THERE’S nothing worse than getting out of a warm shower, and going straight into a stone cold bathroom.
So many of us look for different ways to keep our bathrooms toasty – especially when it’s freezing outside.
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However, turning up the heat in the bathroom can sometimes lead to mould.
To avoid that completely, there’s an optimum temperature to stick to, and it’s probably warmer than you think.
“Mould thrives in damp and humid environments,” home interiors expert Henry Maia explained.
“By maintaining a consistent and appropriate temperature, homeowners can make life tough for mould spores, protecting both their health, and the quality of their homes.”
That ideal temperature range is between 20°C to 22°C (68°F and 72°F).
“Keeping your bathroom within this temperature range can help reduce the chances of mould growth,” he continued.
It’s also vital to ensure your bathroom is properly ventilated, although opening the window isn’t always the best idea.
“Instead of opening the window wide for a short while, it’s better to ventilate more subtly with small air vents or a window left open a crack for several hours – perhaps during the day when the bathroom is used less,” Henry, the Vice President of Mineral Tiles, said.
Henry’s other tips include sealing any cracks or gaps around bathtubs, sinks and windows, and repair any to keep “cold air out and warmth in”.
If your bathroom is particularly chilly, you could consider getting a space heater.
Just “make sure it’s placed away from water sources and is installed with safety features”, Henry advised.
A towel warmer is another way you can stay toasty, as it ups the temperature while reducing the likelihood of moisture build-up.
And if you’re worried about indoor humidity, you can use a hygrometer to monitor it.
“Aim to keep humidity levels below 50% to reduce the risk of mould,” he said.
What is mould and how to get rid of it?
Mould is more likely to grow during the winter months.
Olivia Young, Product Development Scientist at Astonish revealed exactly why this is.
“Unfortunately, mould is a common problem many people face during winter. It thrives in conditions that are warm and damp, so your bathrooms are likely to be the most affected place.
“That said, during the colder months most rooms in your home could be vulnerable to mould growing.
“This occurs primarily from condensation that builds up on your windows when you’ve got your radiators on.
“If you think about it, when windows and doors are closed, there’s not much chance for the air to circulate and the moisture to make a swift exit.
“This build up is what can cause dreaded mould to make an appearance, especially in bathrooms, as it creates that warm and wet environment that is a breeding ground for mould.
“If left untreated, not only is it unsightly but it can also pose a serious risk to your health, so it’s really important you treat it.
“The key to tackle mould is to act fast.
“Try to come into as little contact with it as you can. So, grab your gloves, tie up your hair and get to work to remove any signs of mould as soon as you notice them.
“To keep mould at bay, there are some simple solutions you can introduce throughout home.
“The first is keep it ventilated. Yes, even in the cold winter months try to leave your bathroom window open for at least 10/15 minutes post shower or bath. This will get rid of any excess moisture quickly preventing mould gathering.
“If you’re having a repeat problem with mould in one particular area, it might be because the humidity levels are too high. You can get a dehumidifier that will help keep the levels low and reduce the risk of mould returning.
“The golden rule to remember when dealing with mould is the quicker you can treat it, the better. If you leave it, it will only get worse so never ignore it!
“To successfully get rid of mould every time, I recommend opting for the UK’s No 1 Mould & Mildew Remover, that effectively removes mould and mildew stains almost instantly, with no scrubbing necessary.”
Concluding, Henry stated: “Protecting your home against mould is not just about aesthetics – though that’s important; it’s about family health and safety.
“By taking proactive steps to manage temperature and moisture, homeowners can maintain a clean and comfortable living environment throughout the winter months.”