Pink Residue In Shower

Inside of the bathroom you are most likely to notice pink residue in the shower which is why it is often referred to as pink shower mold.

Pink residue in shower. The reddish pink residue in your bathrooms on shower stalls tubs tile toilets sinks and toothbrush holders is caused by the growth of an airborne bacterium called serratia marcescens. If you re seeing pink stains on the inside of your toilet bathtub or shower it s usually not a problem with water quality instead it s likely the result of airborne bacteria that finds a home on moist surfaces. Although this gunk is commonly called either pink mold or pink mildew it is actually a type of water borne bacteria serratia marcescens.

The pink bacteria that builds up on the grout between your shower tiles is known scientifically as serratia marcescens and it feeds on fatty substances such as soap scum. The shower is the perfect place for these bacteria to grow as they can feed on the mineral deposits left behind by soap scum and the fatty deposits in personal hygiene product residue. Unlike run of the mill green molds like cladosporium or the infamous toxic black mold stachybotrys chartarum the pink mold in your shower isn t actually mold at all.

The pesky growth thrives in damp environments like bathrooms and feeds off common toiletries such as soap and shampoo. According to melissa maker the owner of clean my space the pink slime that forms at the bottom edge of your shower curtain is an airborne bacterium not a mold as commonly thought technically known as serratia marcescens. It s called serratia bacteria and it is airborne it loves moist damp areas and gets more prevalent by feeding on shampoo and soap residue in the shower and pet slobber after the pet drinks from his bowl.

Yes that s right you ve got bathroom mold.