How to Clean Mouldy Silicone?

What is Mould Growth?

Well, it's a type of fungus that just loves damp, dark, and humid places. It spreads by sending out tiny spores into the air, which then land on surfaces like your bathroom or kitchen silicone.

Once it sets in, it can spread super fast. Not only does it look pretty gross, but it can even mess with your indoor air quality. Knowing what mould actually is helps a lot when you're trying to get rid of it on your silicone. Call us whenever you need a reliable, professional resealing service.

Can Mould Grow on Silicone?

Yes.
Even though silicone is waterproof, mould can still show up on it. Being waterproof doesn’t stop mould spores from landing on the surface and growing if the conditions are right.

The mould doesn’t actually get inside the silicone. It just grows on the surface. But if the seal starts to break down, it can spread underneath. That’s why you’ll often see those black spots forming along the edges where the silicone meets tiles or bathroom fixtures.

Why Does Silicone Turn Mouldy?

Dealing with mouldy silicone showers? Let’s talk about what causes it and how to avoid it.

Step 1 - Check the Shower Head and Hose

Bathrooms and kitchens are prime spots for mould thanks to all the humidity from hot water. When steam settles on silicone and doesn’t get wiped away, it’s like rolling out the red carpet for mould spores. Poor ventilation makes it even worse by trapping all that moisture, keeping surfaces damp and perfect for mould to grow.

Damaged Silicone

Old or cracked silicone is a big culprit. Once it starts breaking down, it can’t keep water out anymore. Water sneaks behind the sealant, creating hidden damp spots where mould can grow unnoticed. Replacing damaged silicone as soon as you spot it can save you a lot of headaches later.

Discover expert tips in our blog: Time to Reseal Your Shower in London.

Skipping Cleaning

Silicone can collect soap scum, body oils, and all sorts of gunk over time. Unfortunately, this stuff is like a buffet for mould, making it grow faster. If you don’t clean regularly, the build-up gets harder to deal with, and mould becomes a bigger problem. A quick clean now and then can keep your silicone looking fresh and mould-free.

Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be one step closer to staying ahead of removing mouldy silicone!

Is Black Mould on Silicone Dangerous?

Yes, black mould on silicone can be a real health risk, especially for people who are more vulnerable.

Kids, the elderly, and anyone with a weaker immune system are at an even higher risk. And it’s not just about health. If you leave mould untreated, it can quickly spread to walls, ceilings, and other areas of your home. Mouldy silicone is definitely something you want to deal with sooner rather than later!

How to Remove Mouldy Silicone? Step-by-Step Methods

Removing mouldy silicone can be done in a few ways.

Method 1: Using Commercial Mould Removers

• Start by opening some windows or switching on an extractor fan to keep the space well-ventilated.
• Grab a mould remover like HG Mould Remover and spray it directly onto the mouldy silicone or mouldy mastic.
• Let it sit for about 30 minutes (or follow the instructions on the label).
• Rinse the silicone thoroughly with clean water to wash away the product and any loosened mould.
• Finally, dry the silicone completely with a clean cloth to keep moisture and future mould away.

Method 2: Natural Cleaning Solutions

• Mix up a simple paste using white vinegar and baking soda. It’s perfect for tackling stubborn mould.
• Slather the paste generously over the mouldy sealant or mouldy mastic, making sure to cover every spot.
• Let it sit overnight so it can really work its magic on those tough stains.
• Grab an old toothbrush and gently scrub the sealant in circular motions to lift away the mould.
• Rinse everything off with water and dry the area completely to keep mould from coming back.

Method 3: Using Bleach

• Grab some rubber gloves and safety glasses. Make sure the space is well-ventilated, and keep kids and pets out of the way. Test the bleach on a small, hidden spot to be safe.
• Take some toilet tissue, soak it in undiluted bleach, and press it firmly onto the mouldy areas of the sealant.
• Let it sit for 12-24 hours so the bleach can do its thing and break down the mould.
• Once the time’s up, carefully remove the tissue and give the area a good rinse with water to wash away any leftover bleach.
• Finally, use a clean towel to dry the sealant completely, as this helps keep the mould from coming back.

