Mold on bathroom ceilings is often linked to humidity, elevated temperatures, and poor ventilation. Bathrooms, particularly during and after showers, offer an ideal environment for these elements to thrive.
You can add a layer of protection by coating the ceiling with waterproof paint. Semi-gloss is a popular choice and has better waterproofing qualities.
Our top choice for the best mold remover is the Clorox Tilex Mold and Mildew Remover for its overall effectiveness, especially in bathrooms where mold is most prevalent. If you're looking for something made with natural ingredients while maintaining effectiveness, we also recommend the CLR Mold & Mildew Remover.
The best way to remove mould from bathroom ceilings is to use a simple solution of warm water with detergent or a homemade cleaning solution of diluted bleach or white vinegar. Before you start cleaning the area, be sure to wear a protective mask and gloves so that you don't touch or inhale the mould spores.
Install an Air Vent: Consider installing an air vent if your bathroom doesn't have a window. This will help remove damp air and increase air circulation. Use a Dehumidifier: A portable dehumidifier can effectively reduce moisture levels in your bathroom, making it a less hospitable environment for mold.
Humidity problems occur when warm, moisture-laden air interacts with a cool ceiling, causing condensation and subsequent interior mold growth. Liquid moisture problems are due to direct liquid water exposure, i.e. plumbing failures, roof leaks, etc. Occasionally the mold growth is due to a combination of both factors.
Vinegar is a natural mold remover and can help prevent the growth of new spores. Add some undiluted white vinegar to a spray bottle. Spray the entire ceiling, not just the affected area, with the vinegar cleaning solution. Spraying the entire ceiling helps combat non-visible mold.
Exposure to mold can cause health effects in some people. Mold spores are always found in the air we breathe, but extensive mold contamination may cause health problems. Breathing mold can cause allergic and respiratory symptoms.
The best specialty paint for your bathroom ceiling is acrylic paint. Acrylic paint is not only highly resistant to water, mold, and mildew, but it also dries faster and often contains no VOCs. This paint is less odorous, making it easier to be around while waiting to dry.
Use condensation-reducing paint
If you find condensation of your bathroom ceiling and walls after your shower, there are paints on the market that will absorb moisture to prevent condensation. Some also contain anti-mould agents to help prevent the formation of mould.
Vapor barriers should only be used in areas where there is water or moisture such as kitchens and bathrooms. The interior kitchens and bathrooms specifically need a vapor barrier installed during the building process.
Mildew is always flat, and may begin white and then turn brown, gray or black. Mold is usually fuzzy and raised, comes in many colors, and always grows inside its food source. Mold can be many different colors ranging from white, yellow, green, gray, to black.
While painting over mould may temporarily disguise the problem, paint alone will not kill mould. Instead, the mould will continue to grow underneath the paint until it begins to show through. It may also cause the paint to bubble or flake, ruining the finish. If possible, it's best to remove the mould before painting.
Use Mold-Resistant Paint: If you're sticking with drywall, consider using mold-resistant paint on bathroom ceilings. This type of paint inhibits the growth of mold and mildew.
Hydrogen peroxide, commonly used to disinfect wounds, is active against a wide variety of micro-organisms including mold. It acts by releasing oxygen at a rapid rate, which kills mold by oxidizing the surface and breaking down proteins and DNA.
The leading causes of mold growth on bathroom ceilings are: Excess moisture: Bathrooms produce moisture from sinks, showers, and baths. Without proper ventilation, it condenses on surfaces, promoting mold growth. Poor ventilation: Inadequate airflow traps humidity, causing condensation on ceilings.
If you have a mold allergy, your immune system overreacts when you breathe in mold spores. A mold allergy can cause coughing, itchy eyes and other symptoms that make you miserable. In some people, a mold allergy is linked to asthma and exposure causes restricted breathing and other airway symptoms.
Solution: Bleach
Best For: killing mold on the surface of nonporous surfaces like tiles and sinks. One part bleach to two parts water added to a spray bottle. Spritz the hard surface areas with this solution and let dry. The mold should disappear within minutes.
Keeping your shower doors closed at all hours of the day locks in moist air and can lead to mold. After you shower, the interior space is at its wettest point. Try to keep the doors open for a half hour or so until the steam clears. If you have a fan in your bathroom, make sure to turn it on and let the air circulate.