Opened up our park model for the season and found these weird bright pink streaks running down the shower surround. They won't wipe off easily. Any idea what is this thing?

As the winter chill gives way to the warmth of spring, many park model owners eagerly anticipate opening up their seasonal homes. However, upon entering, some are surprised to find unexpected changes that took place over the winter months. One such anomaly that can be quite startling is the appearance of bright pink streaks running down the shower surround.

These streaks can be a cause for concern, especially when they don't wipe off easily. It can lead to a flurry of questions: What caused this? Is it harmful? How can it be removed? Understanding the cause of these streaks is crucial for effectively addressing them and preventing future occurrences.

The bright pink streaks found on your shower surround are most likely the result of RV and park model antifreeze. This type of antifreeze is typically used to winterize plumbing systems, preventing pipes from freezing during the cold months. It is often a bright pink color, which makes it easily identifiable and helps users ensure that the liquid has reached all necessary parts of the plumbing system.

The pink coloration is due to the dye added to the antifreeze, which is primarily made of propylene glycol or ethylene glycol. These dyes are water-soluble, which means they can easily stain surfaces like shower surrounds made of plastic or fiberglass, especially if left in contact for an extended period.

RV and park model antifreeze is an essential component of winterizing your seasonal home, but it can also be the culprit behind those unsightly pink streaks. When the antifreeze is flushed into the plumbing system, it may splatter or spill onto nearby surfaces, including the shower surround. If not cleaned immediately, these surfaces can absorb the dye, leading to stains.

The material of the shower surround plays a significant role in how easily it can be stained. Porous materials, such as fiberglass, are more susceptible to absorbing the dye compared to less porous surfaces. The longer the antifreeze is in contact with the surface, the deeper the stain can penetrate, making it more challenging to remove.

While the bright pink color of antifreeze stains is distinctive, it's essential to differentiate them from other common issues like mold, mildew, or bacteria. Mold and mildew typically appear as dark spots or patches rather than streaks and are often accompanied by a musty odor. Additionally, mold and mildew thrive in damp environments, so their presence is usually associated with moisture issues.

Bacterial growth, such as the pinkish hue caused by Serratia marcescens, a common bathroom bacterium, tends to appear in areas with soap scum or standing water. Unlike antifreeze stains, bacterial growth can often be felt as a slimy film on the surface. Proper identification is crucial for using the right cleaning method.

The appearance of the pink streaks after winter storage and not immediately can be attributed to the time it takes for the antifreeze to dry and the dye to set into the surface. During the winter, when the park model is closed up, the antifreeze can slowly evaporate, leaving behind the concentrated dye.

Additionally, the lack of ventilation and cleaning during the winter months allows the dye to settle into the surface. It's only upon reopening the park model in the spring that these stains become apparent, as they contrast starkly against the cleaned surfaces of the shower surround.

To tackle the pink streaks on your shower surround, start with simple and safe cleaning methods. A mixture of water and vinegar can be effective for light stains. Create a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water, then apply it to the stained area using a soft cloth or sponge. Let it sit for a few minutes before gently scrubbing in a circular motion.

Baking soda is another gentle cleaner, especially for more stubborn stains. Make a paste by mixing baking soda with water, apply it to the stains, and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Use a non-abrasive sponge or cloth to scrub the area, then rinse thoroughly. These methods are safe for most shower surrounds and can effectively remove or lighten the stains.

If simple cleaners don't do the trick, you may need to resort to stronger products. Oxygen-based cleaners, such as OxiClean, can be effective in breaking down the dye molecules. Mix the cleaner with water according to the package instructions, apply it to the stained area, and let it sit for 30 minutes before scrubbing gently.

For more stubborn stains, a diluted bleach solution can be used, but exercise caution. Mix one part bleach with ten parts water, apply it to the stain, and let it sit for no more than 10 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and ensure proper ventilation. Always test any cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn't damage the surface.

Avoid using harsh or abrasive cleaners, such as scouring pads, steel wool, or undiluted bleach, as these can damage the surface of your shower surround. Some chemical cleaners can also react negatively with the materials, causing discoloration or dulling the finish.

Acidic cleaners, such as those containing hydrochloric or sulfuric acid, should be avoided as they can etch or corrode the surface. Always check the label of cleaning products to ensure they are safe for use on the specific material of your shower surround.

Preventing pink streaks in the future starts with proper winterizing techniques. When adding antifreeze to your plumbing system, take care to avoid spills by using a funnel and working slowly. Wipe up any spills immediately with a damp cloth to prevent staining.

Consider using antifreeze products that are advertised as being less likely to stain. Some manufacturers offer formulations with less or no dye. Additionally, after winterizing, consider covering exposed surfaces with a protective layer, such as a shower curtain or plastic sheeting, to minimize contact between the antifreeze and the shower surround.

In some cases, the staining may be too deep to remove completely, especially if it has been left for an extended period. If repeated cleaning efforts fail, cosmetic solutions might be your only option. Consider using a shower surround refinishing kit, which can cover the existing surface with a fresh, clean layer.

These kits typically contain a bonding agent and a topcoat that can restore the appearance of your shower surround. While this is a more involved process, it can effectively hide the stains and give your shower a like-new appearance. Ensure that the refinishing products are compatible with your shower's material.

If the staining is extensive or if you're uncomfortable handling the refinishing process yourself, it may be time to call in a professional. A professional refinisher can assess the damage and provide a more durable and aesthetically pleasing solution.

In cases where the shower surround is old or has sustained significant damage, replacement might be the best option. This can be a more costly endeavor, but it ensures a long-lasting and high-quality finish. Consult with a professional to explore your options and choose the best course of action for your park model.

While the shower surround is a common place for antifreeze stains to appear, other areas may also be affected. Look out for pink streaks or spots near sinks, toilets, and any other plumbing fixtures that may have come into contact with antifreeze.

The kitchen sink and surrounding countertops can also be stained if antifreeze was used in the kitchen plumbing. Regular inspections and cleaning of these areas can help identify and address stains before they become more challenging to remove. Ensuring that antifreeze is flushed out of the system thoroughly at the start of the season can also prevent potential staining.