How to Replace Mouldy Silicone in the Shower?

Replacing mouldy silicone in your shower is easier than you might think!

• All you need are the right tools. Start by carefully peeling off the old silicone with a knife or silicone removal tool.
• Next, give the area a good clean with some white spirit to get rid of any leftover residue, mould, or soap scum. Let it dry completely, as you don’t want to trap moisture under the new sealant.
• Grab your silicone tube, pop it into a caulking gun, and cut the nozzle.
• Then, run a nice, smooth bead of sealant along the joint. Use a smoothing tool or just your wet finger to tidy it up for that polished, professional look.
• Let it cure for 24-48 hours before getting it wet again.

How Long Does a Silicone Sealant Last?

How long silicone sealant lasts really depends on a few things.

Well, what affects how long your bathroom lasts?

• How well it was installed in the first place
• How often is it used
• Your cleaning and maintenance habits
• The quality of ventilation
• Exposure to hard water or harsh chemicals
• Changes in temperature

Regularly checking for any wear and tear can help you catch problems early and tackle small fixes before they turn into big headaches like mouldy silicone in the shower.

How to Maintain Silicone to Prevent Future Mould?

A little regular maintenance goes a long way in keeping your bathroom fresh and your sealant lasting longer.

Keep It Clean

After your shower, take a moment to wipe down the silicone seals and use a squeegee to get rid of excess water. Make sure the bathroom is well-ventilated, too. Once a week, give the seals a good wipe with a mild detergent, especially in the corners. Rinse and dry thoroughly.

Let It Breathe

Good ventilation is your best friend when it comes to stopping mould, especially in a damp, humid city like London. Use an extractor fan during your shower and for at least 30 minutes afterwards. Crack open a window if you can, or consider upgrading to a humidity-sensing fan for even better results.

Invest in Quality

Not all silicone is created equal. Look for high-quality, mould-resistant sealants that include anti-fungal additives. Yes, they’re a bit more expensive upfront, but they’ll save you time, hassle, and money in the long run by lasting longer and requiring less maintenance.

Stay on Top of Issues

Make it a habit to check your silicone seals regularly. Keep an eye out for discolouration, black spots, cracks, or any gaps. If you notice the seal pulling away or see signs of water damage, don’t wait; fix it right away. Catching small problems early will save you from dealing with bigger ones down the road.

With just a bit of effort, you can keep your bathroom looking great by removing mouldy silicone!

When to Call for Professional Help?

Here are a few situations to consider:

• Dealing with stubborn mould: If mould is taking over, professionals can remove it properly and stop it from coming back.
• Structural issues popping up: Got water damage or plumbing problems? Pros can diagnose and fix them before they turn into expensive repairs.
• Frustrated by recurring problems: If mould keeps showing up, experts can find the root cause and resolve it for good.
• Health concerns in the mix: Vulnerable people in your household? Professionals can safely handle mould removal to reduce health risks.
• No time to spare: Life’s busy, so let the pros handle mould removal efficiently and stress-free.
• Tricky installations: For unique or complex areas, professionals bring the right tools and expertise to get the job done perfectly.

Sometimes, it’s just easier and smarter to leave replacing mouldy silicone in the shower to the experts!

Learn more by reading our blog on the correct way to reseal a bath.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a silicone mould last?

Mould on silicone can stick around forever if it’s not cleaned or treated properly. Silicone creates a surface where mould can thrive if the conditions are right.

How to fix mouldy silicone?

Try cleaning it with vinegar or a mix of bleach and water. Use an old toothbrush to gently scrub it away. If the mould won’t budge, it might be time to remove and replace the silicone for a fresh start.

Can you get mould out of silicone?

Yes, you can get mould out of silicone! Just use a bleach-water solution or white vinegar. Apply it to the mouldy spots, let it sit for 10-15 minutes, scrub it with a brush, and rinse well. Easy peasy.

What causes silicone to mould?

Mould loves silicone when it’s damp, dirty, or in poorly ventilated spaces. That’s why bathrooms and kitchens are prime spots for mould growth. Keeping silicone clean and dry can help stop mould in its tracks.