How to Remove Mold From Shower Caulking?
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Mold is a common problem in the bathroom, and it is usually found on shower caulk. It can easily multiply in a moist and warm environment, and what could be warm and moist places other than a shower?
Mold isn’t just an eyesore; it can also be dangerous to those with respiratory conditions and cause serious health issues. Are you looking for the best answers on how to remove mold from shower caulking? Well, we are going to discuss some effective ways to remove it along with the mold growth reasons and how to prevent it.
So, let’s get started.
Causes of Mold Growing in Shower Caulk
Here are a few of the reasons for mold growing in shower caulk:
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Moisture
This is the most common cause of mold growth in shower caulk. When you have a warm and moist environment, it creates an ideal condition for molds to grow. Moreover, the moisture from your body plus humidity creates even more favorable conditions for them to thrive. What’s worse? Bathroom tiles are also perfect surfaces on which molds can grow.
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Pores in the Shower Caulk
Just like tiles, shower caulking is also porous, and it easily absorbs moisture which then leads to its damaged state. And when you have a moist environment surrounded by water-absorbing surfaces, mold growth becomes inevitable.
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Lack of Ventilation
It is another common problem in the bathroom. If your bathroom doesn’t have proper ventilation, it will create a moist and warm environment that is perfect for mold growth.
Is Black Mold in Shower Dangerous?
Yes, black mold in the shower is dangerous. It can cause various health problems, such as respiratory issues, skin irritation, and even neurological damage. Moreover, it can also trigger asthma attacks. So if you see any signs of mold growth in your shower caulking, be sure to take action right away.
How to Remove Mold From Shower Caulking?
You can’t just remove the shower caulk whenever the black mold starts growing. If you do, it will just leave a gaping hole in your shower that is perfect for water to seep through and create more damage.
Here are a few ways on how you can remove the mold from your shower caulking:
1- Removing Mold with Vinegar
This is one of the most popular methods for removing mold. All you need is white vinegar and a spray bottle. First, mix the vinegar with water in a 50:50 ratio, then spray it onto the moldy surfaces. Let it sit for about 15 minutes before scrubbing it off with a brush or sponge. Be sure to wear gloves as vinegar can cause skin irritation.
2- Removing Mold with Baking Soda
Another popular way of removing mold is by using baking soda. Simply mix the baking soda with water to make a paste, then apply it to the moldy surfaces. Let it sit for about 15 minutes before scrubbing it off. Be sure to wear gloves when doing this and avoid getting any of the mixtures in your eyes.
3- Removing Mold with Bleach
Bleach is a powerful disinfectant that can kill both mold and bacteria. However, it’s also corrosive, so you need to be careful when using it. First, mix the bleach with water in a 50:50 ratio, then spray it on the shower caulk. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing it off with water.
4- Use Hydrogen Peroxide Solution
Another environmentally friendly approach to eliminating mold from your shower caulk is hydrogen peroxide. We recommend using 3 percent hydrogen peroxide. Spray the peroxide over the caulk till it is moistened. Allow for 10 minutes for soaking before scrubbing it with a brush or sponge. When you’re done, use a towel or paper towel to dry the surface thoroughly.
5- Borax
The last way of removing mold from your shower caulking is by using borax. We recommend mixing half a cup of Borax with three cups of water to make the solution. Put it in a spray bottle, then spray it over the caulk till moistened. Let it sit for about 20 minutes before scrubbing off any visible residue with a brush or sponge. Be sure to wear gloves when doing this.
6- Replace the Caulk
If the black mold has already damaged your caulk, then it’s time to replace it. Fortunately for you, our shower caulking is efficient and easy to install. It also comes in a variety of colors with an effective water-resistant adhesive backing that sticks firmly on any surface without peeling or cracking over time. However, we recommend using a silicone caulk as it is more reliable than latex.
How to Remove Mold from Silicone Shower Caulk?
If you have silicone caulk installed in your bathroom, you can use a mixture of bleach and water to remove the mold. Simply mix one part bleach with four parts water, then spray it onto the silicone caulk. Let it soak for about 15 minutes before scrubbing off any visible residue with a brush or sponge. Be sure to wear gloves when doing this.
If at any point you feel like you can’t handle the job yourself, or if the mold is too widespread, we suggest hiring a professional to do it for you. At Moldtesters561, we have experienced professionals who can handle any mold infestation. So, contact us in case of mold inspection and removal.
Tools and protective gear To Remove Mold
Here are a few of the tools that you should use while removing mold:
- Gloves and eye protection must be worn to protect the skin from cleaning agents and mold spores.
- A respirator may be necessary to protect against inhalation of spores. A dust mask is not effective in preventing mold inhalation.
- A stiff brush, such as a wire brush or scrubbing pad on an extension handle, can be used to remove the mold.
- An old toothbrush can also be used to clean tight spaces and corners.
- A wet vacuum cleaner or a shop vacuum with a hose and crevice tool can clean surfaces and remove residual water.
- Towels, buckets, and mops for cleaning up the work area and spills.
- Plastic sheeting to protect floors and furniture from damage.
If you have black mold in your shower caulking, it’s important to take action right away. However, if the mold has already caused damage to your caulking, it’s time to replace it.
How to stop Black Mold from Growing in the Shower?
The best way to prevent black mold in your shower caulking is by taking proper precautions. Here are a few tips:
1- Ventilate your Bathroom
Make sure you keep the bathroom well-ventilated, as this will help get rid of excess moisture. Install an exhaust fan if you don’t have one, and make sure it’s always running when you’re taking a shower. Open the windows and door to allow fresh air in while you’re showering.
2- Regularly clean your shower
A build-up of soap scum and dirt can create a perfect environment for mold to grow. Make sure you clean your shower frequently, including the caulking and grout lines.
3- Use Vinegar Solution often
A vinegar solution is a great way to prevent mold from growing. Spray it onto the caulking and grout lines after you’re done showering. This will help get rid of any excess moisture and disinfect the surfaces.
4- Use a squeegee to remove moisture
After you shower, use a squeegee to remove any excess moisture. This will help keep the area dry and prevent mold from growing.
5- Assess caulk more frequently
If you notice any mold on your caulk, remove it immediately. If left unattended, not only will it decay the caulking but also create more damage to your surfaces and tiles.
6- Measure Humidity Levels
If you’re having trouble getting rid of the mold, the humidity levels in your bathroom may be too high. Measure the humidity levels and try to keep them below 50%. You can use a dehumidifier to help get the job done.
If you follow these tips, you can help reduce the chances of black mold forming in your shower caulking. However, if it does start to grow, don’t hesitate to call a professional to remove it.
Final Thoughts
When removing the mold from your shower caulking, you must take your time and be thorough. If you leave any traces of mold, it will just grow back and become even harder to get rid of. And if the black mold is left untreated, it can cause more damage to your bathroom. We hope that you get an idea of how to remove mold from shower caulking by now. So be sure to act quickly and start removing the mold from your shower caulking today.
In case you are looking for professional help, get in touch with us at 5618868241 for all your mold removal needs. At Moldtesters, we have a team of experts who will be happy to assist you with the process and make sure the job is done right.
