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Mould can be a real problem in bathrooms, especially in the silicone sealant around showers, but one cheap and natural ingredient can help remove it without using harsh chemicals

Silicone sealant is the rubbery edging around showers that prevents water from seeping onto the floor, but unfortunately, the material is prone to developing mould.

Mould flourishes in damp environments such as bathrooms, and spores can bury themselves deep within silicone since it's a porous substance that needs frequent cleaning.

Bleach is good at eliminating mould, but it isn't ideal for shower seals as it only tackles the surface and cannot reach the spores buried deep within the silicone.

Instead, Terry Alexander, a handyman and founder of The Plumbero, has shared that there is a simpler method to destroy mould spores: use white vinegar.

Terry said: "White vinegar is a natural and effective mould remover due to its acidic properties."

White vinegar is one of the most widely used natural cleaning agents as it contains acetic acid, which can break down mould spores without resorting to harsh chemicals.

It's a gentle substance that can be applied to silicone sealant without causing tearing or discolouration, while also being capable of getting right into the silicone to eliminate all the spores, reports the Express.

How to get rid of shower mould

Spray a generous amount of white vinegar onto the affected, mouldy brown areas of the silicone sealant.

Then, leave the white vinegar alone to sit for at least one hour to give it time to kill all the spores.

Natural cleaning methods typically need a bit more time to take effect than chemical alternatives, so for optimal results, consider leaving it overnight if possible.

It's worth noting that white vinegar has a particularly strong odour, which can be quite intense in a bathroom, so ensure you open a window while using it.

After the allocated time has passed, simply use a bristled brush or an old toothbrush to remove the now-loosened mould; it should lift away effortlessly.

Rinse the silicone seal with warm water and thoroughly dry it with a clean cloth to help keep it mould-free.

Cleaning your shower regularly with white vinegar will prevent mould accumulation, but combining it with baking soda and tea tree oil produces a more powerful solution for a fresh clean look that lasts longer.

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