Mould in the shower is a common problem, but sometimes no amount of scrubbing will make it disappear. If mould has worked its way underneath the silicone sealant around your shower, cleaning products can only do so much. The good news? Replacing old silicone is a straightforward DIY job that can leave your bathroom looking fresh, clean and mould-free.
Why Can't You Clean Mouldy Silicone?
Surface mould can often be removed with a good quality mould remover. However, when mould penetrates beneath the silicone, it becomes trapped inside the sealant itself.
At this point, cleaning products won't reach the source of the problem. The only effective solution is to completely remove the old silicone and replace it with a fresh bead of sealant.
What You'll Need:
How You Do It:
Step 1: Remove the old silicone
Start by carefully cutting and removing the existing silicone from the joint.
Expert Tip - Take your time during this step and remove as much of the old sealant as possible. The cleaner the surface, the better the new silicone will adhere.
Step 2: Remove any remaining residue
Once you've removed the bulk of the silicone, apply a small amount of mineral turpentine to a cloth and rub it over any remaining residue.
This helps soften leftover silicone, making it much easier to scrape away. Continue until the surface is clean and free of old sealant.
Step 3: Clean away the mould
With the old silicone removed, thoroughly clean the area using Selleys Rapid Mould Killer.
Expert Tip - Any mould left behind can quickly return and affect the new silicone. Follow the product instructions carefully and ensure all affected areas are treated.
Step 4: Allow the area to dry completely
Before applying Selleys Wet Area Silicone Sealant, make sure the area is completely dry.
Expert Tip - Moisture trapped beneath fresh silicone can prevent proper adhesion and may contribute to future mould growth. Allow sufficient drying time before moving to the next step.
Cut the nozzle of your silicone cartridge at a 45-degree angle. Position the angled cut towards the wall and move steadily along the joint to create an even bead of silicone.
Expert Tip - A smooth, consistent application will help create a watertight seal and deliver a professional-looking finish.
Step 6: Smooth the silicone
Apply a small amount of soapy water to your chosen smoothing tool (or simply use a finger). Gently run the tool along the bead of silicone, pressing it into the joint and smoothing the surface. This removes excess material and helps create a neat finish.
Step 7: Let it cure
After applying the silicone, allow it to cure for 72 hours before exposing it to water. This ensures the sealant reaches its full strength and provides long-lasting protection.
Replacing mouldy silicone is one of the simplest ways to improve the appearance and hygiene of your bathroom. While cleaning products can tackle surface mould, silicone that has been compromised by mould growth underneath must be replaced.
With the right preparation and a little patience, you can achieve a clean, professional result that helps keep your shower looking its best for years to come. Head to your local Inspirations Paint store for everything you need for this project and more.