How to Fix Mouldy Shower Caulk in 8 Simple Steps!

Design: KOZÉ Studios

Mouldy shower caulk is a common problem which all homeowners face. For the uninitiated, caulk refers to either the waterproof filler or sealant which is either silicone, acrylic, or latex based. Caulk is frequently used to waterproof joints in areas like bathtubs, showers and so on.

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Contrary to popular belief, sloppy workmanship or inferior material does not cause the shower caulk to turn mouldy. In actuality, the high level of moisture and humidity in the bathroom encourages the mould to grow and flourish on tiles and caulk. Since caulk usually comes in white or beige in color, it will turn green and subsequently black when the mould starts to spread and thrive.

Therefore, you should consider getting their renovation professionals to use anti-fungal bathroom silicone sealant to prevent mould from invading your bathrooms.

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Nevertheless, getting rid of the unsightly mouldy shower caulk is pretty easy; you do not need to get the professional to scrape, remove the blackened caulk and re-caulk the joints! You can follow these 8 simple steps to restore your mouldy caulk back to its former glory!

Step 1: Prepare the following tools

1. Cotton Pads

Cotton pads are needed to soak the mouldy area with bleach.

2. Scissors

Scissors are used to cut the cotton pads into strips.

3. Plastic Spoon

The plastic spoon is used to pour the bleach onto the cotton pads.

4. Bleach*

Bleach* is one of the effective household cleaners to remove mould.

5. Mask & Gloves

Protect yourself with a high quality mask such as a disposable N95 particulate respirator and good quality gloves.

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Note: Bleach* is the most common and effective household cleaners to treat stubborn stains and moulds. However, regular use of bleach* might expose you and your family members to toxic bleach fumes which will increase the risk of respiratory infection and issues. Therefore, you should also consider using this DIY all-natural bleach alternative.

 Step 2. Identify which areas of the caulk are mouldy

The mouldy caulk is usually found at the edges and corners of the shower walls.

Step 3. Cut the cotton pads into strips

Cut the cotton pads into strips. The width of the strips should be wider than the mouldy caulk.

Step 4. Place the strips of cotton pads onto the mouldy caulk

Cover the mouldy caulk with the cotton pad strips.

Step 5. Use the plastic spoon to soak the cotton strips with bleach

Put on your mask, gloves and ensure that the bathroom is well ventilated. Soak the cotton strips with bleach.

Step 6. Leave the bleach soaked cotton strips on the mouldy caulk for around 6-8 hours

Once you are done, leave the cotton strips to soak the mouldy caulk for around half a day.

Step 7. Remove the bleach soaked cotton strips

Use the plastic spoon to remove the cotton strips and dispose them into a plastic bag.

The mould has been removed!

The caulk should be free of mould and looks pristine clean.

Step 8. Clean the shower area with lots of water to get rid of any residue bleach

Lastly, remove the residual bleach by hosing the shower caulk  with a lot of water.

 

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