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Pink residue in sinks and toilets

  Pink residue in sinks, toilets, and showers or wherever surfaces are moist or water pools for a period of time.

 

  1. The pink residue is a slimy anaerobic bacteria (Serratia Marcescens), generally harmless in your home, although they do cause problems in hospitals and other places where people are immune-deprived. In those situations, the bacteria can cause urinary tract and wound infections.

  2. Anaerobic means oxygen is not required to sustain life. T 

  3. Anaerobic means oxygen is not required to sustain life. The bacteria feed on fatty substances such as the residue of soap or shampoo. The color is created when the colony expands.​

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  5. This bacteria is present in the air and has nothing to do with the quality or type of water coming out of your tap.

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  7. The experts recommend cleaning the pink residue with chlorine bleach and a plastic-bristle brush, being careful not to scratch the porcelain or damage the flapper in the tank, and other parts of the toilet with the bleach.

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  9. For hard to reach areas, try an old toothbrush dipped in bleach, wear gloves, and protect your eyes from the harsh chemicals. 

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