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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. 9 9 9 9 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.