Doctor's urgent warning about 'pink slime' in bathrooms which could cause UTIs

14 January 2024 , 15:41

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It's important to tackle any 'pink slime' that might appear in your bathroom (stock image) (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Bathroom mould is worrying in itself, but can easily be cleaning with a few hacks, but if you've spotted something resembling pink slime in the shower, you might want to be careful.

An NHS doctor has issued an urgent warning after a video showing a young man who had been hospitalised, reportedly due to 'pink mould', in his university accommodation shower, went viral. Dr Karan Rangarajan, also known as Dr Karan Rajan online, explained why people need to be wary of this so-called 'pink slime'.

According to the health expert, it isn't actually mould at all - it's actually a bacteria which could cause a number of infections. In a video uploaded to TikTok, he warned: "If you've seen this pink slime lurking in your bathroom, it's not mould, it's bacteria. Specifically one called serratia marcescens and it vomits hot pink all over your bathroom.

"This bacteria loves damp, moist places and enjoys munching on fatty deposits like those found in soaps and shampoos, hence why it likes to hang out in your steamy bathroom."

The doctor warned that for the "average person it's pretty harmless" but that you should still "avoid getting it in your eyes or open wounds". He added: "However, it can cause gut, urine, or chest infections in those who are immunocompromised."

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If you experience any worrying symptoms, you should speak to a GP urgently.

If the pink slime has developed in your home, it's likely that there are damp conditions, which means there's also likely mould present, which can cause "respiratory issues or allergies". It's important to stop the pink slime forming in the first place by making sure your bathroom is well ventilated - either by regularly opening windows or using an etxractor fan.

You should also regularly clean and disinfect your bathroom" as it's "filthier than you think". Luckily, if you've already got pink slime in the bathroom, there are things you can do to help.

Many over the counter products such as bleach should get rid of the bacteria - but a grout cleaner may be needed for more stubborn stains. If using bleach or strong cleaning products, it is advised to wear gloves and ensure the room is well ventilated.

Previously, a social media user raved about Cillit Bang's Black Mould Remover - arguing it worked much more effectively than bleach. Simply spray the solution onto the affected area and leave for 15 minutes for wiping off. You can buy a 750ml bottle of the cleaner for just £3.65 on Amazon.

Ariane Sohrabi-Shiraz