Pink mold–also called pink mildew–is not caused by mold spores. It is a water-borne and air-borne bacteria–Serratia marcescens. It feeds on the fats and phosphorus found in soap scum. Pink mold can also appear pinkish-orange color, orange, or reddish.
Is Pink Mold Dangerous?
Pink mold is not as dangerous as black mold but it can cause health problems. Healthy people are usually safe but anyone with a compromised immune system–especially young children and the elderly–is at risk. Almost 1.5% of hospital infections are caused by pink mold. It can also cause infections in pets.
- Eye Infections. Especially from contaminated contact lenses.
- Urinary Tract Infections. Quite often contracted by hospital patients.
- Breathing Difficulties. Can trigger asthma attacks. Coughing, sneezing, runny nose.
- Wound Infections. Can lead to blood poisoning.
- Skin Problems. Dry scaly skin. Rashes. Itching.
How To Remove Pink Mold
Finding pink mold in your house is usually not an emergency, but don’t ignore it. Getting rid of small patches of pink mold is easier than dealing with black mold and usually does not require a professional. All of the following cleaning products get rid of pink mold.
Cleaning Solution Options
Do not mix these products together. They can produce toxic fumes.
- Bleach. Mix one part bleach with 10 parts water.
- Vinegar. Use vinegar undiluted.
- Hydrogen Peroxide. Use 3% hydrogen peroxide undiluted.
- Borax. Mix one cup of borax into one gallon of water. Stir well to dissolve the borax completely.
Apply any of these cleaners to the mold with a spray bottle, cloth, sponge, or brush. Ensure that the mold is completely soaked. Wait about an hour to give the solution time to work. Remove all of the dead mold with a sponge or brush. Rinse well with clean water using a sponge or brush to get all of the pink mold.
For difficult infestations–such as grout–mix four parts baking soda with one part dish detergent and scrub first. Then clean it with one of the other solutions.
Shower Curtains
Shower curtains are susceptible to pink mold because they often remain wet for long periods after showers. Put them in the washing machine with a few towels. Add a half cup of baking soda to the drum and a half cup of liquid laundry detergent to the dispenser. Wash on a delicate setting. Hang the shower curtain to dry. Check cleaning instructions before washing.
Where Does Pink Mold Grow
Pink mold bacteria is everywhere. It becomes a problem when it finds the right combination of food and moisture. Pink mold can be found in many locations in the home. Left unchecked, it spreads to walls, floors, and surrounding areas.
- Bathrooms. Tubs, showers, toilets, and vanities.
- Kitchens. Sink, drains, countertop.
- Dishwashers. Clean by running a cycle with vinegar. No dishes.
- Humidifiers. Soak filters in vinegar or hydrogen peroxide. Use one of the cleaning solutions to clean the rest of the machine.
- Food. Discard. Find the source of the mold–refrigerator, bread box, cutting board, etc.–and clean thoroughly.
How To Prevent Pink Mold
Keep it clean and dry are the two best bathroom cleaning tips you should know when dealing with pink mold. Some things that help prevent pink mold include:
- Run the bathroom fan for at least an hour after showers.
- Wipe down shower walls, floors, and doors. Use a squeegee.
- Wipe down all faucets, sinks, and countertops after use to remove moisture and soap scum that pink mold feeds on.
