Using a silicone sealant around sinks, bathtubs, and windows is an effective way to protect joints and ensure your furnishings last a long time. But since silicone sealant, also known as caulk, is usually applied on damp, wet areas, this invites the growth of black mould.
To remove black mould from silicone sealant make a paste out of baking soda and white vinegar, and scrub it into the black mouldy areas. Rinse it off with a cold, wet cloth, then dry it with a clean cloth. Spray a solution of bleach and water to kill any remaining spores.
That’s a simple, straightforward and natural way to remove black mould from silicone sealant. But there are also other ways you can remove it; better yet, you can also learn how to prevent black mould from forming in the first place. Read on to learn how.
Table of Contents
How can I remove black mould from silicone sealant?
The baking soda and white vinegar solution is a tried-and-tested, all-natural way to remove black mold with ordinary household items you probably already have at home. However, there are other effective strategies that you can employ:
Borax: Make a cleaning solution mixing a cup of borax with 3L of hot water. Use a brush to scrub the solution onto the black mould, then wipe away with a cold, damp microfiber cloth.
Bleach: Known as one of the most powerful agents in addressing mould, bleach will do the job.
To use bleach, first clean the surface with hot, soapy water then pour bleach diluted in water, following a ratio of ¼ cup bleach for every gallon of water. Next, place some cotton wool right on top, which helps make sure that the bleach stays in place. Let it sit for at least 3 hours, then remove the wool and wash it off with water.
Another method using bleach involves mixing it with baking soda until it forms a soft paste. Use a rough bristled brush to apply it directly onto the mouldy area. Next, cover the area with plastic wrap for 15 minutes. Once done, remove the wrap and your silicone sealant will be sparking clean. Rinse off any remaining solution with water and a light scrub.
Protective equipment including goggles, a respirator or face mask, and rubber gloves are important during the application of bleach since it emits harmful, strong fumes. This process involving bleach may also be added after an attempt using baking soda and vinegar, or borax and water. If you discover that the mould is tougher than expected, the extra step involving bleach will do the job in removing stubborn mould.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I avoid black mould in the first place?
Mould loves warm, damp places. While you can remove it using the steps we’ve mentioned, it’s ideal to prevent them from happening in the first place.
Keep your bathroom well-ventilated and dry. Regularly clean sinks, bathtubs, shower tiles, and other areas prone to mold with vinegar, which is the most natural and powerful cleaning agent. Other alternatives include hydrogen peroxide or baking soda.
Here are other helpful ways to avoid mould:
Just remember that if you choose to use bleach for cleaning and preventing mould, never mix it with ammonia or other kinds of household cleaners. Doing so will result in extremely dangerous fumes. If you have a serious amount of mould and are worried about cleaning it up on its own, it’s best to let the professionals handle it.
What causes black mould to form on silicone?
Dampness is the main cause of black mould on silicone. Mold spores travel through the air, and they can stay alive even in extreme conditions. Mold will grow much faster in areas of high humidity, heat, moisture, low light, and oxygen.
Black mould tends to grow on shower caulk because this area is vulnerable to accumulating soap scum and water; these are the cellulose that mould love to feed on. If left untreated, black mould will germinate especially in warm, dark bathrooms. Other causes of extreme mold growth are lack of maintenance, wet clothes, humidifiers, leaks, and condensation.
Be cautious to prevent inhaling the spores while cleaning it because exposure to mold is dangerous for your health. Some people are more sensitive to the harmful effects of mold than others; it can lead to wheezing, a stuffy nose, respiratory problems, and itching in the eyes or skin. Individuals with asthma or allergies to molds will experience more severe reactions such as shortness of breath and fever.
Studies have also shown that children who are exposed to mold at an early age are more prone to developing asthma. Aside from children, even healthy people are at risk for acquiring health problems because of mold exposure. Other high-risk groups include those who have lung diseases and chronic respiratory disease, as well as seniors.
Removing mold from silicone and the rest of your bathroom is a simple yet effective way to protect your health from the dangerous effects of mold.
What is the best anti-mould silicone sealant?
There are many anti-mould silicone sealants on the market. Here are some examples available on Amazon that have great reviews:Â