Moisture makes bathrooms attractive to mold and mildew growth. A leaky seal under a toilet can allow water to seep between vinyl floor covering and wood or the concrete subflooring, encouraging mold growth. A loose connection under a sink may allow mold to grow inside a vanity cabinet. Or, a shower curtain or door may restrict air flow and encourage mold and mildew growth in the bath or shower.

Molds are microscopic fungi that require moisture to grow. They thrive on organic materials, natural fibers such as cotton or wool, paper or wood.

Mold and mildew, which are very common household problems, can cause discoloration on bathroom tile or other fixtures, on walls, around windows and between layers of flooring.

Molds vary in color--from white to orange, green, black or brown--and usually produce a musty odor. Home-owners and renters can sometimes detect by odor these growths in poorly lighted or unexposed areas, such as behind baseboards. However, that is not always the case.

Follow these tips to reduce mold and mildew in the bath and shower areas:

To clean mold and mildew from bath and shower areas, scrub surfaces with a solution prepared with one cup liquid chlorine bleach, one tablespoon of detergent that does not contain ammonia and one gallon of water. Rubber gloves and glasses or protective eyewear are recom-mended. If possible, ventilate the area to avoid breathing the fumes.

If shower curtains can be laundered by machine, add chlorine bleach with detergent. For plastic curtains, use a warm water rinse and hang curtains to reduce wrinkling.

For more information on mold and mildew contact your local University of Missouri Extension Center or visit the web site at: