A cleaning guru has shared her top tips for a pristine shower, highlighting that if you’ve spotted an orangey pink substance in your shower, it might be time to give it some TLC. Despite being commonly referred to as “pink mould,” this gunk is not mould at all, leading the expert to advise: “You don’t need any special mould products for this pink/orange slime because it’s not actually mould”.
So, what is this annoying intruder and how can you prevent it from coming back? TikToker @tidytrojans shared her experience of “cleaning a shower with pink mould, soap scum, and hard water build-up”. However, she clarifies that the ‘mould’ is actually bacteria, rendering mould-specific cleaners useless against it.
Instead, she suggests tackling the problem directly with a vinegar-based solution, which she says “works super well on soap scum, especially when paired with an ammonia-free dish soap”. The cause of the discolouration is identified as Serratia marcescens – a bacterium known for its reddish-pink or orange biofilm.
This species, often found in bathrooms, thrives on moisture and can be harmful to health. According to the TikToker, it “feeds off soap scum and mineral deposits” and loves the damp conditions found in showers.
For those who are immunocompromised, black mould can lead to respiratory problems and urinary infections, particularly if it comes into contact with personal hygiene items. The savvy homeowner used Bar Keepers Friend, which she got from Amazon for £8.59, to make the shower gleam.
By utilising an electric spin scrubber, she could access every nook and cranny, guaranteeing a deep clean. Additionally, the cleaning enthusiast ensured that the shower fittings were restored to their former shine by eliminating any limescale deposits.
She adopted the same tactic on the shower door. The final outcome was striking, with the shower cubicle now spotless and free from bacteria.
In a social media comment, a person noted: “I thought it was soap scum,” prompting her to explain: “There is, but then bacteria starts to grow on it (which is pink and orange coloured)”.