Serratia Marcescens

Have you ever noticed a pink or orange stain inside your toilet bowl or in your shower stall?

The discoloration is most likely an airborne bacteria called Serratia Marcescens. It is most frequently observed in toilet bowls, on surfaces in shower stalls, inside dishwashers, on tiles, in sinks and in pet water dishes. The bacteria will grow in any damp location where phosphorous-containing materials or fatty substances accumulate, and it can thrive in the presence of soap deposits. It is more commonly found during the warmer months of the year due to higher humidity levels.

Though Serratia will not survive in chlorinated drinking water, the bacteria can grow in toilets where water is left standing long enough for the chlorine to dissipate. To kill the bacteria, clean affected surfaces with a strong chlorine bleach solution.