Mold Resources

What is Pink Bacteria?

Pink bacteria, such as Serratia marcescens, often appear in home environments with high moisture levels. This bacterium thrives in areas with prolonged humidity and water exposure, like bathrooms, kitchens, and around water fixtures. While Serratia marcescens is commonly mistaken for mold due to its appearance, it is a bacteria. Aureobasidium pullulans, another microorganism often found in these environments, is a type of mold that can also appear pink.

How Dangerous is Pink Bacteria?

Both bacteria and mold colonies release microscopic particles into the air. In the case of bacteria, these may include endotoxins and exotoxins, while mold can release spores and mycotoxins (toxins produced by mold when it feels threatened). As these microorganisms grow, the release of particles increases, potentially lowering indoor air quality and leading to health issues.

Exposure to Serratia marcescens can trigger infections in some people, particularly those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms include respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, and in some cases, wound infections. Inhalation of mold spores can cause allergic reactions, asthma flare-ups, and a range of other health problems such as headaches, coughing, skin rashes, and brain fog. It’s important to address microbial growth, including pink bacteria and mold, to minimize health risks.

What Causes Pink Bacteria?

Pink bacteria and mold require moisture to grow, which means they are often found in areas with high humidity, condensation, standing water, or damp surfaces.

Common areas for pink bacteria include:

• Shower curtains
• Shower walls
• Bathtubs
• Grout and caulk
• Humidifiers
• Dishwashers
• Toilets
• Showerheads
• Sink faucets

How to Get Rid of Pink Bacteria

Regardless of color, all mold and bacteria should be treated similarly:

1. Fix the source of moisture that caused the growth.
2. Use proper engineering controls, personal protective equipment (PPE), and remediation protocols to minimize exposure and prevent cross-contamination.
3. Remove all microbial growth, including roots, dead particles, and fragments.
4. Eliminate any contamination, including mycotoxins and bacteria.
5. Clean the affected area thoroughly to remove any particles released by the growth.

How to Prevent Pink Bacteria

The best way to deal with pink bacteria is to prevent it from growing in the first place. This involves eliminating moisture and cleaning frequently to eliminate any bacteria that made it's way inside as well as organic matter it can use for growth.

Some steps to prevent pink bacteria include:

• Improve airflow in humid areas like kitchens and bathrooms to keep humidity levels between 35-50%.
• Address any leaks or structural issues that allow moisture intrusion promptly.
• Regularly clean appliances such as humidifiers and dishwashers.
• Ensure dehumidifiers, humidifiers, and dishwashers are dried properly after use.
• Remove wet clothes from the laundry immediately and keep the washer door open to dry.
• Use botanical cleaning products with surfactants, a HEPA vacuum cleaner, and microfiber towels for cleaning.
• Wash machine-washable items with a laundry additive like EC3 to remove microscopic particles.
• Separate the shower curtain and liner after use.
• Squeegee the shower after use to remove excess water.
• Regularly clean the home and dry bath mats, towels, loofahs, and other wet items after use.
• Clean and maintain toothbrushes and their holders.
• Clean the showerhead monthly.
• Invest in an air purifier.
• Upgrade to the highest-rated MERV filter your HVAC system can support and replace them as recommended.