Why does my bathtub keep turning pink?

Why does my bathtub keep turning pink?

The discoloration comes from a biofilm—that is, a bacterial colony—of Serratia marcescens. The airborne bacterial species thrives in moist environments like showers, where it feeds on mineral deposits in soap scum and fatty deposits in soap and shampoo residue.

Why does my water leave a pink residue?

What Causes Pink Residue. Pink residue is generally not a problem with water quality. In fact, pink residue is likely a result of airborne bacteria which produce a pinkish or dark gray film on regularly moist surfaces. Such surfaces include toilet bowls, shower heads, sink drains, and tiles.

How do I get rid of pink mold in my bathtub?

— Scrub all areas affected by pink mold, using a loose paste of baking soda and dish detergent (in a 4:1 ratio). — Rinse well. — Spray with a half-and-half solution of water mixed with either bleach or vinegar. (Never use bleach and vinegar together; the combination creates toxic fumes.)

How do you get red stains out of a bathtub?

For Red or Black Stains, Use Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide. Use the brightening power of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to remove tough red or black stains. Do not use this method on an acrylic tub—it may scratch the surface. Mix two parts baking soda and one part hydrogen peroxide to form a paste.

Is pink mold harmful?

It’s usually not as hazardous to your health as black mold and other fungi, but there are some pink mold dangers, such as urinary tract infections, intestinal problems and in rare cases pneumonia. You’ll definitely want to rid your bathroom of the pink mold and take steps to keep it from coming back.

Can Serratia marcescens make you sick?

More recently, Serratia marcescens has been found to be pathogenic to a small percentage of people, having been identified as a cause of urinary tract infections, wound infections, and pneumonia in hospital environments.

Can pink mold make you sick?

Like all molds, pink mold carries certain health risks with long-term exposure. The most common health problems are eye, nail and skin infection or rash. While anyone can experience an allergic reaction, infants and the elderly are more likely to develop severe symptoms.

What causes orange stains in bathtub?

An orange stain in the shower will most often come from one of two sources: 1. Iron in the water. Your household water supply might contain high levels of iron, which combine with leftover soap scum to form a rusty orange deposit on plumbing fixtures, tubs and sinks.

How long does it take for pink mold to grow?

Under ideal conditions (optimal temperature and level of humidity), it takes 24 to 48 hours for mold to germinate and grow. Typically, the spores begin to colonize in 3 to 12 days and become visible in about 18-21 days.

What to do about pink stains in bathrooms?

Most importantly it does not come from the water, as is often thought. It is best to frequently clean and dry the affected areas. Bleach or another strong disinfectant can also help to prevent regrowth. A home that is “open” can allow more of the bacteria or yeast to enter, but may also contribute to better drying.

How can I get rid of pink mold in my shower?

Spraying a diluted solution of bleach will kill the bacteria and lighten the pink stain. However, to provide a longer lasting effect, the area will need to be scrubbed down. This gets rid of the underlying minerals and soap scum that the bacteria love to feed on.

What to do about pink ring in toilet bowl?

The best way to deal with the pinkish ring is to tackle it in the toilet bowl with chlorine bleach and a plastic-bristled brush. For hard-to-reach areas, try an old toothbrush dipped in chlorine bleach, being careful of course to wear gloves and protect your eyes from the harsh chemical.

What to do with pink slime in bathroom?

Once pink slime has left its grimy mark, you can clean it away with just about any bathroom cleaning solution. We recommend trying a solution of one-part vinegar and one-part water; spray this mixture over the afflicted area and then scrub away with a soft bristle brush.