Silicone sealant is the rubbery material found along the length of showers or baths, and over time the surface can come away to leave it vulnerable to mould.
Black mould thrives in humid environments such as bathrooms and can be challenging to clean from silicone as its strong adhesion to surfaces makes it difficult to scrub or scrap away any build-up.
Once mould has made its way into silicone, it is incredibly tough to remove as not only is the sealant designed to be waterproof but it is also resistant to many common household cleaners.
However, Becky Rapinchuk, a cleaning expert and founder of Clean Mama has shared there is a “simple process” to keep your bathroom clean and mildew-free which is to wipe it down with a homemade cleaning solution.
She said: “Using a daily shower spray will keep soap scum and mildew at bay and make it easier to clean your shower.”
How to make a simple shower cleaner spray to clean silicone
All you need is:
- 240ml of water
- 130ml of vodka
- 10 drops of peppermint essential oil
- An empty spray bottle
Mix the solution in the spray bottle, then tightly place the lid on and give the bottle a good shake.
Place the solution in a shower caddy or somewhere in your bathroom and give the silicone a wipe-down at least once a week.
Becky added that she cleans her silicone weekly as part of her “Monday cleaning routine” but recommends doing it daily for anyone concerned about mould build-up.
She said: “Spray cleaner on walls, tiles, shower surround, faucets, shower head, etc. Let sit for 10-15 minutes. Scrub clean and rinse thoroughly.”
It should be noted that essential oils can be toxic for dogs and cats, and if you have the best it is better to use a vinegar solution which can also get into the silicone to clean it.
Becky said: “Some people swear by using a combination of equal parts white vinegar and dish soap in a handled sponge dispenser. Try that technique if you’d like and see if that works for you.”
What to do once there is mould in your silicone
Once mould has made its way into your shower or bath then you will need a much tougher solution and Becky recommends using hydrogen peroxide.
Becky said: “If you have a little mildew in your shower, spray straight hydrogen peroxide on the spot(s). Let sit for up to an hour and rinse.
“You can put a clean spray nozzle right on top of a hydrogen peroxide bottle – keep the hydrogen peroxide in the brown container it came in. It loses its effectiveness when it comes in contact with light.”
Hydrogen peroxide is a natural antibacterial agent which can kill spores, but make sure to keep stored in a dark and cool place as it breaks down when exposed to light.
This solution is reliable but can bleach certain materials so it is best to test it on a small area first. Anyone concerned about bleaching should consider using white vinegar as it is mildly acidic and can also have antifungal properties.
Becky said: “You can also try using the same process with just straight white vinegar, no rinsing is necessary.”
