A cleaning fan has shared a simple method for removing black mould from silicone sealants using white vinegar, which costs just 45p, with no scrubbing required.
Black marks on silicone sealants are typically mould, caused by high moisture levels, poor ventilation, residue from soap, shower gel, and shampoo on the sealant, and warm temperatures common in bathrooms and kitchens. The growth can create unpleasant smells, damage fittings, and potentially spread to walls, ceilings and floors. Homes often see mould developing as dark stains on sealants around windows, sinks, baths and showers.
Vinegar hack shared on Facebook
Removing black mould from silicone sealants can prove difficult due to how persistent the growth tends to be. However, one cleaning fan has taken to the Mrs Hinch Cleaning Tips and Tricks Facebook page to reveal how they tackled the issue with "no scrubbing and no cleaning", using only white vinegar. Sainsbury's sells distilled malted vinegar for 45p.
Sandra Gibson wrote: "I am by no means Mrs Hinch, but I do like a nice clean bathroom and have struggled with black spot marks on my sealant.
"We saw a post where you place some vinegar on the affected area and place a cotton pad (can use kitchen roll too) over the top and leave.
"After forever trying different cleaning chemicals, I didn't have a great deal of hope, but I thought it was worth a try. Omg, thank you to the person who posted this hack!
"No scrubbing and no cleaning, just pick up the cotton pads the next morning and wipe them down. I'm in cleaning heaven. I hope this helps someone else."
Results and reactions
Sandra posted images showing three areas of black mould on the silicone sealant around her bath and shower, alongside three further pictures documenting the same spots during and following the cleaning process, reports the Express. In the photographs showing her results, the sealant appeared completely free of mould.
The cleaning advice attracted more than 300 comments from other group members sharing their thoughts on the technique. Claire Lucas commented: "I did the exact same, and wow, it really does work. No more black spots."
Brown Lottie added: "Yeah, this works well. I use a kitchen roll as it covers a bigger area. Another good one is to use the Astonish Mould and Mildew spray. You spray and leave, it does the same, and the mould is also all gone overnight."
Francis Oliver suggested: "Just spray the area with vinegar once a week. It works fast and will keep mould away." Many homes likely already have a bottle of vinegar stored in their kitchen cupboards, though for those without, it can be picked up cheaply at supermarkets.
