For many households across the UK, the appearance of black mould in the shower is a familiar and frustrating battle. The instinctive reaction is often to reach for a bottle of cheap bleach, but a leading bathroom expert has issued a stark warning: this common solution is not only ineffective but can actively make the problem worse in the long run.
The Problem with Using Bleach on Mould
Craig Phillips, an authority from Bathroom Mountain, explains that while bleach might seem to work on the surface, its effectiveness is severely limited. Bleach is only capable of eliminating mould from non-porous surfaces, leaving the typical bathroom trouble spots vulnerable.
"Bleach is only a temporary fix," Phillips stated. "It might seem like it's gone, but in reality, it just pushes the mould deeper into the material. Before long, it comes back even worse than before." This is particularly problematic for porous materials like grout and caulking, which are standard in most shower enclosures. The bleach cannot penetrate deeply enough to kill the mould at its root, forcing it further into the material and setting the stage for a more vigorous return.
The Natural, Powerful Alternative
Instead of a harsh chemical that offers a fleeting victory, Phillips recommends a simple switch to a three per cent solution of hydrogen peroxide. This powerful yet gentler alternative can be purchased for under £5 at most chemists or online.
The application process is straightforward. Fully saturate the mouldy area with hydrogen peroxide and let it sit for at least 10 minutes. For vertical surfaces where the liquid might run off, Phillips advises re-spraying the area during this process to keep it moist. For a more thorough clean on stubborn patches, you can soak cotton wool balls in the solution and place them directly on the mould to ensure complete coverage for the full 10 minutes.
When Cleaning Isn't Enough: The Final Resort
Despite the efficacy of hydrogen peroxide, the expert delivered a sobering reality check for some severe cases. Phillips warned that if mould has become deeply embedded in your shower's caulking, no cleaning solution will completely eradicate it.
He explained, "Once mould has embedded itself into caulking, it's impossible to make it disappear. The only option is to remove the old caulking and reapply new sealant." This highlights the critical importance of preventative measures to stop mould from taking hold in these susceptible areas in the first place.
Prevention is always better than cure, and for mould, the root cause is always moisture. Craig Phillips emphasised tackling this directly. His top tips include using a squeegee on shower walls after every use and drying the entire area with a towel to remove residual moisture. Furthermore, improving ventilation by using an extractor fan or keeping a window open during and after showering can drastically reduce the damp conditions that mould thrives in.
