Clean mould on silicone sealants so it doesn’t come back with 1 natural item expert loves
A UK sealant company has shared how a natural paste may help clean mould from sealants in just minutes.
Silicone sealant is a type of adhesive used to create a water- and airtight seal at the joint between two surfaces and is commonly found around showers, bathtubs and windows. When silicone becomes wet or damp and soap deposits accumulate, this encourages mould growth, which in turn causes the silicone to turn black. Mould can cause your silicone to function improperly or render it completely useless. This growth is unsightly, but more importantly, it's incredibly stubborn, making it seem virtually impossible to clean.
While there are numerous mould killer sprays available in supermarkets that can remove these stains quickly, they frequently contain bleach and may not always be the safest option to use. UK sealant company GT Sealants has shared how to make removing black mould from your silicone "quite easy" with baking soda.
The first step is to create a paste using baking soda. Baking soda is an "excellent, cheap, and convenient" material to use. They claimed that mixed with water, it is "perfect for removing black mould".
Add two or three teaspoons of baking soda to one cup of water and mix until you have a paste. Using a piece of cloth, scoop out a small amount of paste and apply it directly to the affected black mould area.
It's tempting to rub the paste on and expect instant results, but the experts explained that it doesn't work like that. They said: "The baking soda mixture needs some time to settle on the black mould and do its work." Apply the paste and leave it for five minutes. It's also a good idea to wrap the silicone in cling film to retain the moisture.
After five to 10 minutes, remove the cling film and use a brush or an old toothbrush to scrub away the black mould.
The following step is to use cool water to sponge and rinse the sealant, eliminating any remaining traces of black mould.
You may need to repeat the process several times if the stains have not disappeared. Black mould on silicone can be particularly stubborn; after all, it's in the nature of silicone to be tough and resilient.
Once all of the mould has been eliminated, remember to dry the area with a clean, dry cloth or towel. This is a crucial final stage that is frequently overlooked by those eager to finish the job and head indoors. Drying the silicone "prevents any more mould from forming".
