Is Black Mold in a Shower Dangerous?

Bathrooms are an area that sometimes doesn’t have the best ventilation and can have a lot of moisture. Besides cleaning the toilets and sinks, the tub and shower also need to be cared for. Black mold is a common problem that many people encounter in their showers. This type of mold, scientifically known as Stachybotrys chartarum, can be unsightly and harmful to your health if left untreated. Is black mold in a shower dangerous? It can be as it can cause allergic reactions, lung infections, respiratory issues, and asthma attacks. If you have it in your shower, you need to take care of it right away.

Let’s learn more about black mold.

What is Black Mold?

Black mold, or Stachybotrys chartarum, is a type of fungi that can grow both indoors and outdoors. It appears as dark greenish-black patches and thrives in damp and humid environments. While black mold is commonly found in areas with excessive moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens, it can also develop in other parts of the house like basements, crawl spaces, and attics. Black mold smells like a pile of dirt and is musty so that will also help you to know if you may have it in the home.

Why Does Black Mold Grow in the Shower?

The shower provides an ideal environment for black mold growth due to the consistent presence of moisture and high humidity levels. Showers are often poorly ventilated, allowing water to accumulate on surfaces and create a breeding ground for mold spores. Additionally, organic materials like soap scum, dirt, and dead skin cells that are commonly found in showers serve as a food source for mold, further facilitating its growth.

Is Black Mold in the Shower Dangerous?

Black mold should not be taken lightly, as it can pose various health risks. Exposure to black mold spores can cause allergic reactions, and respiratory problems, and can even trigger asthma attacks in susceptible individuals. Prolonged exposure to black mold can also lead to more severe health issues, including lung infections and chronic sinusitis. Therefore, it is crucial to address black mold infestations promptly to prevent these potential health hazards.

How to Get Rid of Black Mold?

Removing black mold from your shower can be a challenging task, but it’s necessary for maintaining a healthy living environment. Here are some steps to effectively eliminate black mold:

1. Put on protective gear like gloves, goggles, and a mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
2. Ventilate the area by opening windows or running fans to prevent the spread of mold spores.
3. Mix a solution of equal parts water and bleach or hydrogen peroxide. Apply the mixture to affected areas with a scrub brush or sponge.
4. Scrub the mold-infested surfaces vigorously until all visible mold is removed.
5. Rinse the cleaned surfaces thoroughly with clean water.
6. Dry the area completely using fans or dehumidifiers to prevent moisture from promoting future mold growth.
7. Dispose of any contaminated materials, such as rags or brushes, in sealed bags.

How to Keep Black Mold Away?

Preventing black mold growth in your shower requires consistent maintenance and a few simple precautions. Here are some tips to keep black mold at bay:

1. Improve ventilation in your bathroom by using exhaust fans or open windows after showering to reduce humidity levels.
2. Clean and dry your shower regularly, paying attention to corners, grout lines, and areas prone to moisture accumulation.
3. Use mold-resistant shower curtains or liners, as they are designed to inhibit mold growth.
4. Avoid leaving wet towels or clothing in the bathroom; instead, hang them up to dry promptly.
5. Fix any leaks or plumbing issues that could result in excess moisture.
6. Consider installing a dehumidifier to maintain optimal humidity levels in your bathroom.

Here are some tips below about cleaning a moldy shower.

Other Recommended Maintenance

Now that you know about black mold in the shower, let’s look at some other areas of recommended maintenance. One of those is flushing the toilet while showering. Many homeowners think that if you flush the toilet while showering, it will make the shower colder. Thee opposite is true. It makes the shower hotter as the toilet pulls the cold water.

Another is checking if your hot water is cloudy. If you notice that your hot water is cloudy, this could be due to air bubbles, mineral deposits, dissolved gases, or water heater issues. It is important to find out what is causing it.

Lastly, understand that the exhaust fan is important in a bathroom. However, sometimes you don’t have access to the attic but you can install one by following the steps. An exhaust fan helps keep the moisture and humidity low in the bathroom.

When to Call a Professional?

While tackling small-scale black mold infestations can often be done independently, there are instances when it’s best to call a professional mold remediation specialist. These situations may include:

1. Large or widespread mold growth that exceeds ten square feet.
2. Mold infestations in difficult-to-access areas like inside walls or beneath flooring.
3. Severe water damage, such as flooding, that has led to extensive mold growth.
4. Suspected mold-related health issues that require a thorough inspection and testing.

Professional mold remediation experts possess the necessary equipment, expertise, and experience to handle complex mold problems safely and effectively.

Conclusion

Black mold in the shower is a common problem that requires swift action to prevent health issues and property damage. By understanding what black mold is, why it grows in showers, its potential dangers, and how to remove and prevent it, you can maintain a clean and healthy bathroom environment.

Remember to be proactive in regularly cleaning and ventilating your shower, as well as promptly addressing any moisture-related issues to keep black mold at bay. If faced with extensive mold growth or health concerns, do not hesitate to contact Honor Services for proper remediation.  Honor Services is your best home Inspection and mold inspection company In Brevard County, FL.