Mould in the bathroom is a common problem, and once it appears, it can be stubborn and hard to remove. But experts say there’s a simple way to prevent mould from forming, and it all starts with what you do with your towel after a shower.
Many people know that moisture is the main cause of mould, but few realise how quickly it builds up. Even a short shower can send humidity levels soaring past 70%, creating the perfect conditions for mould spores to grow. Damp corners, wet tiles, and soggy fabrics all become breeding grounds. And when mould takes hold, it can not only damage grouting and seals but also pose serious health risks.
The good news is that a few small daily habits can make a huge difference.
One of the most effective steps, according to experts, involves how you handle your towel after drying off.
Experts at Villeroy & Boch recommend placing your towel on a warm towel rail or radiator straight after use.
This helps it dry much faster and prevents mould from forming in the damp fabric.
They explained: “Shower or bath towels should be changed at least once a week, and hand towels every two to three days. After use, place towels on the radiator to dry them.”
They also advised against leaving towels in a heap or on the floor, as this keeps them wet for longer and encourages mould spores to spread.
Other key tips include ventilating the bathroom by opening a window or using an extractor fan, wiping down tiles after showering, and keeping the bathroom temperature at around 23C to avoid damp build-up.
Adding a hygrometer to monitor humidity, using salt-based dehumidifiers, and extending your shower curtain fully to reduce creases can also help.
Bathrooms without windows can be trickier, but the experts say it’s still possible to keep them mould-free.
“Modern ventilation systems, or even fans with heat recovery, can provide effective air exchange,” they said.
If mould does start to appear, it’s best to deal with it quickly using natural products such as baking soda or citric acid, then rinse and dry the area thoroughly.
For more mould prevention tips, click here.
