How to Remove Moldy Bathroom Caulk
Caulk is a flexible, glue-like substance used to seal joints where dissimilar surfaces meet. Tub, shower and sink joints contain caulk to seal out water and prevent leaks. However, mold spores are attracted to the excessive moisture and humidity in bathroom caulk. Mildew feeds on caulk accumulated with soap scum, body oils and grime. Removing mold-infested caulk is essential to a bathroom's healthy environment and overall appearance. Fortunately, basic supplies can effectively remove moldy caulk from bathrooms. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Leather work gloves
- Sharp utility knife
- Needle-nose pliers
- Spray bottle
- Razor blade
- Plastic bucket
- 1/3-cup chlorine bleach
- Foam brush
- Nylon scrub brush
- Terrycloth towel
Instructions
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1
Put on leather work gloves to protect your hands.
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Make a cut along the length of the caulk bead using a sharp utility knife. Slice completely through the caulk.
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3
Grasp the end of the caulk bead with needle-nose pliers. Peel the caulk bead from the joint.
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4
Fill a spray bottle with warm water. Spray water liberally onto the remaining caulk at act as a lubricant.
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5
Scrape off the remaining caulk using a razor blade. Hold the blade at a shallow angle and apply light pressure. Frequently spray the joint with water to prevent scratching the surface.
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6
Fill a clean plastic bucket with 1 gallon of cold water. Add 1/3 cup of chlorine bleach to the water. Thoroughly mix the solution.
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Apply the bleach solution to the joint, using a foam brush. Keep the bleach solution on the surface for at least 10 minutes to kill mold and mildew.
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Scrub the joint with a nylon scrub brush. Spray the joint with water to rinse away the bleach solution.
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Dry the joint surfaces with a terrycloth towel.
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Tips & Warnings
You can substitute a plastic scraper for the razor blade.
Soften stubborn caulk residue by soaking it in rubbing alcohol.
Do not mix the bleach solution with ammonia cleaners or other household chemicals; poisonous fumes can emit into the air.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
