While this bacteria  is generally harmless  to healthy people, it can still cause infections if it comes into contact with  an open wound or the eyes . In people who  are immunocompromised or hospitalized , it can even cause more serious infections such as  urinary tract, respiratory or intestinal infections .  Worse still , it is often  resistant to antibiotics , which makes it difficult to eliminate it when it does cause an infection.

And that’s not all:  the presence of Serratia marcescens can be a sign of high humidity levels in your home , a factor that also promotes the development  of other molds that are more harmful to the respiratory tract .

How to get rid of it effectively?

Good news  : with the right actions, you can prevent this bacteria from  colonizing your bathroom .

• Ventilation and airing : A well-ventilated bathroom is  the number one enemy  of this bacteria.  Open a window after each shower or use an exhaust fan  to remove moisture.
• Regular cleaning : Use  white vinegar, baking soda or an antibacterial disinfectant  to clean risk areas (joints, drains, shower curtains).
• Avoid soap residue : The bacteria  feeds on the greasy deposits  left by soap and shampoo.  Regular rinsing of surfaces  helps limit its appearance.
• Remove the first traces quickly : As soon as you notice  pink traces , clean them immediately.  The longer you wait, the stronger the bacterial colony becomes and becomes difficult to eliminate.

Don’t let this bacteria take hold

Ignoring this famous  “pink slime”  could encourage its development and, in the long term,  lead to other more serious problems . Adopting  a few simple maintenance actions  will help you  keep a clean and healthy bathroom .

So,  the next time you spot that pink tint near your drain, don’t delay: clean it immediately!