We all love a hot, steamy shower—especially in the cooler months. There’s nothing quite like stepping out of the bathroom feeling refreshed and relaxed.
But did you know that one simple habit you probably do after every shower could be quietly damaging your home and inviting mould to move in?
It’s a common belief that closing the bathroom door after a shower is the polite thing to do. After all, who wants steam drifting through the house, fogging up mirrors and windows?
But according to Peter Jones, director of ADI Leak Detection, this well-meaning habit is actually doing your home more harm than good.
‘People think they’re being considerate by keeping the steam in the bathroom, but they’re actually creating the perfect conditions for mould and structural damage,’ Jones explains.
‘Think of your bathroom as a terrarium after you close that door. All that water vapour gets trapped and starts looking for places to settle. That’s when the real damage begins.’
Why is this such a problem? When steam is trapped in a small, enclosed space, it quickly condenses on cold surfaces—mirrors, tiles, paint, and even wooden fixtures.
Over time, this lingering moisture can lead to unsightly mould, peeling paint, warped wood, and even rot. And if you’ve ever tried to get rid of mould, you’ll know it’s a stubborn, unhealthy houseguest.
The simple solution: Let the air flow
The good news is that preventing this kind of damage is surprisingly easy. The best thing you can do after a shower is to open the bathroom door and, if possible, a window. This allows the humid air to escape and drier air from the rest of the house to circulate, helping everything dry out much faster.
‘Airflow is everything when it comes to moisture control,’ says Jones. ‘Your extractor fan can only do so much if you’re working against it by trapping all that humid air in one space. Think of it like trying to empty a bucket with a small hole while someone keeps pouring water in—you’re fighting a losing battle.’
So, next time you finish your shower, resist the urge to shut yourself (and the steam) in. Instead, throw open the door and let your bathroom breathe.
Extra steps for a mould-free home
If you want to go the extra mile, here are a few more habits that can make a big difference:
- Use your exhaust fan properly: Turn it on before you start your shower and leave it running for at least 15–20 minutes afterwards. This helps draw out the moist air.
- Squeegee surfaces: After showering, use a squeegee to remove excess water from glass, tiles, and even the shower floor. This simple step can dramatically reduce the amount of moisture left to evaporate into the air.
- Open windows: If your bathroom has a window, open it as wide as possible, especially on sunny or breezy days. Sunlight and fresh air are natural enemies of mould.
- Keep other rooms ventilated: The same principles apply throughout your home. Open windows in bedrooms, living rooms, and the kitchen regularly to keep air moving and moisture levels down.
- Use a dehumidifier: If you live in a particularly damp area or your home is prone to condensation, a dehumidifier can help keep humidity in check.
- Kitchen caution: Don’t forget the kitchen! Use your extractor fan not just for smoky or smelly cooking, but also when boiling water or frying. Let it run for a few minutes after you finish cooking to clear out lingering moisture.
Credit: Chantel Milla / TikTok
When to call in the pros
If you’re doing all the right things and still battling dampness, persistent mould, or signs of structural damage, it might be time to call in a professional.
Sometimes, hidden leaks or poor insulation can make moisture problems worse, and expert advice can save you a lot of hassle (and money) in the long run.
Why it matters
For many older Australians, maintaining a healthy, comfortable home is a top priority. Mould isn’t just unsightly—it can trigger allergies, asthma, and other respiratory issues, which can be especially concerning as we age. Plus, repairs for water damage and rot can be costly and disruptive.
Your turn: What’s your bathroom routine?
Have you ever battled bathroom mould or discovered water damage in your home? Do you have any tried-and-true tips for keeping your bathroom fresh and dry? We’d love to hear your stories and advice—share your thoughts in the comments below!
Remember, sometimes the smallest changes make the biggest difference. So next time you step out of the shower, let the fresh air in—your home (and your health) will thank you.
Also read: Is black mould really as bad for us as we think? A toxicologist explains
