Download Pink Stains on Bathroom Fixtures

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA WATER AND SEWER AUTHORITY
DEPARTMENT OF WATER SERVICES
WATER QUALITY DIVISION
3900 DONALDSON PLACE, NW, WASHINGTON, D.C. 20016
PINK STAINING IN YOUR BATHROOM AND OTHER WET AREAS
Pink stains appearing on toilets, showers, and other damp areas are often caused by a pink
biofilm. Biofilm is made up of many different bacteria and is known to adhere to and spread
easily on wet surfaces. Although pink biofilm is found in
wet environments, the bacteria are airborne, not
waterborne. Appearing as pink, orange, yellow and other
colors, biofilm are found nearly everywhere. Warm, moist
environments, such as bathtubs, sinks, showerheads,
shower curtains, and washing machines provide surfaces
for biofilm growth. In general, the bacteria found in pink
biofilm are not known to be a health risk for healthy
individuals; however, immune compromised individuals
should seek advice from a physician.
How to Remove Pink Stains
The most effective method to remove pink stains is to
disinfect and scrub the affected area. The presence of biofilm is difficult to permanently remove
and can return a month or so after cleaning surfaces. During the warmer months, routine
cleaning may be necessary. The recommended cleaning method is to scrub the affected area,
rinse with water, apply a disinfectant, scrub and rinse again, and allow the area to air dry. Wet
areas encourage biofilm growth so keeping surfaces dry can help slow and minimize biofilm
growth. Avoid dripping faucets and showerheads, wet shower curtains, closing washing
machine doors after use, and water that collects around sinks.
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Advice for Customers
Disinfect and scrub affected areas
Keep surfaces dry
Fix dripping faucets &
showerheads
Check the temperature of your hot
water heater
Bacteria can also grow in hot water heaters and
contribute to biofilm growth on wet surfaces in
your home. The water heater holding tank is a
wet, warm environment and may not maintain
chlorine disinfectant levels. If the water heater’s
temperature is not kept hot enough, bacteria
can grow and cause problems. This supports
the common recommendation that only cold
water should be used for cooking and drinking.
The Occupational Health and Safety Administration recommends that residential hot water be
maintained at a minimum of 122° F (50° C) at the tap and 140° F (60° C) in the water heater to
reduce the risk of Legionella pneumophila bacterial growth. Also note, the temperature of the
hot water heater should not be too high that it can burn someone.
For further questions, contact DC WASA’s Water Quality Division at
202-612-3440 or [email protected].
Source: Soucie and Schuler. American Water Works Association. Opflow. “Customer Service: Avoiding Pink Stain Pain.” April
2006.