How do I prevent mold in my shower?

Proper ventilation and moisture control are the keys to preventing shower mold. The most important step is ensuring your bathroom fan runs during and for 30 minutes after each shower to remove humid air before it condenses on surfaces.

Ventilation is your first line of defense. Your bathroom exhaust fan should move at least 1 CFM per square foot of bathroom space - so a 50 square foot bathroom needs a 50 CFM fan minimum. In Ottawa's climate with cold winters, proper ventilation prevents warm, moist air from condensing on cold surfaces where mold thrives. If your current fan is loud or weak, upgrading to a quality Panasonic WhisperCeiling or similar model will encourage regular use.

Daily maintenance habits make a huge difference. After each shower, squeegee or wipe down shower walls to remove standing water. Leave the shower door or curtain partially open to allow air circulation. Weekly cleaning with a mold-preventing cleaner helps eliminate soap scum and organic matter that mold feeds on. Pay special attention to grout lines, corners, and areas around fixtures where water tends to collect.

Proper waterproofing during renovation prevents long-term mold issues. If you're planning a shower renovation, ensure your contractor installs a proper waterproof membrane behind tiles, uses mold-resistant materials like cement board instead of drywall, and seals all penetrations correctly. Quality grout and caulk with mold inhibitors provide better protection than basic products.

For persistent mold problems or if you're seeing mold behind tiles or fixtures, this often indicates a waterproofing failure that requires professional assessment. Want to discuss upgrading your shower with proper mold prevention? We offer free consultations to evaluate your current setup and recommend improvements.