Cleaning moldy silicone around your bathroom or kitchen can be a bit of a hassle, but it’s essential for maintaining a healthy environment and keeping areas looking fresh. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to effectively clean moldy silicone seals:

Supplies You Will Need:

• White vinegar or hydrogen peroxide
• Baking soda
• Rubber gloves
• Safety goggles (optional)
• Soft scrub brush or an old toothbrush
• Spray bottle
• Cloth or sponge
• Plastic scraper (optional)

Steps to Clean Moldy Silicone:

1. Protect Yourself:

• Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands from mold and cleaning agents. Safety goggles are also recommended to prevent splashes in your eyes.

2. Prepare Cleaning Solution:

• If using vinegar: Fill a spray bottle with white vinegar. Vinegar is a natural mold killer and is safe for most surfaces.
• If using hydrogen peroxide: Use a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution directly without diluting it.

3. Apply the Cleaning Solution:

• Generously spray the moldy silicone with your chosen cleaning solution. Make sure the area is completely saturated. Let it sit for about an hour to allow the solution to penetrate and kill the mold spores.

4. Apply Baking Soda:

• After letting the solution sit, sprinkle baking soda over the area. Baking soda acts as a mild abrasive that will help scrub the mold away without damaging the silicone.

5. Scrub the Area:

• Use a soft brush or an old toothbrush to scrub the silicone. Be thorough but gentle to avoid damaging the seal. The combination of vinegar or hydrogen peroxide and baking soda should help lift the mold from the silicone.

6. Wipe Clean:

• After scrubbing, use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe the area clean. Ensure all mold and residue are removed.

7. Rinse Thoroughly:

• If accessible, rinse the area with clean water. Otherwise, wipe it down several times with a wet cloth to remove any remaining cleaning solution.

8. Dry the Area:

• Use a clean, dry cloth to dry the area thoroughly. Mold thrives in moisture, so keeping the silicone dry will prevent mold from returning.

9. Optional: Apply a Protective Coating:

• After cleaning and drying, consider applying a silicone sealant or a mold-resistant product to protect the area and help prevent future mold growth.

Tips:

• Ventilation: Ensure good ventilation in the area while you’re cleaning to help disperse fumes and reduce moisture.
• Regular Cleaning: Regularly clean and dry areas prone to moisture buildup to prevent mold from forming.
• Seal Leaks: Check for any leaks or dampness around the area and fix them to prevent future mold growth.

By following these steps, you can effectively remove mold from silicone seals and help ensure they remain clean and mold-free.