What Causes Pink Mould And Easy Ways To Remove It

Have you ever noticed hideous pink rings or orange film around your shower corners, bathtubs and bathroom tiles? These could be a pink mould infestation. While not as lethal as black mould spores, it can still cause respiratory issues, especially in people with compromised immune systems and pre-existing asthma.

It usually thrives in humid, wet and warm environments, such as bathrooms, basements and kitchen sink areas. You can also find it around the inner rim of your toilet seat and the drain area. Over time, pink mould darkens and spreads to other surfaces, leading to costly repairs and intense cleaning sessions. Whether you’re freshening up your abode or preparing for the final rental inspection, eliminating ghastly stains and gunk from every nook and cranny becomes essential for home hygiene.

So, here is a comprehensive guide to help you understand the causes of pink mould and useful removal tips for spotless results. With the right methods and effective products, you can promote a healthier and hygienic home environment.

Let’s Get Started!

1. What are the Causes of Pink Mould or Slime?

Pink mould is not a proper mould. It is a certain type of bacteria, known as Serratia marcescens. It usually feeds on body oil, soap/ shampoo residues, and mineral deposits, and is often found in damp areas like bathroom fixtures, fittings, grout lines and fabrics. Unfortunately, poor ventilation and inconsistent cleaning are other common causes of pink mould in your home.

Thus, it becomes essential to thoroughly inspect dark and humid areas of your property and eliminate mould infestation. You can also add on pest control service in your cheap vacate cleaning Perth package for a seamless experience at the end of your tenancy.

2. What are the Potential Health Concerns?

Most microbiologists believe pink mould isn't as harmful as black, grey and white mould and mildew. However, people with weak immunity systems and prolonged allergy symptoms may develop severe reactions and respiratory problems. It can even cause urinary tract infections if mould is found on the area under the toilet rim. So, it is always good to treat the pink slime as soon as you notice it in your home.

3. Things You’ll Need For Effective Removal

You don’t need fancy products or expensive tools to tackle pink mould from different surfaces. Natural cleaning products and DIY solutions can do wonders in achieving desired results. You may need white vinegar, tea tree oil, baking soda, liquid dish soap, microfiber cloth, a rubber squeegee, scrub brush, an old toothbrush, a clean towel and protective gear (rubber gloves, face mask and eyewear)

4. Step By Step Guide to Remove Pink Mould

It is super easy to clean such mould stains from your home. Open your windows and doors for proper ventilation and get started with the task:

Step 1: Safety Comes First: Wear Gloves

Ensure you wear protective gloves, a face mask and eyewear. This will protect you from direct exposure to the bacteria and mould. Pay special attention to open wounds and cuts.

Step 2: Prep the DIY Solution

Mix one cup of white vinegar with one cup of warm water, 2 tablespoons of dishwashing liquid soap and 10 drops of tea tree oil. White vinegar is an acidic agent that works wonders in removing mould stains and grime, while tea tree has antibacterial properties. Mix it well and pour it into a spray bottle.

Step 3: Submerge the Mould Stains into the Solution

Carefully spray the solution on the affected area, such as shower corners, glass doors, bathroom tiles, walls, sinks, etc. You should avoid using vinegar on natural stone surfaces like bathtubs and grout lines. Leave it for 10 to 20 minutes to effectively kill spores.

Step 4: Scrub! Scrub! Scrub!

Professional vacate cleaning Perth experts recommend using a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the mould stains off the surface. You can use an old toothbrush or a magic eraser for a gleaming shine. Scrub it in a circular motion with gentle hands. Repeat the process if required.

Step 5: Rinse and Wipe

Thoroughly rinse the area using plain water and wipe it down using a clean cloth.

Step 6: Dry off completely to prevent further growth

This is one of the crucial steps. Allow the cleaned surface to dry completely. This will help prevent mould re-infestation.

5. Use Baking Soda For Natural Stone Surfaces and Grout Lines

Prepare a thick paste by mixing one cup of baking soda and ¼ cup of warm water. Add a few drops of tea tree oil. Apply this paste to the grout lines and jetted tubs and let it sit for half an hour. Next, take a brush and gently scrub the area. Rinse and dry it for spotless outcomes.

6. Remove Pink Mould From Shower Curtains

Ensure you remove the curtain and liner from your shower area and toss it into the machine. It is good to run a hot water cycle with vinegar and laundry detergent. Before that, check the care label to prevent damage or discolouration. It is good to replace your old curtains with new ones to promote a clean and hygienic bathroom environment.

7. Preventive Measures: Keeping Pink Mould at Bay

This is one of the crucial parts of this guide. It is important to keep pink mould from coming back.

• It is good to run a squeegee after you bathe. This will help you remove soap scum and moisture buildup on walls and floors.
• Keep the exhaust fan on when showering to prevent condensation
• Close the shower curtain to let it dry fully between uses.
• Include bathroom cleaning in your comprehensive house cleaning checklist to keep soap scum, body oils and grime at bay.
• Book pest control with a budget vacate cleaning Perth service if running at the end of tenancy, and secure your bond money.

How to Remove Pink Mould From Your Home?

Wrapping Up

There is no rocket science behind removing pink mould and stains from surfaces. This guide has helped you understand the causes and signs of pink mould and effective removal techniques to create a healthier and spotless bathroom environment.