High humidity in the bathroom: causes and solutions

High humidity in the bathroom can be a challenging problem, but it is manageable. Let’s delve into the actions you can take to reduce humidity levels in your bathroom.

Why High Humidity Is a Serious Issue

Humidity is a natural occurrence after a shower, but if excessive moisture lingers and settles on surfaces, it can become a significant issue over time—primarily due to mold.

Mold thrives in warm temperatures and relative humidity above 60%, feeding on organic materials found on bathroom surfaces. Once mold develops, it becomes difficult to remove. Left unchecked, mold can cause severe coughing, allergies, and irritation to the skin and mucous membranes.

Mold not only damages wood, carpets, and building materials but can infiltrate your water supply system and spread. Ventilation and air conditioning systems can circulate mold spores throughout your home, including bedrooms and children’s rooms.

Now that we understand the dangers of high humidity, let’s explore effective solutions to address it.

Dehumidifiers

Environmental experts recommend maintaining indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50%. However, achieving this in a bathroom can be challenging. Start by purchasing an affordable hygrometer to measure the current humidity levels, then select a dehumidifier that meets your needs.

If unsure, choose a dehumidifier designed for a larger space, as it will likely be more energy-efficient. For smaller bathrooms, silica gel dehumidifiers might also be effective.

Exhaust Fans

If you want to reduce the workload of your dehumidifier and save electricity, you need to ensure proper ventilation in your bathroom.

Ventilation helps move air, preventing mold spores from settling on organic surfaces. It also keeps surfaces dry and reduces condensation—an essential factor in damp bathrooms.

When choosing an exhaust fan, consider the following:

Air Exchange Rate

Bathrooms are subject to sudden changes in temperature and moisture. Rapid ventilation is crucial to bring the environment back to normal. A high-performing exhaust fan can quickly replace humid air with fresh air. Account for factors like high ceilings, wall partitions, and additional fixtures when selecting a fan with adequate power.

Noise Control

Exhaust fans can be loud, especially at night when quiet is essential for sleep. Choose a fan with a lower noise level to minimize disturbances.

Humidity Sensors

Modern exhaust fans often come with advanced features like humidity sensors. These fans automatically activate when the relative humidity exceeds a set level, typically 60%. Adjustable thresholds allow for even better mold prevention.

Practical Tips to Reduce Bathroom Humidity

Here are some actionable tips to noticeably lower humidity levels in your bathroom:

Limit Appliances Producing Moisture

If your washer or dryer is located in or near your bathroom, ensure they are vented properly. Avoid drying laundry indoors whenever possible.

Avoid Drying Items in the Bathroom

Take wet towels out of the bathroom and dry them elsewhere in your home.

Replace Organic Materials

During renovations, consider swapping wooden cabinets, surfaces, and paint for materials more resistant to moisture and mold. Woods like cedar, black cherry, and white oak are naturally moisture-resistant.

Replace Peeling Surfaces

If wooden or painted surfaces start to peel, it’s time for a replacement. Some products are treated with fungicides at the factory, and fiberglass-faced drywall is less absorbent and can kill mold spores.

Wipe Wet Surfaces After a Shower

Water droplets can remain on tiles for hours, providing a breeding ground for mold. Wipe excess moisture from floors and surfaces immediately after showering.

Take Cooler and Shorter Showers

Mold thrives in warm temperatures, so cooler showers can mitigate the issue. Keep your shower sessions brief.

Minimize Bathroom Clutter

Bottles of shampoo and hygiene products provide additional surfaces for water accumulation and mold growth. Keep only essential items in the bathroom and store the rest in a nearby dry cabinet. Dispose of old, unused items.

Use Anti-Mold and Anti-Bacterial Products Regularly

Specialized cleaning products prevent mold growth. Go beyond cleaning the tub, sink, and toilet—dilute a cleaning solution and wipe walls, baseboards, and inside cabinets to stop bacterial spread. Look for mild household cleaners with fungicides to combat mold.

Reduce Organic Fabrics

Replace cotton shower curtains with plastic ones or purchase mold-resistant varieties. Remove decorative towels, rugs, and fabric items not in regular use, and wash mats frequently.

Inspect the Ventilation System

Ventilation is key. Ensure ducts are clean and filters are replaced regularly. Blocked vents can cause condensation when hot air cools down.

Open the Bathroom Door After Showering

Instead of trapping humidity in the bathroom, open the door to let moist air disperse and mix with the drier air in the rest of the house.

Seal Vulnerable Surfaces

Clean grout between tiles and apply a sealant. Wooden surfaces and countertops may also require a fresh coat of sealant. Replace old caulking around plumbing fixtures with new, waterproof material.

Reducing bathroom humidity involves proper ventilation, wiping down surfaces after use, and minimizing items that can trap moisture. By taking these steps, you can prevent the growth of harmful organisms and maintain a healthier home environment.