How do I remove mould from the silicone in a shower cubicle?

When you hear about mould on walls, you probably imagine an old house or a damp cellar. The truth is, however, that mould can also appear in brand-new, modern flats, especially if your bathroom has leaky sanitary fittings or there is a problem with ventilation. The good news is that if you act early enough, you can get rid of mould at home without causing permanent damage to fixtures or tiles. In this article we’ve gathered a few tried-and-tested tips on combating mould indoors.

What is black mould and why does it develop?

Mould is a type of fungus that thrives in warm, humid conditions. In homes it most often appears in rooms such as the bathroom, kitchen or laundry room, when airflow is very low due to poor ventilation. The development of black mould on bathroom walls and ceilings usually begins with the build-up of steam after hot showers or baths. Drying clothes in the bathroom encourages its formation, both on a clothesline and when using a tumble dryer—the appliance heats the surroundings while running. Other causes of microbial growth can include leaky pipes, poor insulation or heavy use of humidifiers.

Is mould harmful to health?

Health risks associated with mould include allergic reactions such as sneezing, a runny nose, red eyes and a skin rash. Touching mould is particularly dangerous as it brings you into contact with its spores. Children, older people, and those with skin problems and respiratory diseases are most at risk from the side effects of exposure. What’s more, people with allergies who experience inflammatory symptoms when exposed to mould are at greater risk of developing asthma. According to the WHO, most cases of this disease in young children result from exposure to mould.

How to find and identify mould in the bathroom?

Depending on the scale and location of the mould, you may be able to remove it yourself. Before you start planning to remove mould from your home, identify its source. Typical areas where mould forms include walls, the ceiling, bathroom tiles, grout, basins, baths, drains, and hidden spots around pipes. Make sure you are dealing with mould, not a simple build-up of grime. In a bathroom with mould, there is a characteristic musty smell of damp, even when the room seems completely dry. Its presence is also confirmed by its distinctive appearance—a dark, muddy deposit, sometimes glistening with moisture. Also look out for signs such as crumbling plaster, discoloured walls, cracked paint, damaged tiles or surfaces that feel softer than normal. These may indicate a leak or water ingress in the bathroom, which usually leads to the growth and spread of mould.

Mould in the shower? How to remove it using chemical cleaners

You can treat mould on silicone with bleach. The chlorine it contains is an effective mould remover. Remember that while cleaning tiles with it, you must keep the bathroom well ventilated and protect your eyes and airways. Moreover, bleach must never be used together with other cleaning products, such as washing-up liquid or descaler. Chlorine reacts with many substances and can be very dangerous to health. Another highly effective method for mould is cleaning with ammonia, which also works for removing soap scum and grease. For safety reasons, you can buy a ready-made mould-removal product containing ammonia instead of the pure substance. If the situation in your bathroom has got out of hand, it’s best to call in professionals. Many cleaning and refurbishment companies specialise in mould removal. In extreme cases, a full refurbishment of the entire room and the purchase of new fittings may also be necessary.

How to remove mould from the bathroom using home remedies?

How do you remove black mould from silicone using what you have at home? First, try a water and vinegar solution (2:1). Apply the mixture to the tiles with a spray bottle. Rinse it off after 15 minutes. If scrubbing is necessary, it’s worth using a toothbrush or another stiff-bristled brush. Another method is to use hydrogen peroxide. You can also tackle small mould deposits with a solution of water and bicarbonate of soda. Tea tree oil can also be helpful, but bear in mind that its aroma lingers in the bathroom for longer. Home remedies for mould on silicone are not effective against extensive mould growth. However, they work brilliantly for preventative cleaning. Now that you know how to remove mould from silicone and where to look for the sources of its formation, remember to keep a constant eye on hard-to-reach places in your bathroom and not to delay taking action if mould appears.