How to ensure long-lasting pleasure in your wellness oasis

For many people, the bathroom is a central place of well-being. To make sure it always stays that way, it must be well maintained. This applies not only to design elements such as luxury sanitaryware, but also to inconspicuous details such as sanitary joints. Our expert explains what is required to effectively control humidity and thus give mold no chance

Tip 1: Prevent or effectively remove moisture

Splash water around the shower or bathtub, water vapor on the tiles released by washer and dryer, condensation on the windows – humidity in the bathroom is a constant companion that we would be happy to get rid of. The problem, however, is not the moisture itself, but the joints on which it deposits. There are numerous joints around sanitary fixtures, windows and along the transitions between tiled and non-tiled areas. They are usually sealed with silicone to prevent water and vapor from penetrating walls and floors. Silicone is permanently elastic and waterproof, but like all materials it is subject to ageing and should therefore be well maintained. It is true that some joint sealants contain fungicides against mold spores. But their effect gradually wears off over the years. To prevent mold infestation permanently and reliably, the following four measures have proven to be effective:

1. Dry the joints regularly, especially after showering – this keeps them elastic and tight.
2. Clean the joints with a mild cleaning agent.
3. Ventilate the rooms briefly but intensely several times a day – this extends the durability of the joints.
4. Always heat the bathroom sufficiently in the cool and cold seasons.

Tip 2: Fight mold effectively or replace the silicone sealant

Everyone knows that our discipline is not always optimal when it comes to airing the bathroom. Sooner or later, deposits will therefore form on the joints, which in the long run will cause mold to grow. This not only looks unsightly but is also most unhealthy for the residents. You should therefore regularly check for mold infestation, and then remove the “uninvited guest” quickly with common household cleaners such as dishwashing liquid, vinegar essence or scouring cream. However, take care not to damage the silicone joints. Otherwise, they will become even more susceptible to mold spores. If the joints are already a bit older and slightly porous, this is a weak spot where mold can quickly penetrate. And then even the most aggressive cleaning agents will not help eliminate the problem. In this case, there is only one remedy: the silicone sealant must be completely replaced.