Some interesting things can be found on a bathroom wall. Numbers are written to “call for a good time.” Sometimes one can find an inspirational or uplifting quote, art, and murals. Alternately, there’s an undesirable or repulsive yellow substance that drips from time to time. However, few people know what that substance is, or how to get rid of it.

Posting an Unappealing Bathroom Wall

It’s common to move into a new place and notice small things that need tending to like little places needing a paint touch-up or drawers that could use some WD-40. However, something much more serious also lies in waiting to be discovered. One woman turned to Reddit for advice after she moved into a new place and discovered yellow drips coming down the bathroom wall. Interestingly, there are several reasons for this strange and unappealing phenomenon.

“Recently moved in here and keep noticing these yellow marks dripping down the walls. It also sticks my organizers to my bathroom sinks and leaves marks. Does anybody know what this is?” She questioned. “This bathroom in general was pretty gross when I moved in I’ve tried to clean but the paint is coming off in a lot of parts of it too. Any tips would be amazing!”

Read More: Should You Open Or Close The Bathroom Door When Not In Use?

Redditors Comment on the Bathroom Wall

One person explained: “That’s called surfactant leaching. Usually happens in spots with more moisture, such as bathrooms. It wipes off pretty easily.” 

Meanwhile, another shared: “It will stop with time, sometimes days, sometimes months, but it will stop. Persevere and just keep wiping it off (no chemicals needed, just wipe while humid).” 

Lastly, a person suggested using a mixture of ammonia and water to get rid of the unwanted drips on the bathroom walls. 

Expert Advice

Although Reddit offers a plethora of wisdom, it never hurts to get a second opinion from certified experts, like those at Merry Maids. According to the site, many possible explanations exist for the yellow drips on a bathroom wall. Here are some of the most common: 

• Nicotine Residue
• Soap Scum or Hard Water stains
• Mold or Mildew
• Oxidized Paint

Removal of yellow drips from a bathroom can be difficult. However, some methods have proven effective. 

Removing Nicotine From Bathroom Walls

People who don’t smoke may automatically discredit this but it’s worth considering, particularly if you’ve moved into a place that’s older or had previous tenants. Nicotine from former residents can seep through paint, increasing in likelihood in humid climates. To remove these unwanted stains add water and vinegar in a bowl and use a cloth or sponge to wash the bathroom wall. Some stains require a little more work and adding some baking soda may help.

Removing Soap Scum or Hard Water

Several powerful products exist at the store to help tackle things like soap scum and hard water. Alternatively, water and vinegar are more eco-friendly and provide comparable results. Regardless, regular use may be necessary to prevent build-up on the bathroom wall. 

Removing Mold or Mildew from a Bathroom Wall

The most common mold people think of is black or brown. But it can be pink or yellow too! Bleach is the most common solution for getting rid of mold or mildew. However, a vinegar and water mixture can be used. Either way, multiple applications may be necessary to tackle unwanted yellow drips on bathroom walls. 

Lastly, Oxidized Paint 

Unfortunately, those yellow stains on the bathroom wall will be harder to remove if they’re the result of oxidized paint as the bathroom walls will likely need to be repainted. Nonetheless, future stains can be prevented by using a stain-blocking primer before repainting. 

Preventing Unwanted Stains and Drips

Although it’s helpful to know about the yellow stains, it’s always better to take preventive measures to avoid any costly repairs or health concerns down the road. One sure way to prevent damage is to ensure the bathroom has proper ventilation and is clean and dry as often as possible. Additionally, a dehumidifier is recommended in areas with a lot of moisture. 

While removing unwanted yellow stains or drips from the bathroom walls may be challenging, some cleaning solutions are here to help. Moreover, some may take some perseverance and patience. However, it’ll be worth it when you can take pride in knowing the bathroom walls have your desired aesthetic rather than gross stains you can’t explain.