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 expert, has identified five of the most common bathroom mistakes made by Brits and provided practical solutions to fix them. By addressing these issues, you can ensure a safer and healthier bathroom environment for your home. Here are the top mistakes and how to prevent them from causing harm.
1. Ignoring Proper Ventilation
Poor ventilation in the bathroom leads to high humidity levels, creating the perfect environment for mould and mildew to thrive. Over time, mould spores can spread throughout your home, affecting air quality. Exposure to mould can cause various health issues, including respiratory problems, asthma, and allergies. Additionally, constant dampness can weaken the structural integrity of walls and ceilings, leading to costly repairs.
Solution: Ensure your bathroom is properly ventilated by using an extractor fan every time you shower or bathe. If your bathroom doesn’t have a fan, open a window to allow moisture to escape. Regularly clean the fan to keep it functioning efficiently. Consider investing in a dehumidifier if your bathroom is particularly prone to dampness. Regularly check for signs of mould, and address any issues immediately by cleaning with mould-killing solutions and improving ventilation.
2. Overlooking Water Temperature
Setting the water heater too high can lead to scalding injuries, which are particularly 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 prevent scalding, set your water heater to a safe temperature, typically around 120°F (49°C). Test the water temperature before getting into the shower or bath, especially when bathing children or elderly family members. Consider installing anti-scald devices on taps and showerheads that automatically adjust the water temperature if it gets too hot. Always supervise young children in the bathroom to ensure they don’t accidentally adjust the water temperature.
3. Ignoring Hidden Leaks
Small leaks under the sink or behind the toilet might seem minor, but over time they can lead to significant water damage and mould growth. This not only impacts the structural integrity of your home but also poses health risks, as mould can cause respiratory issues, allergies, and other health problems. Additionally, hidden leaks can result in higher water bills and waste a significant amount of water.
Solution: Regularly inspect areas around the sink, toilet, and bathtub for signs of leaks, such as dampness, discolouration, or a musty smell. Address any leaks immediately by tightening connections, replacing worn-out seals, or calling a plumber if necessary. Consider installing leak detectors that can alert you to the presence of water in hidden areas, allowing you to act quickly before the damage worsens. Fixing small leaks promptly can prevent costly repairs and health risks in the future.
4. Neglecting to Replace Old Shower Curtains
Over time, shower curtains can become a breeding ground for bacteria, mould, and mildew, especially if they’re constantly damp. This can lead to unpleasant odours, unsightly stains, and more importantly, respiratory issues or skin infections, especially in individuals with allergies or weakened immune systems.
Solution: Replace your shower curtain regularly, especially if it starts showing signs of mould or mildew. Choose shower curtains made from mildew-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 mould. Ensure the curtain is fully extended after each use to allow it to dry properly, reducing the risk of mould growth.
5. Storing Cleaning Products Improperly
Many bathroom cleaning products contain toxic chemicals that can be harmful if ingested, inhaled, or even touched. Storing these products within easy reach of children or in unmarked containers can lead to accidental poisonings, which can cause serious health problems or even be fatal. Even for adults, improper storage can result in chemical burns, respiratory issues, or accidental mixing of incompatible chemicals, which can release dangerous fumes.
Solution: Store all cleaning products in a secure, child-proof cabinet, preferably one that is out of reach of children. Keep products in their original containers with clear labels to prevent confusion. Never mix different cleaning products, as this can cause dangerous chemical reactions. Consider switching to non-toxic, environmentally friendly cleaning products that pose less risk to health. Educate your household about the dangers of these chemicals and the importance of handling them carefully.
