How to Get Rid of Pink Mold in Showers: Quick and Easy Tips

If you’ve spotted slimy pink or reddish streaks on your shower walls, floors, or curtains, you are likely dealing with pink mold.

Despite the name, this isn’t a mold at all; it’s a type of airborne bacteria called Serratia marcescens. It thrives in warm, moist environments and feeds on soap and shampoo residue. 

While pink mold isn’t as harmful as black mold, it can still pose some potential health risks, especially for those with weakened immune systems. In some cases, it has been linked to urinary tract infections, intestinal problems, and, in rare instances, pneumonia.

Luckily, this article explains how to eliminate pink mold in the shower with a few quick and easy steps, along with a reliable cleaning and disinfectant product, such as Lysol^® Mold & Mildew Bathroom Bleach Cleaner.

Removing pink mold in the shower, but first!

Keeping the right cleaning supplies on hand makes the removal of pink mold easier and more effective. Here’s what you’ll need to get rid of pink mold in the shower safely and thoroughly:

• Lysol^® Mold & Mildew Bathroom Bleach Cleaner
• Rubber gloves
• Face mask
• Protective eyewear
• Soft-bristled scrub brush

How to get rid of pink mold in the shower

Even though Serratia marcescens is harmless, it is unsightly, and you don’t want it in your shower. Restore your bathroom cleanliness by eliminating pink mold from the shower’s wall, floor, and curtains.

1. Wear rubber gloves, protective eyewear, and a mask to protect yourself from inhaling or touching mold spores.
2. Rinse the affected areas thoroughly, whether on the shower wall or floor, with the hottest water possible, preferably using a handheld shower.
3. Spray the freshly cleaned area with Lysol^® Mold & Mildew Bathroom Bleach Cleaner and allow the solution to sit for 10 to 15 minutes. This should provide the disinfectant’s powerful foaming formula to remove pink shower mold, mildew, soap scum, and stains, while also killing 99.99% of viruses and bacteria.
4. Use a clean, soft-bristled brush to scrub the mold off the surfaces. Apply alternate scrubbing patterns, from back and forth to up and down and circular motions, to ensure the bristles reach all the nooks and crannies. 
5. Rinse the areas thoroughly with warm water. Repeat the process, starting with scrubbing if necessary.
6. Open the windows or the exhaust fan for a few hours to dry all the surfaces. You can also use a squeegee or a clean and fresh microfiber towel to remove moisture.

Shower curtain and liner

Serratia marcescens can grow on plastic and fabric surfaces, so it is important to wash or clean shower curtains and liners, even if pink mold isn’t visible on the surface.

Toss washable curtains and liners in the washing machine and wash in warm to hot water with regular detergent and Lysol^® Laundry Disinfectant. This laundry disinfectant is bleach-free, works even in cold water, and eliminates 99.99% of bacteria and viruses.

Dry the curtains according to the care label instructions, but do not put the plastic liners in the automatic dryer. Hang the liner outdoors on a clothesline or drying rack.

FAQs

What causes pink mold in the shower?

Serratia marcescens is the most common bacterium that causes pink mold in a bathroom. This airborne bacteria grows in moist environments, such as showers, and feeds on mineral deposits, soap, and shampoo residue. 

Is pink mold harmful and can it spread germs?

Yes. Pink mold is a form of airborne bacteria that can thrive in moist environments. It can cause skin irritation, aggravate allergies, and may be especially concerning for individuals with weakened immune systems. Using Lysol^® disinfecting products, which kill 99.99% of viruses and bacteria when used as directed, helps eliminate pink mold and reduce the risk of exposure to harmful germs.

Why does pink mold make my shower smell bad?

Pink mold, which is actually a type of bacteria, can produce a musty or unpleasant odor as it grows in damp areas like shower tiles, curtains, and grout. Regular cleaning with Lysol^® bathroom cleaners helps eliminate buildup and leaves behind a fresh scent. For a classic clean, try Lemon, or go for a modern, uplifting fragrance like Mango & Hibiscus from our Brand New Day^™ collection.

How to prevent pink mold in the shower?

Here are some steps you can take to prevent mold growth in the shower:

• Remove soap residue from your shower walls by rinsing them thoroughly with hot water after each use.
• Wipe down the shower walls with a squeegee or towel after each use.
• Open the bathroom door and windows after your bath to ensure the shower area is well-ventilated and to reduce humidity and moisture buildup.
• Clean shower surfaces regularly with highly effective and reliable bathroom cleaners to remove soap scum and other organic matter that can foster pink mold.

How often should I clean my shower to prevent pink mold?

To prevent pink mold, you should clean your shower at least once a week or more (if necessary).