Are Hot Showers Hurting My Bathroom?

Are Hot Showers Hurting My Bathroom?

One of the most refreshing and relaxing things you can do after a long day is take a hot shower. Whether you need the water to wash away your everyday stresses or the steam to clean your sinuses if you’ve spent the day sniffling, a long, hot shower can provide you with a truly satisfying experience.

But what if we told you that those hot showers can actually be doing a number on your bathroom? We’re sorry to say it, but they can.

How Hot Showers Hurt Your Bathroom

Steam Makes for Excess Moisture

Any hot shower is bound to produce a fair amount of steam. While that may be great for your skin and sinuses, it’s not so great for your bathroom’s humidity levels. For starters, if not removed via your exhaust fan, excess moisture can cause your paint or wallpaper to peel.

Combine the heat and moisture that steam brings and you may also find yourself with mold growth in your bathroom. Keep an eye out on your grout lines, the corners of your shower or tub, and around the bottom of your toilet. If you spot any blue, green, or black gunk, you may want to call a professional to discuss your potential humidity issues.

How to Combat Steam in Your Bathroom

Always Run Your Fan

Your fan has the sole job of removing excess humidity from your bathroom, so make sure to always turn it on before you take a shower. If you don’t have an exhaust fan, consider having one installed.

Open a Window

If there’s a window in your bathroom, crack it an inch or two while you’re taking a shower. It will allow humid air to move outside your home, and (especially in winter) dryer air can come inside.

For more help maintain good humidity levels in your home, trust the experts at Wahl Family Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing.