Keeping bathroom mould away with ventilation and a five-minute habit

Cutting down the time surfaces stay wet is the simplest way to stop mould coming back.

This article focuses on steps you can apply straight away, while pointing out what to check so you do not follow them mechanically. Adjust them to your actual circumstances, to the manufacturer's instructions and to the rules where you live or are visiting.

How to do it, step by step

1. Run the extractor fan or open a window while you shower

Run the extractor fan or open a window while you shower. Get all the tools ready before you start, look at the result after each step, and stop if anything looks unsafe or different from what you expected. Going slowly the first time usually saves the time it would take to put mistakes right later.

2. Squeegee the walls and floor, and hang the curtain out to dry

Squeegee the walls and floor, and hang the curtain out to dry. Get all the tools ready before you start, look at the result after each step, and stop if anything looks unsafe or different from what you expected. Going slowly the first time usually saves the time it would take to put mistakes right later.

3. Wash towels and mats regularly and never leave wet things in a pile

Wash towels and mats regularly and never leave wet things in a pile. Get all the tools ready before you start, look at the result after each step, and stop if anything looks unsafe or different from what you expected. Going slowly the first time usually saves the time it would take to put mistakes right later.

4. Fix leaks and clean small patches of mould with a suitable product

Fix leaks and clean small patches of mould with a suitable product. Get all the tools ready before you start, look at the result after each step, and stop if anything looks unsafe or different from what you expected. Going slowly the first time usually saves the time it would take to put mistakes right later.

5. Call a specialist if the mould spreads or water is getting into the structure

Call a specialist if the mould spreads or water is getting into the structure. Get all the tools ready before you start, look at the result after each step, and stop if anything looks unsafe or different from what you expected. Going slowly the first time usually saves the time it would take to put mistakes right later.

A quick checklist

• Check the actual conditions and have a fallback ready.
• Put safety and hygiene first, along with the official instructions for the device or from the local authorities.
• Try it on a small area before applying it everywhere.
• Write down what worked so it goes faster next time.

Common mistakes

The usual mistakes are skipping the checking step, using too much product, or pressing on after the conditions have changed. Do not mix chemicals, do not take on electrical or structural repairs without the expertise, and never trade safety for a few saved minutes.

In closing

Cutting down the time surfaces stay wet is the simplest way to stop mould coming back. Start with the simple version, review it once you have done it, and keep it up as a habit that suits your household or your travels.