Mold buildup on putty is one of the hardest places to clean, especially if it’s been there for months or years. Luckily, cleaning experts have shared a kitchen cupboard staple that makes it “impossible” for mold to return.
It would be logical to think that with the waterproof qualities of the silicone sealant, mold could not grow there. However, over time, the silicone sealant can pull away from the surface, allowing water to start collecting on it.
Mold loves warm, humid environments. As the bathroom is a damp environment, if surfaces are not dried after each use, spores released from mold can land on the damp area and grow.
When it comes to removing mould, using strong chemicals is “not always the best option”, warn cleaning experts from UK firm Fantastic Services. Instead, they suggested two of the “best natural cleaners” that will help remove mold from bathroom sealants.
Baking soda “works great” as a mold remover. Mix it with a little water until you get a thick paste. Spread this paste on the moldy area and let it act for a while. Then, using an old toothbrush, scrub the mold and rinse with water.
White vinegar is a versatile cleaning agent and it’s also a “fantastic mold remover”. Experts said, “Its acidity makes it impossible for mold to grow, and vinegar can kill up to 82% of mold species.” Simply spray the vinegar solution on the affected areas and wipe the surface with lukewarm water after an hour. Dry the surface thoroughly with a towel to prevent mold from returning. It’s a good idea to keep a bottle of vinegar handy in the bathroom and spray it on mold-prone surfaces twice a week. Vinegar guarantees that the “return of mold will be impossible” on the treated surfaces.
If the mold seems stubborn, mix the vinegar with enough baking soda to make a thick paste and reapply, leave overnight and repeat the cleaning process.
There are also a few preventative measures that households can take to try to prevent mold growth on silicone sealants. One measure is to wipe surfaces dry after taking a bath or shower, as this can remove the environment that mold needs to thrive and grow. Bathrooms should also be ventilated to prevent mold growth. This can be done by opening a window or with an extractor fan.