How to remove mould from silicone sealant and stop it coming back

Clean black mould and mildew out of silicone seals around sinks, showers and windows using vinegar, baking soda and paper towel wraps. Then cut the moisture that feeds it with a simple anti-condensation spray and better airflow. Suits anyone with a tired bathroom or damp window and needs only cheap household supplies.

No More MOLD on Your Grout! This $0 Trick Keeps Silicone SPOTLESS, by Clever Hacks on YouTube. 8 min 17 s.

7 chapters. Tap a step to jump to it.Chapters from the creator
Video length
8 min 17 s
Time to do it
45 minutes
Difficulty
Easy
Steps
9

What you need

Steps

  1. Wipe the silicone seal with a damp cloth and an old toothbrush to lift loose dirt and surface mildew. Dry it so the cleaning mixture can reach the mould.

  2. Mix baking soda with a little water into a paste. Spread it over the mouldy silicone and leave it for 10 to 15 minutes, then scrub with the toothbrush.

  3. For stubborn black spots, soak paper towel in white vinegar, press it onto the seal and leave it for about an hour. Remove it and rinse clean.

  4. Make a stronger spray with one part 3% hydrogen peroxide to two parts water in a spray bottle. Mist the stained silicone, wait 10 minutes and wipe.

  5. Run a butter knife wrapped in cloth along the edge of the seal to scrape out trapped grime, then rinse and dry the area fully.

  6. Deep clean the grout with a baking soda paste and a toothbrush. Cover it with cling wrap for 30 minutes to keep the paste wet, then scrub and rinse.

  7. Fill a spray bottle with water and a few drops of dish soap or tea tree oil. Spray window glass and frames when condensation forms, then wipe dry.

  8. Open a window or run the extractor fan for 10 to 15 minutes after showers and cooking. Move furniture away from vents so air can flow.

  9. Check the ventilation grille by holding a tissue against it while the fan runs. If it does not stick, clean the grille with a cloth and vinegar without taking it off the wall.

Tips and common mistakes

Never mix ammonia with bleach or hydrogen peroxide, and open a window while using it.

Silicone that is cracked or mouldy all the way through cannot be cleaned, so cut it out and reseal.

Dry the shower walls with a squeegee after each use to slow mould growth.

Test any spray on a hidden patch first, since vinegar and peroxide can dull some surfaces.

Questions

Does vinegar really kill mould on silicone?

Vinegar slows mould and lifts surface stains, but it will not reach mould growing under the silicone. If black spots return quickly, replace the seal.

How often should I clean the seals?

Once a week for the shower and once a month for sinks and windows is enough to keep mould in check. Wipe them dry after use.

Can I use bleach instead?

Bleach works on surface stains but is harsh on silicone and dangerous to mix with ammonia or vinegar. Stick to one product at a time and ventilate the room.

This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.

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