Homeowners might treat pink mould in the shower the same way as any other type of dirt in the bathroom, unaware that it can actually be harbouring harmful bacteria.
However, if left unchecked this bathroom 'mould' can spread quickly, returning even after cleaning, and potentially creating conditions that increase the risk of infections and skin irritation.
Recognising pink mould early and tackling it effectively is therefore essential for both your health and the hygiene of your bathroom. Here we explain how to do this, as well as looking at how to prevent this nasty problem returning.
Article continues belowWhat is pink mould?
Despite its name, pink mould in your shower is not actually mould. It is a bacterium known as Serratia marcescens that thrives in damp, warm environments, feeding on soap residue, shampoo, and other organic materials.
Robert Quinton, director at Shire Construction Products, said: “Pink mould is actually a type of bacteria known as Serratia Marcescens. This bacterium is commonly found in damp areas of the home, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms. You’ll often see it in places where soap and moisture build up, specifically around the shower.
"It feeds on the fats and minerals in soaps and shampoos, which is why these areas are prone to its appearance. It thrives in warm, humid conditions, so you might notice it more during the spring and summer months when hot weather and humidity are more common.”
The bacteria can appear pink, red, brown, or even slightly black, forming a slimy biofilm. This is why it is often mistaken for regular mould like black mould.
Robert Quinton is an expert in building materials, damp-proofing, and moisture management in residential properties. He advises homeowners and professionals on preventing and managing issues such as mould and bacteria in bathrooms, ensuring safe and hygienic living spaces.
Why pink mould in your shower can be a health hazard
While pink mould is generally less harmful than black mould, it can still pose significant health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, or people with weakened immune systems.
Robert Quinton said: “Homeowners should remove pink mould as soon as they notice it. Even small amounts can multiply quickly, especially in warm, damp conditions. It can cause respiratory issues, urinary infections, and skin irritation, particularly if it enters cuts or broken skin."
His warning comes as new analysis from the Centre for Ageing Better highlights the wider scale of damp problems in England. The charity found that six million homes have issues with condensation, damp or mould – more than the estimated five million homes with large screen TVs – underlining how common moisture-related problems have become.
Dr Carole Easton OBE, chief executive at the Centre for Ageing Better, said: “Too many people are living in homes that have mould, or are damp and cold, putting their health and wellbeing at risk.
“Our homes are the foundation for a decent life, where we should all feel proud, safe, and secure. No one should have to live in a home that damages their health, yet it is the norm for far too many people in England today."
Dr Carole Easton OBE leads national research and policy work examining how housing quality affects people’s health and wellbeing in later life. She has been a prominent voice linking poor-quality homes - including damp, cold and hazardous properties - to respiratory illness, cardiovascular conditions, falls and poor mental health.
Signs it's pink mould in your shower
Robert Quinton said there are a few telltale signs that you are dealing with pink mould in your shower rather than other types of bathroom mould or grime build-up. These can include:
- Pink or reddish marks in damp areas – slimy or slightly fuzzy patches that darken if not cleaned promptly.
- Stains that return after cleaning – persistent growth shows the bacteria is feeding on moisture.
- Musty or sweet smell – faint odours in poorly ventilated areas such as showers or under sinks.
- Slimy coating on bathroom items – shampoo bottles or accessories may feel slippery.
- Unexplained skin or breathing problems – rashes, breathing difficulties, or urinary infections may worsen at home.
How to get rid of pink mould in your shower
Robert Quinton recommends a thorough, multi-step cleaning process to remove the mould effectively:
Step 1: Create your cleaning solution
“To begin, combine 1 teaspoon of sodium bicarbonate, 1 teaspoon of washing-up liquid, with two cups of water.
"If you're dealing with a large surface of pink mould, you might want to double the amount. Ensure you are wearing protective gear like gloves and a mask to shield yourself from any bacteria or cleaning chemicals.”
Step 2: Clean shower accessories first
“It’s important to remove and clean your shower curtain and liner first, as the bacteria behind pink mould can also grow on fabric and plastic," he explains.
"If they’re machine-washable, put them in the washing machine using your regular detergent and wash with warm or hot water. Let them dry naturally outdoors or hang them on an airer.”
Step 3: Scrub the affected areas
“Focus on the areas with visible pink mould by dipping a nylon-bristle brush into your homemade cleaning paste and start scrubbing," he explains.
"Work from the top down to help stop bacteria from spreading to areas you’ve already cleaned. Rinse everything thoroughly using the shower head.”
Step 4: Disinfect thoroughly
“Mix equal parts warm water and bleach in a spray bottle, and spray it generously over the cleaned surfaces," he says.
"Leave it to sit for about 10 to 15 minutes, then scrub once more using a fresh brush. When that’s done, rinse the area well and dry it completely. You can use a towel or squeegee to remove any leftover moisture and help prevent the mould from coming back.”
Mould removal products
2-step treatment pack with powerful solution targets. Eliminating both visible stains and the fungal structure, creating a long-lasting fungicidal barrier to prevent regrowth.
Mould remover spray & mildew cleaner Effortlessly eliminates all moulds, making filthy stains disappear, whilst preventing re-growth.
The ready-to-use surface biocide controls the growth of algae, fungus, mould and mildew. It can be used on most materials including timber, concrete, brick, plaster, stone and tiles.
How to stop pink mould coming back
1. Seal bathroom tiles
Robert Quinton says sealing your bathroom tiles after installation or once thoroughly cleaned can prevent pink mould from returning.
“Pink mould loves damp places, so it’s important to stop water from soaking into your tiles," he explains. "Make sure the grout is properly sealed and use silicone sealant to fix any gaps. This helps prevent moisture and makes it harder for mould to grow.”
2. Keep your bathroom well ventilated
Making sure your wash area is well ventilated should be one of your first defences against any type of mould, including pink mould. Wiping down surfaces is also a smart preventative measure to take too.
“Try to keep bathroom surfaces as dry as possible," explains Quinton. "Wipe down wet areas after using the shower or bath, and make sure the room is well ventilated. An extractor fan helps move damp air out, but even just opening a window after a shower can make a big difference.”
3. Regularly clean the bathroom
It might sound basic, but regular maintenance and cleaning can also prevent pink mould making a return.
Quinto says: “Cleaning your bathroom often is the best way to stop mould in its tracks. Focus on areas where mould tends to appear, like shower curtains, tiles and grout. Keeping these dry and free from build-up removes the conditions mould needs to grow.”
Pink mould in your shower is more than just an unsightly stain. It can spread bacteria that can affect your health, particularly for vulnerable individuals.
Prompt removal, regular cleaning, proper ventilation, and sealing damp surfaces are essential steps to keep your bathroom safe and hygienic.
