Ask Mrs. Clean: House Cleaning, Stain Removal and Organizing Tips

[TrishtheDish]

Hello -

I rent an apt in Santa Monica CA and there is basic linoleum in both the kitchen and bath. I've been here over 5 yrs and over the years a reddish-pink stain has developed in both bath and kitchen, specifically where I stand (I always go barefoot at home). I have a bath mat that I use after my shower and my feet are pretty dry once I step onto the flooring but the stain in the bathroom is particularly bad. The kitchen one is lighter and right in front of the sink. I was told it might be some kind of fungus (gross!) from my pH reacting with the water here (live a mile from the ocean). I lived in an apt in Seattle for 10+ years and also went barefoot and NEVER had this problem in kitchen or bath - so I do think it's some kind of reaction.

I've tried leaving straight bleach, CLR (not together) and Magic Eraser and it won't budge. I'm thinking about moving next year and I'm beginning to worry that I'll be charged for these stains as they will definitely have to replace the linoleum in the bath, and possibly the kitchen. I don't feel it's my fault per se, and I try to wear flip flops now but it's a little late for that.

Anyone had this before? Any tips on what exactly it is and how to clean??

[mrscleannw]

Hello TrishtheDish and Welcome to Mrs. Clean’s Forum.
I read your issue on a reddish pink stain on your basic linoleum floor and have the following tip:
First, you will want to make sure that your floor is basic linoleum and not laminate. There may be a difference as to how it would be treated. Here is a page that will give you info on the difference between linoleum and laminate.


From your description, it sounds like it is most likely a fungus, perhaps tracked in from the bath to the kitchen. Here's how to remove mold and fungus.


It does sound as if you have tried most of the recommendations. To remove mold and fungus you need light and low humidity (low moisture). You could try vinegar as directed on the web address, open windows and be sure to let the light in.
Other information that I came upon was that there is also the possibility that water or moisture is trapped under those places in your linoleum. It could have happened prior to your moving in and they may have just caulked around the tub and sink base locking in the moisture. There is just no way to know for sure without ripping up the areas and checking. So, try the vinegar, air and light and with any luck, it may resolve the issue.