Whether you climb in first thing in the morning to kick off the new day or wash the old day away in the evening, the shower can feel like a bit of a refuge.
The simple yet pleasant act of letting the hot water embrace you might prompt you to stay under the stream as long as you can, but an expert has warned this could be a mistake.
Worryingly, taking a long shower could not only ramp up your water bill, but it could also pose a health risk.
Matthew Jenkins, heating expert at MyJobQuote, said: “The longer the shower, the bigger the moisture build up in your bathroom on walls, ceilings and tiles.
“If the bathroom lacks proper ventilation, the excess moisture from longer hot showers can become trapped.” Over time, this could trigger mould growth.
Worryingly, mould can lead to nasal congestion, sneezing, cough, wheezing, respiratory infections and worsen existing asthma and allergic conditions.
Jenkins said: “Everyday habits play a significant role in the prevalence of mould in our homes. A combination of neglecting proper ventilation and careless daily habits can fuel mould growth.
“It’s crucial for homeowners to be mindful of their daily habits and take proactive measures to mitigate moisture levels. By encouraging ventilation and maintaining a clutter-free environment, we can reduce the risk of mould infestation.”
The expert’s warning comes as searches for “how to get rid of mould” have increased by 388 percent in the UK in the last 12 months.
Fortunately, hot shower lovers could still enjoy their wash as long as they ensure an “adequate ventilation”.
Jenkins said: “Opening the door a crack, turning the fan on and opening a window all help to get rid of moisture following a long shower.
“If you find water spills on tiles or the side, either squeegee the spills or mop up with a clean, dry cloth.”
Furthermore, there’s one more mistake that occurs after you had your shower that could also exacerbate mould growth. The expert warned that leaving wet towels on the floor can be a breeding ground for mould, especially in a moisture-filled room like a bathroom.
Jenkins said: “Mould thrives when towels are left in a heap on the floor as there’s little air circulation, a damp environment and low light for parts of the towel when screwed up in a ball. This makes them an incubator for black mould colonies.
“The time it takes for a towel to mould will depend on how hospitable your bathroom is for mould and mildew – but if conditions are right, your towel can start mildewing in as little as 12 hours.”
Therefore, the expert recommended ensuring you hang your wet towels on a towel rail to “significantly” reduce your chances of mould.
“Furthermore, when the time comes to wash your towels, ensure they’re properly dry before throwing them in the laundry hamper or this can encourage mould growth in your hamper and on other clothes that it comes into contact with,” he added.
