Pink Stains in Your Tub

Have you noticed your toilet or bathtub turning pink? It can seem like a never-ending job to keep them clean and the majority of us aren’t entirely sure what to do about it.

There are a couple different causes. While iron residue from pipes and wells can cause pink stains, most come from bacteria called Serratia Marcescens. People find that it is a problem somewhat easily resolved as long as they know what materials to use and how to use them.

But what exactly is Serratia and how does it form? How should it be addressed in different places around the home? And can you keep it from coming back?

Like most bacteria and yeast, Serratia makes its home in places that never completely dry. So you’ll most likely find its pigmented presence on toilets, sinks, and drains. But it doesn’t come in through the water. It comes in through the air— through open windows, attached to clothing, on your pets, etc.

We find that the best way to confront the issue is through a thorough cleaning with a soft brush of the affected areas, and then drying as much as possible. Obviously there are some areas that cannot be kept dry. These could prove to be your problem areas.

Like most bacteria, using bleach can help prevent regrowth. But remember: it can come back in again through those open windows on a summer day. And when it comes back in, it will search again for a moisture-rich place. It will find the drains and tubs and toilets that will allow it to grow. Which basically means you’ll have to address it again. And again.

But don’t fear! We are here to help. And to provide you with the help you need to keep your space clean and bacteria-free.