In a home, workspace or commercial property, having mould in a washroom not only looks dirty and unkept but can also pose some serious health risks to visitors, customers and employees, especially if they are being exposed for long periods. For businesses especially, washrooms can have a huge impact on the happiness of employees and also customer experience, so keeping these spaces in pristine condition can offer many benefits for both the user and the company's reputation.
Everyone knows that keeping the washroom clean and safe is one of the most important tasks, no matter what the environment and although keeping on top of general cleanliness can keep mould and dampness at bay, there are several things you can do to prevent these issues in the first place.
Why does mould grow and why is it found in washrooms?
Mould grows due to the presence of moisture, warmth, and organic matter, meeting some spaces are more prone to it than others due to their positioning, ventilation, direct sunlight and structural properties. As washrooms have a high usage of water, this means more mould may be present compared to other rooms in a home or commercial space.
Areas with high humidity or dampness provide the ideal conditions for mould growth. Sources of moisture in a washroom can include water leaks, condensation from showers or baths, or improper ventilation, which may be especially difficult for washrooms that don’t have windows. This also links to the fact that mould thrives in warm temperatures, something that can be caused by the above. These temperatures are typically active in areas such as gyms, spas and home bathrooms.
The last cause of mould growth is down to organic matter. In a washroom, organic matter can include soaps and lotions, body oils, hair, and other debris that accumulate on surfaces. These serve as a food source for mould, leaving it to grow on tiles, in grout and along fixtures.
How to avoid mould in your washroom
Maintaining a dry and mould-free washroom is essential not only for aesthetic reasons but also for the health and well-being of your users. From proper ventilation and regular cleaning to managing leaks and hiring a facilities manager, here are some of the key ways in which you can avoid mould growth in your washroom.
Proper ventilation
- Install a fan with sufficient capacity for the size of your washroom.
- Switch on the fan during and after showers or baths to remove excess moisture. Many modern fans can be activated when lights come on or there is movement in the space.
- Keep windows open as much as possible, especially when water is being used. Find out more about ventilating a washroom with no window here.
Use a dehumidifier
In areas with consistently high humidity or inadequate ventilation, a dehumidifier can be a beneficial tool to control moisture levels. You should also male sure to empty and clean the dehumidifier's water reservoir regularly to prevent mould and bacteria growth inside the device.
Regular cleaning
Develop a regular cleaning routine for your washroom, focusing on areas prone to moisture buildup such as shower cubicles, bathtubs, wet rooms, sinks, and toilet cubicles. You can find many mould and mildew-resistant cleaners to effectively remove existing mould and prevent its recurrence.
If you are a business or organisation such as a school, it’s a good idea to invest in facility teams to handle this type of maintenance as your washrooms will have a high number of foot traffic throughout the day.
Drying and wiping down surfaces
After each use, use a squeegee or towel to remove excess water from shower screens, doors, windows and floors. Consider leaving the shower curtain or door partially open after use to allow air circulation and promote drying.
Fix leaks and cracks
- Regularly inspect plumbing fixtures, pipes, and seals for any signs of leaks, such as water stains or dripping.
- Repair leaks promptly to prevent water damage and dampness, which can lead to mould growth behind walls or under flooring.
- Consider a washroom refurbishment if your space is looking tired and outdated.
Washroom refurbishments across the UK
Sometimes washrooms can become tired and may need a bit of TLC. That's where inspired washrooms come in. We offer washroom refurbishments and fit out's for a range of commercial businesses across the UK including schools, offices, hotels, gyms and industrial facilities.
If you own a commercial space or are part of a team who are looking for a washroom upgrade, get in touch with our team or visit our service pages for more information.