Now, we’re not talking anything cataclysmic here! But the steam and fog from a hot shower can create any number of problems, ranging from a dirty mirror to a scummy shower curtain to mold and mildew on the walls or ceiling.

Fortunately, depending on your bathroom and budget, there are all sorts of easy ways to curb steamy bathroom mishaps before they happen. With our thanks to the writers at SFGate, here’s how to cut down on a little steam before it becomes a big problem...

1.) Use Ventilation

Does your bathroom come with a fan? It’s time to start running it (or bring in a pro to install a new one) to stop steam before it starts. Running a fan will help steam dissipate during your hot shower, preventing moisture from settling onto your towels, bathmats, and tile.

If your bathroom is not equipped with an in-unit fan, use a regular window or box fan to help clear away whatever steam you can; to provide another way to help steam escape, consider cracking a window or leaving the bathroom door ajar during your showers.

2.) Toy With Temperature

Steam forms when the hot air and water from your shower meets cooler air in the bathroom. To prevent this reaction, try raising the temperature in your bathroom before showering. About 30 minutes before you’re going to hop in the shower, set your thermostat to at least 70 degrees; this will cut down on the steam created outside of your shower stall.

3.) Play It Cool

Here’s an out-of-the-box idea for using your bathtub to cut back on steamy showers: Before showering, fill up your tub basin with about one inch of cold water, then adjust the temperature and let the tub drain as you start your shower. This cold water will help cut back on the steam emitted from the warm shower water.

4.) Invest in a Dehumidifier

Dehumidifiers work to remove excess moisture and humidity in the air, making them a perfect addition to a particularly steamy bathroom. When you shower or run a bath, turn on your dehumidifier, which will trap moisture in the air by way of a fan and cooling coils. Remember to read up on your particular unit to know when to empty the dehumidifier’s water reservoir.

And remember to not let your hot showers waste water! Read more about how to conserve water with low-flow shower heads or other easy, DIY green hacks. 

Do you have any other hacks for cutting back on steam? Ready to have a qualified pro take a look at your plumbing system or give you a quote? We’d love to hear from you! Drop Combat Plumbing a line for all of your plumbing or HVAC needs; day or night, our experienced team is here and more than ready to help!