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While this bacterium is generally safe for healthy people, it can still cause infections if it comes into contact with an open wound or the eyes. In immunocompromised or hospitalised people, it can even lead to more serious infections such as urinary, respiratory or intestinal infections. Worse still, it is often resistant to antibiotics, which complicates its elimination when it causes an infection.
And that’s not all: the presence of Serratia marcescens may be a sign of a high humidity in your home, a factor that also favors the development of other moulds that are more harmful to the airways.
How to get rid of them effectively?
Good news: with the right gestures, you can prevent this bacterium from colonizing your bathroom.
- Ventilation and ventilation: A well-ventilated bathroom is the number one enemy of this bacterium. Open a window after each shower or use an extraction fan to remove moisture.
- Regular cleaning: Use white vinegar, sodium bicarbonate or an antibacterial disinfectant to clean risk areas (joints, siphons, shower curtains).
- Avoid soap residue: The bacterium feeds on the fatty deposits left by the soap and shampoo. Regular rinsing of the surfaces makes it possible to limit its appearance.
- Get the first few traces off quickly: As soon as you notice pink marks, clean them up immediately. The longer you wait, the stronger the bacterial colony becomes and becomes difficult to remove.
Don't let this bacterium settle down
Ignoring this famous “pink mud” could promote its development and, ultimately, lead to other, more serious problems. Adopting a few simple maintenance gestures will help you to keep a bathroom clean and healthy.
So, the next time you see this pink tint near your siphon, don't wait: clean immediately.
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