Thread: Mildew odour in bathroom

Inspected a condo yesterday and found a "mildew" odour in one bathroom, when I turned on the shower. Didn't find the same issue in the ensuite. Didn't notice the odour anywhere else and didn't notice the odour until I turned on the shower.

Moisture meter did not indicate a moisture problems anywhere.

I reported the odour in the report and pointed it out to the client. She will be calling a plumber for some other issues and sugested that she have him investigate this at the same time.

I'm interested in hearing any feedback about this since I have noticed a similar issue in one on my bathrooms, in my townhouse.

Thanks,
Doug

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Grungy shower, vacant apartment, don't give it too much thought. Probably there is stuff growing in the plumbing fixtures that just needs a good flushing. There is also dirt and dead skin in the crevices and under the silicone caulking. Nice.

Just a thought here Doug,
When you turned on the shower the spray will create some air currents
they may churn up some low lying odors in the shower/bathroom.
Jeff

A Plastic shower curtain can harbour mildew/mold, as can dirty towels and bath mats that are not hung up properly so they can dry out.

Thanks for all your comments.
They may apply to the condo, but not to my townhouse.
The grout and caulking look good, the shower curtain is two months old.
I suspect that some water may have gotten into the wall behind the tiled wall and has since dried-out.
Guess I won't know for sure 'till I gut the bathroom - that may happen later this Spring.

Thanks anyway.
Doug

One other thought to add to the list, I have seen strange algae growth on shower heads and inside the shower head aerator that can have a strange odor.

could be hot water heater odor?? although it usually can cause a rotton egg odor from sac, rod??

Poor water quality?? test and see!!

if there is a floor drain, try pouring a gallon of water in. Gasses can back up when the water level is too low.