Why Bathrooms Get Humid (and How to Manage It)
Understanding Bathroom Humidity and How to Control It
Bathrooms are naturally humid spaces due to hot showers, poor ventilation, and limited airflow. Excess humidity can lead to mould growth, peeling paint, and water damage, making it essential to manage moisture levels properly.
Here’s why bathrooms get humid and what you can do to keep your space dry, fresh, and mould-free.
1. Why Do Bathrooms Get So Humid?
🚿 Common causes of bathroom humidity:
✔ Hot showers and baths – Steam increases moisture levels in the air.
✔ Poor ventilation – Without an exhaust fan or open windows, humidity gets trapped.
✔ Cold surfaces – Mirrors, tiles, and windows attract condensation when warm steam meets cool surfaces.
✔ Leaking pipes or taps – Constant moisture adds to the humidity problem.
💡 Tip: If your bathroom mirror stays fogged up for a long time, humidity levels may be too high.
2. How to Reduce Bathroom Humidity
🔹 Use an Exhaust Fan (or Improve Your Current One)
✔ Turn on your exhaust fan before showering and leave it running for 10–15 minutes afterward.
✔ If your fan isn’t removing steam effectively, consider upgrading to a more powerful model.
✔ Clean the fan’s filter and vents regularly for optimal airflow.
💡 Tip: If you don’t have an exhaust fan, leave the door open after showering to let steam escape.
🔹 Increase Airflow with Windows & Doors
✔ Open windows or doors during and after showers to let moisture escape.
✔ Keep the bathroom door slightly open if possible to prevent trapped humidity.
✔ Place a small fan or dehumidifier in the bathroom if ventilation is limited.
💡 Tip: If your bathroom has no windows, running the exhaust fan longer is the best way to reduce humidity.
🔹 Wipe Down Wet Surfaces After Use
✔ Use a squeegee or towel to wipe down shower screens, tiles, and benchtops after each use.
✔ Dry around the sink to prevent excess moisture buildup.
✔ Remove wet towels and bath mats—hang them outside or in a well-ventilated area.
💡 Tip: Keeping surfaces dry prevents mould growth and water damage.
🔹 Reduce Steam from Showers
✔ Take shorter, cooler showers to produce less steam.
✔ Partially open the shower door or curtain to let air circulate.
✔ Use a bathroom-safe anti-fog spray on mirrors to reduce condensation.
💡 Tip: Lowering your shower temperature just slightly significantly reduces steam buildup.
🔹 Fix Leaks & Improve Drainage
✔ Check for leaking taps, pipes, or showerheads, as even slow drips increase moisture levels.
✔ Make sure drains are clear to prevent water pooling in sinks or showers.
✔ If grout or caulking is cracked, replace it to stop water from seeping into walls and floors.
💡 Tip: Persistent moisture problems could indicate hidden leaks, which may require professional repair.
3. Preventing Mould and Mildew Growth
Excess humidity creates the perfect environment for mould. Keep your bathroom dry with these simple tips:
✔ Run the exhaust fan or open a window after every shower.
✔ Wash and dry bath mats and towels regularly to prevent damp odours.
✔ Use a vinegar-water spray on tiles and grout to prevent mould growth.
✔ Store toiletries outside the shower to reduce soap scum buildup.
💡 Tip: If you see mould starting to appear, clean it immediately with a bathroom-safe cleaner.
4. When to Seek Professional Help
📞 Call a professional if you notice:
✔ Peeling paint or swollen cabinetry – A sign of long-term humidity damage.
✔ Persistent mould growth – Even after cleaning and improving ventilation.
✔ Damp walls or flooring – May indicate hidden leaks or poor waterproofing.
✔ An exhaust fan that isn’t working properly – Upgrading may be necessary.
💡 Tip: If humidity problems persist, a plumber or ventilation specialist can assess the situation and recommend long-term solutions.
Final Thoughts: Keep Your Bathroom Dry and Comfortable
Managing bathroom humidity is essential for preventing mould, protecting fixtures, and improving comfort. By improving ventilation, wiping down wet surfaces, and fixing leaks early, you can maintain a fresh, dry, and well-maintained bathroom.
At Custom Bathroom Creations, we design bathrooms with proper airflow and moisture control in mind—helping you enjoy a space that stays clean and functional for years to come!
Need expert advice on moisture control? Contact us today!