people.
“It’s a mix of very common microbes that are generally in everyone’s home at all times,” Nick Valentino, vice president of market operations at Bellhop Atlanta Movers, said.
Pink Mold Causes
Pink mold grows quickly under the right conditions, including damp and warm places filled with organic material, according to Coca, making bathtubs and showers easy targets. The bacterial colony thrives on wet surfaces, such as tile grout, silicone seals, shower tile walls, and shower curtains. The sticky stuff also likes organic matter that offers nutrients to help the bacteria thrive, such as soap scum, shampoo residue, dead skin cells, and body oils.How to Remove Pink Mold From the Shower
Getting rid of pink mold starts with a good cleaning. To begin, Coca advises that the bathroom should be well-ventilated and that anyone tackling this yucky stuff wear gloves.“Cleaning practices to effectively remove pink mold include using a solution of one part vinegar to one part water, or for more stubborn cases, a bleach-based bathroom cleaner,” she said.
After creating the cleaning solution, scrub the surface with a scrub brush, sponge, or scrubbing pad.
How to Prevent Pink Mold
Prevention is not just about a thorough one-time clean.“The best way to keep pink mold in check is to regularly clean your tub or shower with a bleach solution at least once weekly, and to make sure your bathroom is adequately ventilated,” Valentino advised.
Coca added, “Regularly cleaning and drying shower walls and floors are crucial because Serratia marcescens can quickly colonize when there’s enough moisture and organic material to feed on.”
She noted that a mold-free shower means regularly wiping down surfaces to prevent soap scum buildup and ensuring the area is completely dry.
Proper ventilation keeps dampness and moisture levels under control.
“If you have an exhaust fan, make sure you run it for several minutes after every bath or shower,” Valentino said.