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4th January 2024
05:27pm GMT
Kacie Stephens, founder of The Big Clean Co cleaning company, took to social media to explain that the slimy pink mildew is not mould but a potentially harmful bacteria.
Posting on TikTok, in the video Kacie can be heard saying: "This pink mould? It's not mould at all. It's a type of bacteria called Serratia Marcescens.
"It thrives in warm, humid areas feeding off fatty deposits like soap residue - making the bathroom the perfect place for it to grow.
@kacie_thebigcleanco PINK MOULD (yes, I mean MOLD if you’re American) is not actually mould at all, it’s bacteria. The build up of it on your shower can cause infections, so make sure you’re washing it away regularly.
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"The build-up of it in your shower can cause infections, so make sure you’re washing it away regularly."
Though in many cases the bacteria is harmless, when it comes into contact with open wounds, those who are immunocompromised or if you ingest it can become dangerous, causing infections.
This is exactly why Kacie recommends cleaning any of these nasty pink marks as soon as you notice them.
Luckily, it's easy enough to get rid of with the expert recommending the use of dishwashing liquid and baking soda, as well as bleach.
The video racked up over a million views and 3,000 likes with many people thanking Kacie for explaining what they were really dealing with.
"I have never had this I only just heard of this recently and was disgusted," penned one person.
"I always thought it was soap scum," commented someone else with another adding: "I always thought it must be maybe makeup buildup!!!!"
Another offered their own cleaning advice writing: "Cillit Bang Power Cleaner Black Mould Remover. Spray on, leave for 15 minutes and shower or wipe away. Better than bleach."
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