A doctor has warned about the ‘pink slime’ you may’ve spotted in your bathroom and why it’s probably not what you think it is
Thought you could just ignore that pink slime lingering around your shower drain? Think again.
A doctor has raised alarm on TikTok about the presence of “pink slime” in your bathroom, explaining that it could be a sign of a much larger issue. Dr. Karan Raj took to his platform after another user shared their experience of being hospitalized due to neglecting to clean the pink mold in their university accommodation’s showers. In his response, Dr. Raj clarified, “If you’ve noticed this pink slime in your bathroom, it’s not mold—it’s bacteria.”
The pink substance that often appears around drains or in bathroom crevices is actually a type of bacteria known as Serratia marcescens.
Dr. Karan explains that this bacteria is capable of “vomiting hot pink all over your bathroom.” He adds, “It thrives in damp, moist environments and feeds on fatty deposits like those found in soaps and shampoos, which is why it’s so common in bathrooms.”
According to the Infectious Disease Advisor, Serratia marcescens can be found in soil, water, plants, and animals. In homes and hospitals, it tends to grow in the corners of wet showers or wash basins, visible due to the red-colored pigment (prodigiosin) it produces.
For the average person, Dr. Karan reassures, this bacteria is generally harmless, even if you come into contact with it. However, he advises avoiding exposure to your eyes or any open wounds. The Infectious Disease Advisor adds that it can be more dangerous for hospitalized patients, as well as those who are immunocompromised or critically ill. The bacteria’s resistance to multiple antibiotics makes it challenging to treat.
Dr. Karan highlights that Serratia marcescens can lead to infections in the gut, urinary tract, or chest in vulnerable individuals. Furthermore, if your home is damp enough to support the growth of pink slime, it may also be a breeding ground for other issues like household mold, which can contribute to respiratory problems or allergies.
So, what should you do about it?
Dr. Karan’s top advice? “The first rule of Pink Slime Club is to stop the bacteria from forming in the first place.” He explains that by curbing its growth, you’re also preventing other potentially dangerous molds from taking root.
To keep pink slime at bay, Dr. Karan recommends keeping your bathroom well-ventilated. Consider installing an exhaust fan or simply cracking a window when the room gets steamy. And don’t forget to break out the disinfectant—giving your bathroom a thorough scrubdown will help keep it clean and slime-free.
