Silicone sealant mould gets ‘eradicated completely’ in 10 minutes with natural solution

Black mould often grows in bathrooms but while tiles are easy to clean, black mould on a silicone sealant can be particularly stubborn and difficult to remove. Fortunately, there is an effective way to remove this black mould without having to resort to harsh chemicals such as bleach, according to one expert when speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk.

By Angela Patrone, Senior Lifestyle Reporter

The Home Depot reveals simple ways to remove mould

Silicone sealants are typically used to bind two surfaces, such as plastic, metal and glass, together. 

It is often used in , particularly around the shower, bath and sinks to prevent water from reaching the fixtures. 

Once dry, the rubbery consistency and constant exposure to moisture make it the perfect breeding ground for black

Over time, the build-up of this mould on the white sealant can become difficult to remove and leave stains.

To clean bathroom silicone sealants covered by mould with “minimal effort”, Cristina Solis, a sustainability consultant at Green Hive who assisted her readers in replacing conventional products with affordable, non-toxic options they already have at home, has shared a few steps that use as a “natural and effective cleaning agent”.

Dirty joints between the tiles, cleaning agent and hands in black gloves in the bathroom. Toxic black mold in the corner of the bathroom before cleani

The process begins by preparing a vinegar solution in a spray bottle (Image: Getty)

For this cleaning hack, households will need white vinegar, water, a spray bottle, and an old toothbrush.

The process begins by preparing a vinegar solution in a spray bottle and mixing equal parts of white vinegar and water. 

Generously apply this solution onto the mould-covered sealant, ensuring a thorough coating. 

Next, allow the vinegar solution to sit on the mould for about 10 minutes. Cristina explained: “During this time, it breaks down the mould and mildew, making the removal process easier.”

How to use white vinegar for cleaning

How to use white vinegar for cleaning (Image: EXPRESS)

Once the wait is over, gently scrub the area of mould using an old toothbrush. 

The expert said: “The bristles of the toothbrush will help remove the mould without damaging the sealant.”

After, rinse the sealant thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining vinegar residue and loosened mould. 

Depending on the severity of the mould, households should find that this meth has “eradicated all traces of mould completely”. If not, they may need to repeat this process a few times.

Alternatively, Cristina has also recommended another option - one that uses instead of white vinegar.

She claimed: “Baking soda, a natural cleaning agent, can effectively kill mould and neutralise its odour.” 

To do this, mix a solution of one-quarter tablespoon of baking soda per cup of water and apply it with a spray bottle to ensure even coverage. 

Scrub the mouldy area thoroughly, then rinse with water to avoid any powdery residue. Finally, dry the surface completely to “prevent future mould growth”.

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