'I'm a bathroom expert - mould could be lurking in this unexpected area'

Bathroom mould can be hiding in some pretty unexpected places (Image: Getty)

It's a well-known fact that during the autumn and winter months, condensation is more likely to appear on your windows due to the contrast between the cold air outside and the warm air inside. 

When the humid air hits the cool glass, tiny droplets of water are formed, which can result in excess damp over time - and eventually cause mould spores to form.

Not only is mould an eyesore on your walls or ceilings, but it can also pose severe health risks if it's not dealt with promptly. 

When mould is clearly visible in your home, tackling it is simple. 

But mould can also be lurking in some pretty hard-to-reach areas that you may have never considered before, according to experts. 

Bathroom mould can be tricky to tackle (Image: Getty)

Whilst there are many cleaning products and hacks for removing mould, the pros say that understanding what can cause its growth to begin with is key to preventing any long term interior damage as well as health issues.

Rikki Fothergill, bathroom design expert at online bathroom specialist Big Bathroom Shop, has revealed how some everyday items are shockingly linked to mould growth and advised on how to keep them clean.

And one of thes little-known places that might secretly be causing mould growth is your shampoo and conditioner bottles, usually found on the side of your bath or shower. 

Bottles of shampoo, soap, or other toiletries can collect water at their base, especially if left on damp surfaces, leading to mould growth.

Rikki advised: “Wipe down bottles after use, store them on shelves or racks with proper drainage, and avoid leaving them directly on wet surfaces like the bath edge or shower tray.”

Another common culprit for mould growth in the bathroom is sponges or loofahs. Because they often remain damp for extended periods of time, they create the perfect environment for mould to thrive. 

To prevent this, rinse loofahs thoroughly after each use and store them in a dry, well-ventilated area.

Rikki added: “Consider replacing them every three to four weeks or switching to quick-drying alternatives like silicone scrubbers.”

As well as this, shower curtains, especially vinyl or fabric ones, retain moisture and humidity that increased mould growth.

Whilst regularly washing the shower curtain in hot water and hanging it out to dry is a good preventative method, Rikki suggests: "A glass shower screen is much more hygienic if it’s an option you can consider in your bathroom layout."

Similar to shower curtains, bath mats, especially those with rubber backing, are likely to cause mould growth. These trap moisture from wet feet and remain damp which creates a risk of growth both on the floor and the mat.

Rikki recommended: “Wash bathroom rugs regularly in hot water and allow them to dry fully. Avoid placing them in direct contact with damp floors or use quick-dry mats made from materials like bamboo or microfiber.”