HOW TO CLEAN BLACK MOLD IN THE SHOWER

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How to clean black mold in the shower.

In order to get rid of black mold in the shower, follow my simple and totally natural recipe. It uses only dish soap, undiluted vinegar and essential oils!

Read the post for all the info on how to treat mold naturally, without the use of harsh chemicals and toxins in your home.

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Is mold in shower normal?

Black bathroom mold is a very common issue in many households….mine included!

However, although common, mold in the shower areas is not normal. Often it is a sign of a more serious issue that needs to be addressed asap.

This dangerous mold can grow anywhere in your shower, whether on the caulk, grout, tiles, shower curtain, etc. You can find mold stains even around windows and on the bathroom ceiling.

It is very important to know that black mold presents health risks. As a consequence, you should try to get rid of it as soon as possible when you see it.

IMPORTANT

It is important to take black mold growth seriously and address it as soon as possible, as prolonged exposure to mycotoxins can cause serious health issues. If you are unsure about how to handle the situation, it is recommended to seek the help of a professional mold remediation company to safely and effectively remove the mold.

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I have written several blog posts on homemade cleaning solution and home remedies you could make up easily with baking soda to tackle many jobs around your home.

For example:

How to get rid of fleas in your home fast using natural ingredients

How to get rid of smell in garbage disposal 

The best DIY couch stain remover recipes

How to clean carpet smell: homemade recipes that really work

How to make all natural laundry scent boosters

Homemade non toxic fabric softener

The best home remedies for smelly shoes 

How to clean sticky wood kitchen cabinets

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WHAT CAUSES BLACK MOLD IN THE SHOWER?

Black mold in the shower is usually caused by the growth of a type of fungus called Stachybotrys chartarum. This fungus thrives in moist, warm environments, making the shower an ideal environment and a perfect breeding ground.

There are several factors that contribute to the growth of black mold in showers:

Excess Moisture 

Showers are a naturally moist environment, and if the shower is not adequately ventilated or dried after each use, moisture can accumulate and create a suitable environment for mold growth.

Lack of ventilation  

Poor ventilation can cause moisture to build up and prevent proper airflow, which can also contribute to mold growth. Always ensure adequate ventilation in your bathroom, especially when showering.

Organic materials

Mold requires organic material to grow, so any soap scum, dirt, or other organic debris in the shower can provide a food source for the mold.

Humidity

High humidity levels in the home can also contribute to the growth of mold in the shower.

To prevent black mold growth in the shower, it is important to keep the area dry and well-ventilated. Regular cleaning with a mild detergent and regular use of a dry towel to eliminate left over water on the surfaces after each use, can also help to prevent mold growth. 

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If you do find mold in your shower, it’s important to clean it immediately. You can use any of the natural solutions I’ll talk about in this post.

How can you tell the difference between mildew and black mold?

Mildew and black mold are both types of fungi that can grow in damp and humid environments, such as bathrooms and basements. While they have some similarities, there are some key differences between the two.

Mildew is a type of fungus that typically appears as a powdery or fluffy white or gray growth on surfaces. 

It can also appear in shades of yellow, pink, or green. Mildew is often found on surfaces such as walls, ceilings, and fabrics, and it typically has a musty odor. Mildew growth is usually not as dangerous as black mold and can often be removed with a mildew cleaner.

Black mold, on the other hand, is a type of toxic mold that can appear as a greenish-black or black growth on surfaces. 

It has a slimy or fuzzy texture and can have a strong, musty odor. Black mold is typically found in areas that have experienced significant water damage or are constantly exposed to moisture, such as in leaky pipes, damp basements, or showers. Black mold can be more dangerous than mildew, and exposure to it can cause health problems, especially for people with respiratory issues.

To differentiate between mildew and black mold, you can look at the color and texture of the growth. 

Mildew is typically white, gray, or greenish in color and has a powdery or fluffy texture. Black mold is usually dark green or black and has a slimy or fuzzy texture. You can also try to remove the growth with a cleaner or bleach solution. If it does not come off easily or returns after cleaning, it may be black mold and you should seek professional help for removal.

IMPORTANT

The content of this blog post is intended for information purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice.

I am not a doctor and I’m only sharing my personal experience here.

If you are unwell or sick, always ask your trusted doctor or medical practitioner for advice. Pay particular attention if you are allergic or intolerant to any food and/or medication, if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Children and elderly people should also seek medical attention quickly if unwell or experiencing any symptom.

