If mildew is growing on the surface of shower silicone, the quickest method is to use a bleach solution or a bleach gel so it stays in contact with the mildew long enough to kill it.
Fast Method (Bleach Gel)
You’ll need:
- Household bleach gel or regular chlorine bleach
- Cotton balls or paper towels
- Gloves
- An old toothbrush
Steps:
- Dry the silicone with a towel.
- If using regular bleach, soak cotton balls or paper towels in bleach and press them onto the mildew.
- Leave for 30 minutes to several hours (overnight for stubborn stains).
- Remove the cotton or towels and scrub gently with a toothbrush.
- Rinse thoroughly with water and dry the area.
Alternative (Hydrogen Peroxide)
If you prefer not to use bleach:
- Spray 3% hydrogen peroxide directly on the mildew.
- Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
- Scrub with a toothbrush.
- Rinse and dry.
If the Black Stains Won’t Come Off
The mildew may have penetrated inside the silicone sealant. In that case, cleaning won’t fully restore it—the fastest permanent fix is to remove the old silicone and apply new mildew-resistant bathroom silicone.
Prevention
- Wipe the shower dry after use.
- Run the exhaust fan or open a window to reduce humidity.
- Clean the shower weekly to prevent mildew from returning.
Safety: Never mix bleach with ammonia, vinegar, or other cleaners, as doing so can produce dangerous gases. Wear gloves and ensure the bathroom is well ventilated.
