Mold in Shower Heads

[WakaWaka]

Since a lot of our feathered friends enjoy their baths and some of them spend time in the shower, we thought we would pass this article on to everyone for consideration.

We watched an article last night about tests performed on shower heads. They took swabs from various places and sent them to a lab for testing.

The results were very concerning.

Anyway here is the link to the article from Inside Edition regarding the concerns and tests.
https://www.insideedition.com/could...king-you-sick-what-inside-edition-found-52543

If anyone or their fids have experienced unexplained infections or sickness, a moldy or bacteria infested shower head could be a potential source of problems.

Not trying to start mass hysteria, just raising awareness and hoping for a constructive discussion.

 

[dhraiden]

Always good to ensure one's tub is properly aired out afterward, either with the use of a fan or via window (meshed) or door. I spray the tiles and wipe them down with a squeegee, including the faucet fixtures too, afterward (with birds out of room).

 

[SailBoat]

Truly great topic! And, I love your statement: "If anyone or their fids have experienced unexplained infections or sickness, a moldy or bacteria infested shower head could be a potential source of problems."

This 'tends' to be more of a problem with Property Owner Well Water sources than with City /Town Water that is chemically treated. But the likelihood of mold and bacteria issues exist in both. The problem exists where water contacts the air and the water remains until the next use. Shower heads are a common source since the valving sits far below the water in the shower head and results in water contacting the air for long enough periods to allow for the development of mold and/or bacteria.
If your shower has a handheld sprayer, trying setting it down (allowed to hang down) while the water is still on. Shutoff the water and a large amount of the water will drain from the hose /handheld sprayer.

Bleach is dangerous and should not be used around Birds. But, it also makes an excellent killer of mold and bacteria that builds-up in Shower Heads. Remove the Shower Head /Sprayer units to clean. FYI: I use bleach only outside and flush deeply and Sunshine dry before bring back in the home.

Note: Hot Water Heaters and energy savings. It is very possible to set your water heater temperature below the level of it killing bacteria in the belief that you are saving a few dollars, but could just as well be creating a wonderful place for mold and bacteria.

Again, thanks for the great topic

 

[WakaWaka]

Steven,

Thank you for your very informative added information.
Interesting thought about conserving energy on the water heater and possible doing more harm than good. Need to do more research on that.

BTW, I added the link that I forgot to include in my original post. Sorry about that

Dhraiden,
Anytime we use cleaners in the bathroom, we place a powerful fan in the window to ensure all fumes are drawn out. We replenish the air by opening another window on the other side of the house. Yes the rest of the bathroom needs to be clean too.

If anyone is experiencing any recurring issues with themselves or their fids, the shower head cleanliness may be worth investigating.

 

[Flboy]

The ice dispenser that is built into a refrigerator is also a nasty place! This one can be deadly!