Last Updated on March, 2025
Let’s talk about bathroom mould.
It’s gross, stubborn, and just keeps coming back if you don’t deal with it properly. But you’re not alone in this battle.
With the right steps (and a little elbow grease), you can remove bathroom mould, stop it from spreading, and even prevent mould from coming back.
So, if you’re tired of scrubbing bathroom walls or staring at black spots on your tiles, let’s get right into it.
No fluff, just simple, actionable steps.
Quick Summary
- Use household items like vinegar, baking soda, bleach, tea tree oil, or hydrogen peroxide for mould removal. Each method suits different levels of mould infestation, while store-bought mould killers can handle tougher cases.
- Start by wearing protective gear and ventilating the bathroom. Scrub affected areas using your chosen solution, rinse thoroughly, and dry everything to prevent moisture buildup, which fuels mould growth.
- Ensure proper ventilation, fix leaks quickly, control humidity, and maintain cleanliness. Regularly clean towels, shower curtains, and hidden areas like under sinks or behind toilet tanks to keep mould from returning.
Why Does Mould Love Bathrooms?
Mould thrives on moisture, warmth, and dark corners. In other words, your bathroom is a paradise for mould growth.
Excess moisture from steamy showers, leaking pipes, or wet towels makes it even easier for mould spores to settle in.
But here’s the thing, bathroom mould isn’t just ugly. It can trigger skin irritation, allergic reactions, and even cold-like symptoms.
If you’ve been noticing musty smells or visible mould on your tiles, shower curtains, or bathroom wall, it’s time to act.
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Proactive Steps to Remove Mould
Step 1: Gear Up Before You Get Started
Before jumping into mould removal, make sure you’re ready. Cleaning mould can release mould spores into the air, which isn’t great for your health.
Follow these safety precautions:
- Wear protective gloves to keep your hands safe.
- Use a face mask to avoid inhaling mould spores.
- Pop on some safety glasses to protect your eyes.
- Ventilate the bathroom by opening a bathroom window or turning on the bathroom exhaust fan.
Step 2: Pick Your Mould-Busting Method
You don’t need fancy tools to tackle mould problems. Here are some tried-and-tested ways to remove mould using items you probably already have at home:
- Vinegar Solution
Vinegar is a fantastic natural remedy to kill mould. It doesn’t just clean mould; it helps prevent regrowth. Mix four parts white vinegar with one part water, grab a spray bottle, and spritz it on the affected area.
Let it sit for 30 minutes, then scrub with a scrubbing brush or an old toothbrush.
- Bicarbonate Soda Paste
For light mould growth, mix baking soda with water into a thick paste. This works well for non-porous surfaces like tiles. Scrub gently to avoid scratching and rinse thoroughly.
- Bleach Solution
Bleach is your best bet for tough mould stains. Mix one part bleach with three parts water, apply it to the affected area, and scrub away. Don’t forget to rinse well afterward.
- Tea Tree Oil Solution
Tea tree oil is a natural antifungal superstar for tackling mould. Mix a teaspoon of tea tree oil with a cup of water in a spray bottle, shake it up, and spritz the mouldy spots.
Let it sit for an hour, then wipe it away with a cloth or sponge. Bonus: it leaves your space smelling fresh while keeping mould from coming back!
- Hydrogen Peroxide Solution
Hydrogen peroxide is a simple yet powerful mould remover. Just spray 3% hydrogen peroxide directly on the mould, let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then scrub and wipe clean. It not only kills the mould but also brightens surfaces—quick, easy, and effective!
- Store-Bought Mould Killers
If natural remedies aren’t cutting it, store-bought mould killers can save the day. Follow the instructions carefully and keep the space ventilated while you work.
Step 3: Scrub, Rinse, and Dry
Now it’s time to get rid of mould for good.
Start scrubbing the affected area, focusing on grout lines, tiles, or the shower recesses. Use a microfibre cloth to wipe surfaces clean.
Once you’re done, rinse thoroughly with water and dry everything with a clean towel. Mould feeds on moisture, so don’t skip the drying step!
Step 4: Tackle Bigger Mould Problems
If you’ve got mould embedded in silicone sealant or grout, regular cleaning won’t cut it.
Here’s what you can do:
- Replace Sealant: Remove and replace mouldy sealant to stop it from spreading.
- Re-Grouting Tiles: Scrape out old grout with a grout saw, apply new grout, and seal it after a few hours.
- Call a Mould Expert: For larger infestations, it’s best to call in a professional who can completely remove the mould.
Preventing Mould: Keep it From Coming Back
Removing mould is one thing, but preventing mould is where the real magic happens.
Here’s how to keep your bathroom mould-free:
1. Keep it Ventilated
Proper ventilation is key. Run the exhaust fan during and after showers, or crack open a window to let moisture escape.
2. Wipe Down Surfaces
Don’t let moisture build up. Use a squeegee to remove water from tiles, bathroom wall, and glass after use. Dry bathroom taps and wipe surfaces with a towel.
3. Fix Leaks
Dripping taps or leaking pipes? Fix them as soon as possible. Even small leaks create damp areas that mould loves.
4. Control Humidity
Keep bathroom humidity below 50%. A small dehumidifier or moisture absorbers can help, especially in poorly ventilated bathrooms.
5. Wash Towels and Curtains Regularly
Mould loves damp towels and shower curtains. Wash them weekly, and make sure they’re completely dry before reusing. If you spot mould on your shower curtain, clean them or replace them with mildew-resistant options.
What About Hidden Mould?
Sometimes, mould hides in places you wouldn’t expect. Check behind toilet tanks, under sinks, and in ventilation ducts. These areas can harbour mould and mildew growth if they’re damp and poorly ventilated.
Spotting Mould Before it Gets Worse
Early signs of mould problems include:
- Musty smells: A damp, earthy odour in your bathroom.
- Visible mould: Black, green, or brown spots on tiles, grout, or walls.
- Wall damage: Cracked grout, build up, or soft tiles often mean moisture behind the surface.
Don’t wait for it to spread, tackle mould growth as soon as you see it.
Natural Remedies vs. Chemicals
If you prefer natural remedies, stick to options like vinegar or baking soda. They’re effective for light mould removal and safer for sensitive areas. For heavier infestations, bleach or a store-bought mould killer may be necessary.
Quick Maintenance Tips to Keep Mould Away
- Dust Regularly: Moulds feed on organic matter like dust and dead skin cells. Clean weekly with a damp cloth.
- Seal Grout Annually: Protect grout from moisture with a sealant.
- Check Your Exhaust Fans: Make sure they’re working properly and strong enough to remove excess moisture.
- Keep the Area Clean and Dry: Always dry surfaces after use and keep the space well ventilated.
Final Thoughts
Mould removal isn’t rocket science, but it does require consistency. Start with simple methods like a vinegar solution or baking soda paste, and always dry your bathroom thoroughly. For tougher spots, don’t hesitate to replace sealant or re-grout.
If mould keeps coming back, it might be time to look at bigger issues like poor ventilation or hidden leaks.
And if you’re ready to take your bathroom from “mouldy mess” to “sparkling clean,” we’re here to help with all your bathroom renovation needs.
Give us a call, we’ve got you covered!
Now you’ve got the tools, tips, and tricks to clean mould, prevent mould, and keep your bathroom looking fresh. So grab that spray bottle, roll up your sleeves, and show that mould who’s boss!
