Bad bathroom mistakes that can affect your health Bad bathroom mistakes that can affect your health

Experts have revealed that over 60% of Brits make at least one of these common bathroom mistakes, potentially leading to serious health risks, costly repairs and unexpected accidents.

Plumbworld, the bathroom and kitchen experts, have identified five of the most common mistakes Brits make in the bathroom and provided practical solutions to fix them. By tackling these problems, you can create a safer, healthier bathroom in your home. Here are the most common mistakes and how to stop them causing damage.

1. Insufficient ventilation

Poor ventilation in the bathroom leads to high humidity, creating the perfect environment for mold and mildew. Over time, mold spores can spread throughout your home and affect air quality. Mold infestation can cause several health problems, including respiratory problems, asthma, and allergies. In addition, constant moisture can weaken the structural integrity of walls and ceilings, leading to costly repairs.

Solution: Make sure your bathroom is properly ventilated by using an exhaust fan every time you shower or bathe. If your bathroom doesn’t have a fan, open a window to allow moisture to escape. Clean the fan regularly to keep it working efficiently. Consider purchasing a dehumidifier if your bathroom is particularly prone to moisture. Check regularly for signs of mold and address any problems immediately by cleaning with mold-killing agents and improving ventilation.

2. Looking at the water temperature

Setting the water heater too high can result in scalding, which is especially dangerous for children and the elderly. Burns from hot water can cause severe pain, blisters, and even long-term damage if not treated properly. These accidents are preventable, but can have serious consequences, including emergency room visits and long recovery times.

Solution: To avoid scalding, set your water heater to a safe temperature, usually around 120°F (49°C). Test the water temperature before getting in the shower or tub, especially when bathing children or elderly family members. Consider installing anti-scald devices on faucets and showerheads that automatically adjust the water temperature if it gets too hot. Always supervise small children in the bathroom to make sure they do not accidentally adjust the water temperature.

3. Ignore hidden leaks

Small leaks under the sink or behind the toilet may seem insignificant, but over time they can cause significant water damage and mold growth. Not only does this compromise the structural integrity of your home, but it also poses health risks as mold can cause respiratory problems, allergies, and other health issues. In addition, hidden leaks can lead to higher water bills and waste a significant amount of water.

Solution: Regularly check the areas around the sink, toilet and bathtub for signs of leaks, such as dampness, discoloration or a musty smell. Fix leaks immediately by tightening connections, replacing worn gaskets or calling a plumber if necessary. Consider installing leak detectors that will alert you to the presence of water in hidden areas so you can act quickly before the damage gets worse. Fixing small leaks immediately can prevent costly repairs and health risks in the future.

4. Failure to replace old shower curtains

Over time, shower curtains can become a breeding ground for bacteria, mold and mildew, especially if they are constantly damp. This can lead to unpleasant odors, unsightly stains and, more importantly, respiratory problems or skin infections, especially in those with allergies or weakened immune systems.

Solution: Replace your shower curtain regularly, especially if it shows signs of mold or mildew. Choose shower curtains made from mold-resistant materials. Wash the curtain regularly, either by hand or in the washing machine, using hot water and a small amount of bleach to kill any bacteria or mold. Make sure the curtain is fully extended after each use to allow it to dry properly and reduce the risk of mold growth.

5. Improper storage of cleaning products

Many bathroom cleaning products contain toxic chemicals that can be harmful if ingested, inhaled, or even touched. Storing these products within reach of children or in unlabeled containers can lead to accidental poisoning, which can cause serious health problems or even be fatal. Even in adults, improper storage can lead to chemical burns, respiratory problems, or accidentally mixing incompatible chemicals, which can release dangerous fumes.

Solution: Store all cleaning products in a safe, childproof cabinet, preferably out of the reach of children. Store products in their original containers with clear labels to avoid confusion. Never mix different cleaning products as this can cause dangerous chemical reactions. Consider switching to non-toxic, environmentally friendly cleaning products that pose fewer health risks. Educate your household members about the dangers of these chemicals and the importance of handling them carefully.