At Bathware Direct, we understand the importance of every facet - from tap choice to heated towel rails to ensuring your bathroom is long-lasting for generations to come.
Now - picture this; the bathroom renovation is finally done and all that’s left to do is to kick your feet up and take a long hot soak in that new bath of yours. Finally, there’s nothing more to do but enjoy your new renovation or build. Except, what can be easy to forget in the joy of a new or renewed space is that proper aftercare is required to keep it spic and span.
Lurking in the shadows of your new bathroom are annoying pesky fungi that thrive in damp, humid environments; mould and mildew (we all know the type). Not only a potential risk to your health, mould and mildew can also invade the beautiful new fittings, such as the tiles in your shower, your bathroom vanity or even your ceiling if left untreated for a long period of time. Taking proper care of your bathroom is the only way to ensure your home oasis remains mould and mildew free.
Understanding the Threat: The Dangers of Mould and Mildew
Let’s get the icky bits out of the way shall we! Mould and mildew are not just unsightly nuisances, they can also pose serious health risks to humans and animals. These fungi are made up of millions of spores which are released into the air, known to cause allergic reactions and respiratory issues for individuals with already compromised immune systems. Prolonged exposure to these nasties have been attributed to several other chronic health conditions, making it absolutely essential to keep your bathroom mould and mildew free.
Ventilation: It Matters More than you Think
Let’s start with ventilation in all shapes and sizes - we’ve broken down some key reasons as to why investing in a ventilation system that’s going to look after you and your bathroom is essential.
Moisture Control:
A good extraction fan will remove excess moisture from the air, which means it’s much harder for fungi to grow. Moisture is the primary fuel for these nasties to grow. Without ventilation, steam from showers, baths or any activity at your bathroom vanity really can create the perfect breeding ground for fungi. A well ventilated space keeps moisture to a minimum, and thus, reducing the risk of any growth.
Air Circulation:
In addition to keeping the environment drier, good ventilation will also promote air circulation, prevent stagnant pockets of air. This has the added benefit of circulating heat more evenly, which aids in the removal of condensation and, therefore, mould and mildew growth.
Odour Elimination:
This might not be directly related to undesired fungi growth, but an additional bonus of ensuring your bathroom has sufficient ventilation is that it will help to eliminate unpleasant odours from the bathroom. By cycling old and new air around the space, bad smells have the chance to be released from the space in favour of newer, fresher air. Every detail counts when it comes to maintaining your bathroom, and ensuring there’s no bad smells will help it feeling like a divine oasis.
How to Incorporate Good Ventilation into your Bathroom
Now that we understand the importance of ventilation, let's explore some practical tips for keeping your bathroom fresh, dry, and mould-free:
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Install an Exhaust Fan:
An exhaust fan is a simple yet effective way to improve ventilation in your bathroom. It is standard practice to have one of these devices in every bathroom, however that does not already mean it is working perfectly. We suggest replacing your exhaust fan every couple of years, or whenever it starts to lose power. It is also good to note these item gather dust over the years, so make sure to give it a wipe every now and then to keep it in good working order.
- Keep Windows Open:
In addition to the fan, prop your bathroom window open if you have access to one. Try this before and after a bath or shower, you’ll immediately notice the difference.
- Use a Dehumidifier:
If your space is particularly tricky to ventilate, or you're located in a hot and humid climate, it might be worth investing in a dehumidifier to really stay on top of mould and mildew growth. Place the dehumidifier in a central location in the bathroom – you’ll be surprised just how much moisture is in the air!
- Clean and Dry Surfaces:
Regularly clean and dry bathroom surfaces to prevent mould and mildew from taking hold. Pay special attention to areas prone to moisture buildup, such as shower walls, grout lines, bathroom vanities and ceilings. Use a mildew-resistant cleaner and a squeegee to remove excess water after showering. Tip: hand the squeegee in the shower and use it after every use. It really doesn’t take more than a few seconds to get the job done.
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Repair Leaks Promptly: Address any plumbing leaks or water damage promptly to prevent moisture from accumulating behind walls or under flooring. Repair leaky taps, dripping pipes, and damaged seals to keep moisture levels in check and prevent mould and mildew growth.
In the battle against mould and mildew, proper ventilation is your strongest ally. By implementing these tips and techniques for effective bathroom ventilation, you can create a clean, dry, and healthy environment that promotes wellness and comfort. Remember, these tips are ever useful if you actually implement them. So go on, turn on your exhaust fan, open the window, and wipe down excess water. Say goodbye to musty odours and unsightly mould stains – with proper ventilation, your bathroom can remain a sanctuary of cleanliness and tranquillity for years to come.