Even if you don’t experience any symptom, always contact your trusted health provider if in doubt. If you feel unwell and are worried, it is safer to ask for medical advice from a professional than to wait.

Always keep essential oils out of reach of children.

Never risk it!

IMPORTANT

Always read the label carefully before consuming any medication. Never exceed the recommended dose. Ask for the advice of your pharmacist if in doubt, and if you are already taking other prescriptions, if you are allergic to any ingredient, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Moreover, contact your doctor immediately if your symptoms don’t improve or if you get worse.

Is the black mold in my shower toxic? 

The black mold in your shower could potentially be toxic, as there are several different species of black mold, some of which are known to produce mycotoxins that can be harmful to human health.

Stachybotrys chartarum, commonly known as toxic black mold, is a type of black mold that is known to produce mycotoxins that can cause health problems, especially for people with respiratory issues, weakened immune systems, or allergies. 

However, not all black mold is toxic, and it is difficult to determine the type of mold just by looking at it.

If you suspect that the black mold in your shower could be toxic, it is recommended to have it tested by a professional mold inspector or a certified laboratory. A mold test can determine the type and level of mold present in your shower, and help you decide the appropriate course of action to take.

How do you tell if mold is making you sick?

Firstly, it is important to notice that not everyone will get sick from exposure to mold.

However, people with weakened immune system, asthma or allergies are at increased risk. 

Mold exposure can cause a wide range of health problems, and the symptoms can vary depending on the individual’s sensitivity to mold, the type of mold, the duration of exposure, and the amount of mold present.

Here are some common signs and symptoms that may indicate that mold is making you sick:

• Respiratory problems: Exposure to mold can cause a variety of respiratory problems, including coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and asthma attacks.
  
• Allergic reactions: Mold spores can trigger allergic reactions, such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and skin rash.
  
• Headaches: Exposure to mold can cause headaches and migraines.
  
• Fatigue: Mold exposure can cause fatigue and weakness, which can make it difficult to carry out daily activities.
  
• Digestive problems: Mold exposure can cause digestive problems, such as nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
  
• Neurological symptoms: Exposure to toxic molds can cause neurological symptoms, such as memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and confusion.
  

IMPORTANT

If you suspect that a mold infestation is making you sick, it is important to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can help determine the cause of your symptoms and provide appropriate treatment. It is also important to address the mold problem by identifying the source of the mold and taking steps to remove it from your home or workplace.

Although you might not experience any symptom, do not disregard mold in your bathroom!

Mold is a serious problem that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Prolonged exposure to it can severely affect your health.

Does black mold go away by itself?

Black mold will not go away by itself. If left untreated, it can continue to grow and spread throughout your home or building, potentially causing serious health problems.

IMPORTANT

Always wear protective rubber gloves when cleaning your home, car, or outdoor areas.

Do not handle any cleaning product or infested item without protecting your hands first!

Before applying or spraying any product on your furniture or upholstery, check the labels and cleaning instructions.

Do not spray or treat any expensive item, as you might possibly damage it. Leave costly items to a professional carpet cleaner!

Always test on a small, inconspicuous area first (perform a patch test!).

Can you get sick from cleaning mold in shower?

Cleaning mold in the shower can potentially expose you to harmful spores and mycotoxins, which can cause health problems. The severity of the health risks depends on the type of mold you are dealing with, as well as your individual sensitivity to mold.

If you are cleaning non-toxic molds such as mildew, it is generally safe to clean it yourself with proper protective equipment, including gloves, a mask, and goggles. However, for toxic black mold or larger infestations, it is recommended to seek the help of a professional mold remediation company.

If you are cleaning mold yourself, it is important to take proper precautions to protect your health. Wear gloves, a face mask, and goggles to avoid inhaling or coming into direct contact with mold spores. 

Avoid using bleach, as it can actually promote the growth of mold.

IMPORTANT

If you start experiencing symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, headaches, or other respiratory or allergic reactions while cleaning mold, stop immediately and seek medical attention if necessary. It is also important to ensure proper ventilation in the area, and avoid spreading mold spores to other parts of your home.

How do I keep my shower mold free?

In my modest opinion, a regular cleaning schedule of your shower will help you to keep mold and mildew at bay.

Thankfully for you, I have the perfect recipe that will make cleaning your shower an effortless job!

