Preventing & Removing Bathroom Mold

Check common mold locations: shower grout, caulking, under sinks, around toilets, and ceiling corners. Look for black, green, or brown spots and musty odors. Document severe areas that may need professional attention.

Open windows and turn on exhaust fans before starting. Mold spores become airborne during cleaning, so proper ventilation is crucial. If possible, aim a fan toward an open window to direct air outside.

Spray affected areas with commercial mold remover or a mixture of 1 part vinegar to 1 part water. For porous surfaces like grout, let the solution sit for 10-15 minutes to penetrate deeply. For hard surfaces, 5 minutes is sufficient.

Using a stiff brush, scrub the moldy areas in circular motions. For grout, use a specialized grout brush. Apply baking soda paste (3 parts baking soda, 1 part water) to stubborn spots for extra scrubbing power.

Rinse all surfaces thoroughly with clean water. Use a squeegee or microfiber cloth to remove all moisture. Wet surfaces allow mold to return, so this step is critical. Run the exhaust fan for at least 30 minutes after cleaning.

Fix any leaks immediately. Run exhaust fan during and 20 minutes after showers. Keep bathroom door open when possible. Squeegee shower walls after each use. Wash bath mats and shower curtains regularly.