What is the pink residue left by water?

About the Bacteria

Many experts agree that the bacteria that causes these pink stains is most likely Serratia marcescens, a bacteria which is found naturally in soil, food, and in animals. Serratia, which produce a characteristic red pigment, thrive on moisture, dust, and phosphates and need almost nothing to survive.

Is Serratia marcescens harmful to humans?

In rare cases, Serratia marcescens can be deadly.

Along with other bacteria, Serratia marcescens is a source of hospital-acquired infections, which can happen if a patient's immune system is severely compromised or if the bacterium enters the body with a catheter, respirator or other medical device.

How do you remove Serratia marcescens from water?

To clean pet water dishes, bathrooms, and kitchen surfaces

Disinfect the surfaces where the slime has formed with a strong chlorine bleach solution. Leave the disinfectant solution on the affected surface(s) for 10 – 20 minutes before thoroughly rinsing away with clean water.

Why does my water turn my shower pink?

The “pink mold” you may find in your shower actually isn't mold, but a very common strain of airborne bacteria that's found throughout the world. The bacteria, Serratia marcescens, cause that pink or even red slime you might find in your shower, toilet bowl, or around other water fixtures.

What does Serratia marcescens do to you?

S. marcescens bacteria is known to cause a variety of different types of human infections, including: urinary tract infections (UTIs), respiratory tract infections, conjunctivitis, tear duct infections, and keratitis. Although extremely rare, it can also cause pneumonia and meningitis.

Residue from Water Explained

What is pink biofilm?

Pink stains appearing on toilets, showers, and other damp areas are often caused by a pink biofilm. Biofilm is made up of many different bacteria and is known to adhere to and spread easily on wet surfaces. Although pink biofilm is found in wet environments, the bacteria are airborne, not waterborne.

Is the pink stuff toxic to humans?

Created from a non-toxic formula, the Pink Stuff is safe to use around your family and pets.

Is Serratia marcescens pink mold?

That nasty substance is called Serratia marcescens, a microorganism commonly referred to as pink mold. Even though it's been labeled a “mold,” this substance is actually a bacteria, not a fungus. These little guys thrive in warm, wet environments and feed off fatty substances (like soap residue for instance).

Can pink mold make you sick?

Beware of the following pink mold symptoms and illnesses:

Allergic reactions like coughing, sneezing, eye irritations and skin rash. Pneumonia and bronchitis due to prolonged lung inflammation. Bladder infections and urinary tract infections (UTI) Respiratory tract infection.

How do you get rid of pink bacteria in the shower?

Create a cleaning paste with 1/4 cup of baking soda and 1 tablespoon of liquid dish soap. Using a soft bristle brush, apply paste to the bacteria and scrub away the pink film. Rinse. Once the pink is gone, you'll need to disinfect the area.

Can Serratia marcescens be cured?

Abstract. An old man receiving peritoneal dialysis was diagnosed with Serratia marcescens peritonitis, a rare case with poor prognosis. Powerful antibiotics based on culture results and enough duration cured the case successfully despite its high virulence.

What chemicals are in The Pink Stuff?

Pink Stuff's primary ingredients are baking soda, quartz, sodium silicate, and soap, which explains its abrasive grease-dissolving cleaning power. However, that powerful abrasive quality also means that one should spot test on more delicate polished surfaces and painted walls.

What happens if you consume The Pink Stuff?

Inhalation The product is considered to be a low hazard under normal conditions of use. Ingestion The product is considered to be a low hazard under normal conditions of use. May be harmful if swallowed. Skin contact Prolonged skin contact may cause temporary irritation.

What is The Pink Stuff?

The Pink Stuff Miracle Cream cleaner is a mild abrasive cream cleaner for hard surfaces. This versatile liquid cream cleaner is made from natural particles to provide consistent cleaning power. It cuts through grease and tough stains with minimum effort.

What kind of bacteria is pink?

About the Bacteria

Many experts agree that the bacteria that causes these pink stains is most likely Serratia marcescens, a bacteria which is found naturally in soil, food, and in animals. Serratia, which produce a characteristic red pigment, thrive on moisture, dust, and phosphates and need almost nothing to survive.

Why is biofilm pink?

What is that pink residue in a bathroom? This staining is actually a bacterial biofilm –caused by Serratia Marcescens. Unlike other bacterias which are virtually invisible to the naked eye, this airborne bacteria has the ability to produce a red pigment making it easy to identify when it begins to build up.

What is the pink slime in my sink?

Pink slime, the residue stain commonly found in your sink, is caused by an airborne bacterium known as Serratia Marcescens. A common misconception about the bacterium is that it is believed to be caused by mold, but that is not the case. The bacterium can be found worldwide as it grows in an environment with moisture.

Is The Pink Stuff natural?

The Pink Stuff is also endorsed by Naturewatch Foundation, who are committed to the advancement of animal welfare. On the packaging it states that it's: Made of 99% natural ingredients. Environmentally non-toxic.

Can you use The Pink Stuff on taps?

The Pink Stuff can remove limescale from taps, kettles and showerheads. Just give the surfaces a good scrub, and the cleaner should remove all stains. Don't forget to rinse thoroughly after cleaning.

What does The Pink Stuff smell like?

The first thing I noticed when I tried it out: It feels way more like a goo than a paste (I'm not complaining). My second observation: It smells like perfume. It's not too strong, but there's definitely a light, floral scent.

Is The Pink Stuff good for the environment?

The Pink Stuff did a nearly flawless job of removing soil from ceramic and painted metal, clearing away 99% of the grime, and it removed 95% of dirt from plastic surfaces.

Is The Pink Stuff corrosive?

Pink Stuff contains Ammonium Bifluoride. Corrosive. Causes severe burns which may not be immediately painful or visible. Avoid contact with eyes, skin or clothing.

How do I get pink off my hands?

What happens if Serratia marcescens is left untreated?

marcescens has been shown to cause a wide range of infectious diseases, including urinary, respiratory, and biliary tract infections, peritonitis, wound infections, and intravenous catheter-related infections, which can also lead to life-threatening bacteremia.

Can Serratia cause UTI?

The Serratia species are occasionally recognized as a cause of hospital acquired infections such as urinary tract infections, respiratory tract infections and wound infections.