This homemade shower cleaner recipe:

• Cuts through grease, grime, soap scum and dirt;
• Removes water stains from taps and shower door handle, leaving them shiny;
• Helps in preventing the formation of cold and mildew;
• Has antiviral, anti fungal and antibacterial properties;
• Leaves a lovely scent behind, after cleaning;
• Is super easy to make and use;
• Costs only pennies to make;
• Is safe for the environment;
• Does not contain any toxin or harsh chemical.

IMPORTANT

Always follow the advice of your trusted health practitioner before using any product around your home.

Although the natural ingredients used in the recipes below are generally safe, always consult with your doctor before using any product. Pay particular attention if you suffer from any condition, allergy or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Seek immediate advice and help from your trusted medical care provider if you are concerned about your health or that of your family members or pets.

For example

While essential oils and natural ingredients are generally safe for pets, some animals might be sensitive to some ingredients, or might develop an allergic reaction. Immediately stop any treatment if you notice any reaction, such as a skin irritation on your dog. Seek immediate help from your local vet if you are concerned about your pet’s health at any stage.

The same advice applies to you and the rest of your family.

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HOMEMADE SHOWER CLEANER RECIPE: EASY AND CHEAP

Let’s have a look at my tried and trusted recipe.

important

Only use 100% unadulterated and pure essential oils, from a reputable company. 

Never use essential oils topically unless properly diluted, and only use them after a patch test.

Pay particular attention if you are pregnant, breast-feeding, or on older people and young children.

Some people might develop skin irritations or adverse reactions.

Never ingest essential oils without reading the label first, as not all oils can be consumed internally.

Always talk to your trusted medical practitioner and/or certified aromatherapist before using essential oils, especially if you suffer from any allergy, intolerance, are ill or are already taking any medication.

You will need:

• One and a half cup of white, distilled vinegar;
• Half cup of dishwashing soap;
• 30 drops of Tea Tree oil (Melaleuca), or of your favorite essential oil;
• A spray bottle.

If you are not sure about what is a safe plastic to use with essential oils, please go check this post!

To make:

Start by pouring the dishwashing soap in the bottle. Add the essential oils of choice.

Slowly start adding the vinegar, making sure to leave a little space at the top.

Shake well to mix and before each use.

To use:

When you are ready to clean your shower, simply spray the affected area liberally, using as much solution as needed.

Let it sit for a minimum of  30 minutes. Leave it for longer for stubborn dirt.

Scrub if necessary and rinse well with warm water. An old toothbrush will work very well for this purpose.

Make sure to rinse the shower well before using. In fact, the soap contained in this natural DIY cleaner will make the surface slippery!

To store:

Store any left over solution in a dark cupboard, away from direct sunlight and heat for up to 3 months. 

Will mold come back after cleaning?

Mold can come back after cleaning if the underlying cause of the mold growth is not addressed. If the source of moisture that allowed the mold to grow in the first place is not eliminated, then the mold may return.

Cleaning visible mold growth can remove the spores that are present, but it may not completely eliminate all of the mold. 

How do you get rid of mold permanently?

Mold can grow deep within porous materials and surfaces such as drywall, and it can release spores even if it is not visible on the surface. This is why it is important to identify and address the source of moisture that allowed the mold to grow, in addition to cleaning up the visible mold.

To prevent mold from returning after cleaning, it is important to fix any leaks, reduce humidity levels, improve ventilation, and ensure that water is not accumulating in areas such as bathrooms or basements. It may also be helpful to use mold-resistant materials in areas where moisture is a concern, such as bathrooms or kitchens. Regular cleaning and maintenance can also help prevent mold growth from recurring.

HOW TO CLEAN BLACK MOLD IN THE SHOWER: Conclusions

My dear friend, if you experience black mold in your bathroom, I know how unpleasant it is!

For a very long time I used commercially produced sprays, thinking I would get rid of it permanently. Sadly, none of those toxic remedies works.

However, since discovering the homemade recipe I shared above, I can honestly say that my shower stays clean for very long periods of time, and I’m keeping back mold growth at bay.

Please let me know if you try the recipe, and leave a comment below to say if it worked for you. I’d love to hear from you.

IMPORTANT

When using Essential Oils, make sure to use only CPTG Certified, Pure, Tested Grade ones, like Doterra Essential Oils. The content of this blog post and any information provided here has not been evaluated by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration), any government entity or medical practitioner. It is NOT intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, illness or condition. It is NOT intended to be a substitute for medical counselling. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or suffering from any medical condition or illness or injury, you SHOULD consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any product.