How to stop mould on bathroom ceiling

We get mould on the bathroom ceiling despite having an extractor fan. It comes back every few months so what's going on? What can I do to finally get rid of it?

Asked by Karen on 22nd Jun 2026
Expert Trade Answers
"Hi you can treat the mold then once dry paint only using an anti mold paint, the extractor possibly won't be enough and you need more air flow so fit trickle vents on window or leave window open on the slight lock so there is constant air flow also leave bathroom door open after bath or shower. Never shut windows even in cold weather. All down to right condition for the mold with moisture and humidity."
Answered on 22nd Jun 2026 - Member since Oct 2024 - report
"Mould is usually caused from moisture on the ceiling which cannot evaporate or dry because of poor ventilation.

Do you have a window in your bathroom also or purely extractor??

If extractor is only option then probably look into the extractor either inadequately placed in the bathroom or if it is then maybe an extractor upgrade of check the ducting from your extractor.

These are a few factors to consider. Hope this helps?"
Answered on 22nd Jun 2026 - Member since May 2026 - report
"Mould on a bathroom ceiling is usually caused by excess moisture, condensation, or poor ventilation. Even if you have an extractor fan, it may not be powerful enough, could be blocked with dust, or may not be left running long enough after showers.

To permanently reduce mould, I recommend the following:

- Check your extractor fan – Make sure it is working efficiently and vents outside the property, not into the loft. It should ideally run for 15–20 minutes after showering.
- Improve ventilation – Open a window after bathing where possible and keep the bathroom door closed during showers to stop moisture spreading through the house.
- Reduce condensation – Wipe down walls, mirrors and ceilings after hot showers to remove excess moisture.
- Use an anti-mould treatment – Clean the affected area with a specialist mould remover, then repaint the ceiling with a quality anti-mould bathroom paint containing mould-resistant additives.
- Check insulation – Cold ceilings can attract condensation. Poor loft insulation or thermal bridging can make mould return even with good ventilation.
- Look for hidden leaks – If the mould is concentrated in one area, there could be a leaking pipe, roof issue or defective seal allowing moisture into the ceiling.

If the mould continues to return after trying these steps, it may be worth having the property inspected by a damp and condensation specialist. In many cases, the issue isn't the mould itself—it's identifying and eliminating the source of the excess moisture.

A professional inspection can usually determine whether the problem is due to condensation, inadequate ventilation, penetrating damp or a hidden leak, allowing the correct long-term solution to be put in place rather than repeatedly cleaning the mould."
Answered on 21st Jul 2026 - Member since Jul 2026 - report
"Make sure that the windows are open Daly to let the Air circulate and you can also get a dehumidifier"
Answered on 22nd Jun 2026 - Member since Feb 2026 - report
"Ventilation, Use a Karcher Window Vac after showering. HG Mould Spray.
Extractor Remove Damp towels
Moisture management."
Answered on 22nd Jun 2026 - Member since Jul 2025 - report
"Ventilation and circulation are key factors when combating mould and condensation problems, a high spec well reviewed extractor fan will definitely help to reduce condensation and mould ingress! Also trickle vents on windows will provide extra ventilation.

As for the mould, the ceiling may need re-boarding with moisture boards and re skimming."
Answered on 8th Jul 2026 - Member since Oct 2023 - report
"I’d use sugar soap wash off mould once dry I’d use a zinzer sealer coat wher mould normally appears and then use either proper bathroom paint or a oil base paint on ceiling"
Answered on 24th Jun 2026 - Member since Aug 2023 - report
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