Pink Stains or Pink Slime in Tubs, Toilets, and Sinks

What are these Pink Stains?

Pink stains show up in different parts of the United States. Lab reults indicate that they are caused by either an airborne yeast or a bacteria called Serratia marcescens that could enter any house in a variety of ways. It can grow easily on wet surfaces and is usually found in toilets, sinks, and tub drains that don’t thoroughly dry.

Most importantly it does not come from the water, as is often thought.

How to Get Rid of the Stains and Keep Them Away

It is best to frequently clean and dry the affected areas. Bleach or another strong disinfectant can also help to prevent regrowth.

A home that is “open” can allow more of the bacteria or yeast to enter, but may also contribute to better drying. A closed but heated house will have less outdoor air entering but tends to be drier.

Besides the air movement and drying conditions, the yeast and bacteria can also enter a house via grocery bags or any other material that is brought in from the outdoors.