How to Get Rid of Mold & Mildew on Silicone Caulk

Caulk helps seal the window.

Silicone caulk is a sealant, used to keep moisture and air from passing through to the next surface. Some brands of silicone caulk resist mildew growth by design, yet that won’t necessarily protect the caulk from mold and mildew damage. If mold and mildew are deep in the caulk, it is impossible to get rid of them. In such a case, remove the caulk, clean the area and apply fresh silicone caulk. If the mold and mildew are only on the surface, it may be possible to remove them.

Things You'll Need

• White distilled vinegar
• Rag
• Baking soda
• Cup
• Spray bottle
• Bleach

Instructions

1. Wipe the caulk with a cloth drenched in white distilled vinegar. Rub the area.

2. Scrub the area with a paste made from baking soda and water, if the vinegar failed to remove the stain. Add just enough water to the baking soda to make a paste the consistency of toothpaste.

3. Fill a spray bottle with one part bleach to four parts water, if the mold or mildew remains.

4. Spray the area with the bleach solution, and leave for 30 minutes.

5. Scrub the area with a soft scrub brush, and rinse with warm water and dry.

References

• Clean Sweep; Alison Haynes
• Natco: Cleaning, Killing and Removing the Mold in a Tile Shower