Pink mold often appears near shower drains but, contrary to its name, it isn’t actually mold—it’s a type of bacteria. While generally not harmful, it can pose risks to individuals with weakened immune systems or those recovering from surgery.

Pink mold thrives in warm, damp environments and is commonly found on the inside rim of toilet bowls, the floor of tubs or showers, and around drains. In this article, we’ll explore what pink mold is, the factors that cause its growth in bathrooms and kitchens, its common locations, effective methods to remove it, and tips to prevent it from returning.

What is Pink Mold?

Pink mold is an airborne bacteria called Serratia marcescens. This bacterium feeds off fats and minerals found in bath soap, shampoo residue, mineral deposits from hard water, and even bodily waste particles found in the shower and toilet. Some common signs of pink mold growth include:

• A pink or reddish-pink slimy film on surfaces
• Allergic reactions such as coughing, sneezing, eye irritations, or skin rash
• A pungent odor that smells damp, musty, or earthy

Where is Pink Mold Commonly Found?

Pink mold typically thrives in humid, poorly ventilated environments, making bathrooms a common hot spot. It often appears around the inside rim of toilets, at the bottom of tubs or showers, and near drains. Kitchens can also fall victim to pink mold due to high humidity and frequent temperature fluctuations, where it can develop on various surfaces such as the caulk around the sink.

What Causes Pink Mold?

Bathrooms are a perfect breeding ground for bacteria due to constant exposure to moisture, warm temperatures, and organic residues from soaps and shampoos. The problem is often worsened by poor ventilation, which prevents moisture from evaporating effectively. Without sunlight and proper airflow, bacteria can thrive undisturbed.

Pink mold, a common issue in bathrooms, can also appear in kitchens. It tends to grow on various surfaces, including food, thanks to the high humidity caused by cooking and fluctuating temperatures. These conditions create an ideal environment for pink mold to flourish, making regular cleaning and proper ventilation essential in both spaces.

How to Remove Pink Mold in Bathrooms and Kitchens

Act quickly to remove pink mold from your bathroom or kitchen as soon as you spot it. Addressing it early prevents it from spreading and causing further damage.

Follow these steps to effectively eliminate pink mold and keep your space clean and safe:

1. Wear proper protective gear: Before you begin, make sure to wear gloves and a mask so you can be protected from bacteria.
2. Get the cleaning solution ready: Use 1 part bleach with 10 parts water and pour it in a spray bottle. You can also use an already made mold and mildew cleaner.
3. Apply the cleaning solution properly: Go ahead and spray the moldy area with the cleaning solution you made and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes.
4. Scrub out the area: Take a brush and scrub the area vigorously.
5. Rinse out the area and dry it: Make sure to rinse the area with warm water and dry it properly.

How to Prevent Pink Mold in Your Home

Preventing mold in your home is essential to avoid expensive repairs down the line. Here are some effective steps to help you keep it at bay:

• Make sure all surfaces are dry: After you’ve finished your shower, you will need to squeegee walls and your shower curtain.
• Run the fan: Make sure the bathroom is ventilated for at least 20 minutes after your shower.
• Do regular disinfections: All grout, seals, and corners should be cleaned with vinegar and baking soda.
• All soap residues should be limited: To ensure less soap residue, make sure to use liquid soap.

Professional Mold Removal and Remediation in Chicago, IL

Any type of mold you find in your home should be addressed immediately to prevent it from spreading and causing damage or adverse health effects. Pink mold is no exception. Make sure to keep an eye out for pink mold in your bathroom and kitchen and follow the steps outlined above to remove it effectively. If you encounter a mold problem in your home you cannot address yourself, it is best to call the professionals at HydroForce Cleaning and Restoration for help.

Have you experienced water damage or mold growth at home or business? Our professionals at HydroForce Cleaning and Restoration offer mold removal services to home and business owners in Chicago, IL, and the surrounding areas. We have the right tools, expertise, methods, and equipment to remove mold from your home or business and fully restore it back to its original state.

No matter the type of mold or the extent of the mold growth, you can trust our professionals to effectively contain and remove the mold to protect your home and help prevent it from returning.

To learn more about our mold remediation services in Chicago, IL, make sure to give us a call at (630) 835-0862 right away and we will respond immediately to your mold problem.