A simple household hack could help banish stubborn mould from bathroom sealant without the need for scrubbing.
As cooler weather sets in and windows stay closed, damp air and steam have nowhere to escape, settling on cold surfaces and creating the perfect environment for mould to grow—especially in bathrooms.
Mould often appears first on silicone sealant around baths, sinks, and showers.
Although it may seem like a minor cosmetic problem, it can make a bathroom look tired and indicate deeper moisture issues in the home.
A low-cost cleaning tip making the rounds on TikTok, Reddit, and Facebook involves pressing bleach-soaked tissue onto the affected silicone to remove mould stains.
Guy Chapman, a silicone manufacturing expert at United Silicones, explained why the method is effective.
Mr Chapman said: "Spray cleaners tend to run off sealant within seconds.
"Toilet paper holds the bleach against the silicone, so it stays in contact long enough to lift deep-set staining.
"Using a gel or thicker bleach helps it cling."
To try the method at home, he recommends using gel bleach and toilet paper to keep the bleach in contact with the mould for an extended period.
The process begins with safety precautions.
Wear rubber gloves and eye protection, and ventilate the room by opening a window or using an extractor fan.
Keep children and pets away during treatment, and test the bleach on a small, hidden section first.
The trick will help remove black mould easily. (Image: Getty Images)
Next, clean the sealant by removing soap scum and drying the area thoroughly.
Place toilet paper or kitchen roll along the mouldy sealant, then soak it with undiluted household bleach.
Press it down gently to ensure full contact, and add more bleach if it begins to dry out.
Leave the bleach-soaked tissue in place for 12 to 24 hours.
Although some online guides suggest shorter times, many users report that only an overnight treatment removes the most stubborn stains.
After the time has passed, peel away the tissue and rinse the area thoroughly with clean water.
The process can be repeated if marks remain, though most stains should disappear after one or two applications.
Mr Chapman said: "October is when we see mould really start to flourish in bathrooms.
"The heating goes on, windows stay shut, and warm, steamy air meets colder walls and surfaces.
"That moisture sits there for hours, and mould only needs those conditions to start developing.
"Silicone sealant is water-resistant, but it isn’t mould-proof.
"In most cases, it’s not the sealant's fault, but the surrounding conditions.
"The bleach-soaked tissue method works because it holds the bleach against the sealant for hours rather than seconds, which is what’s needed to lift deep-set staining.
"It’s surprisingly effective, but always wear gloves and eye protection, ventilate the room, and test a hidden area first."
He also emphasised the importance of prevention.
Good ventilation, regular cleaning, and using high-quality sanitary silicone with anti-fungal properties can help keep mould at bay.
Mr Chapman said: "Good airflow, regular cleaning, and choosing a high-quality sanitary silicone with anti-fungal protection will make a significant difference.
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"Dealing with it now means you can head into winter with a fresher, cleaner bathroom."
With the colder months approaching, taking action now can prevent further mould build-up and keep bathrooms looking clean and hygienic.
The bleach-and-tissue trick offers a practical solution for tackling unsightly sealant stains, but Mr Chapman reminds users to prioritise safety and ensure the area is well-ventilated throughout the process.
Will you be trying this trick? Let us know in the comments.