When it comes to cleaning the bathroom, nothing dampens your spirits quite like discovering a patch of unsightly mold. And while I’ve tried all sorts of cleaning products and sprays to remove mold, scrubbing the silicone sealant around your bath or shower is an arduous task.
This rubber sealant around your tub and shower acts as a barrier against floor leaks; unfortunately, it becomes a breeding ground for stubborn mold that takes root deep within the surface.
While bleach might seem like a trusted go-to for spraying your sealant, it is actually one of the common mistakes we make when removing mold. Since bleach only tackles initial surface dirt, it cannot reach the mold spores that are ingrained deep within the silicone sealant.
However, experts recommend a natural kitchen item that can tackle mold on silicone sealant instantly. This is a great non-toxic alternative that can be used safely around the home and won’t break the bank — white vinegar.
White vinegar can tackle silicone mold
It seems like white vinegar is the ‘superpower’ essential to have in your cleaning caddy. This is thanks to its natural acidity, which has a fast-acting and effective way to dissolve mold spores without the need for harsh chemicals.
What’s more, it will take just minutes, saving you a significant amount of time and effort scrubbing manually. Unlike harsh, toxic cleaners like bleach, white vinegar is naturally mild and is still able to penetrate the silicone material without damaging it.
Besides making a great household cleaner and stubborn stain remover, white vinegar also makes a great yard cleaner. Find out why gardeners are being urged to pour white vinegar on their patio.
How to use white vinegar to remove mold on silicone sealant
First, spray a generous amount of white vinegar along the moldy sections of the silicone sealant. For best results, it’s recommended to leave overnight if possible to allow the acidity to soak into the spores.
Next, take a small bristle brush or even an old toothbrush to gently scrub away at the mold. This should have loosened overnight, making it easier to lift off and remove. Finally, rinse the silicone with warm water until clean, and dry it completely with a microfiber cloth.
For tougher stains, you can also combine white vinegar with baking soda to make a paste. The properties of both work together to remove stubborn stains and eliminate odor too. Win-win!
So before grabbing a bottle of bleach, try using white vinegar as your hidden weapon for banishing mold from silicone sealant.
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