How to Identify and Treat Mould in Wet Areas

Mould thrives in damp, humid spaces like bathrooms, showers, and laundries. If left untreated, it can cause staining, musty smells, and even health issues. The good news? Mould can be removed and prevented with the right approach.

Here’s how to identify, treat, and prevent mould growth in your bathroom and other wet areas.

1. How to Identify Mould in Wet Areas

Mould appears as black, green, or brown patches on damp surfaces. It thrives in areas with poor ventilation and constant moisture.

🔍 Common places mould grows in bathrooms:
✔ Shower grout and tiles – Often seen in corners or along edges.
✔ Silicone seals around sinks, bathtubs, and showers.
✔ Ceilings and walls – Especially in humid bathrooms with little airflow.
✔ Behind vanities and cabinetry – Hidden moisture buildup can cause unseen mould.

💡 Tip: If you notice a musty smell, there’s likely hidden mould nearby.

2. Safe Ways to Remove Mould

🔹 Method 1: White Vinegar (Natural & Effective)

✔ Spray undiluted white vinegar directly onto the mouldy surface.
✔ Let it sit for 30–60 minutes.
✔ Wipe with a microfibre cloth or soft brush.
✔ Rinse with warm water and dry completely.

💡 Best for: Regular cleaning and light mould patches.

🔹 Method 2: Hydrogen Peroxide (For Tougher Mould Stains)

✔ Mix 3% hydrogen peroxide with water in a spray bottle.
✔ Spray onto the mould and let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
✔ Scrub gently and rinse with water.

💡 Best for: Deep-set mould stains in grout and silicone.

🔹 Method 3: Bicarbonate Soda Paste (For Grout & Tiles)

✔ Mix baking soda and water into a thick paste.
✔ Apply to grout lines and let sit for 15 minutes.
✔ Scrub with a soft toothbrush and rinse with warm water.

💡 Best for: Scrubbing stubborn stains without damaging grout.

🚫 Avoid: Using bleach—it only removes surface stains and doesn’t kill mould at the root.

3. When to Replace Silicone or Grout

If mould keeps returning, it may be embedded in the silicone or grout, requiring replacement.

✔ Silicone Replacement:
✅ If mould is inside the silicone around showers and sinks, it’s best to remove and reapply fresh silicone.

✔ Grout Replacement:
✅ If grout is cracked or permanently stained with mould, it may need to be scraped out and replaced.

💡 Tip: Use mould-resistant silicone in bathrooms to prevent future issues.

4. How to Prevent Mould from Coming Back

🚿 Simple ways to keep mould away:
✔ Improve ventilation – Run an exhaust fan or open a window after showering.
✔ Wipe down wet surfaces – Dry shower screens, tiles, and benchtops daily.
✔ Fix leaks quickly – Check for dripping taps, showerheads, or plumbing leaks.
✔ Use a squeegee after showers to reduce moisture on glass and tiles.
✔ Wash towels, bath mats, and shower curtains regularly.

💡 Tip: If your bathroom stays humid, a small dehumidifier can help reduce moisture.

5. When to Call a Professional

📞 Call for help if you notice:
✔ Mould growing behind walls or ceilings – Could indicate a hidden leak.
✔ Persistent mould growth despite regular cleaning.
✔ Large black mould patches – Some mould types can be harmful.
✔ Peeling paint, swollen cabinetry, or musty smells – Signs of deeper moisture damage.

💡 Tip: If mould has spread beyond the surface, a professional may be needed to assess and fix the underlying issue.

Final Thoughts: Keep Your Bathroom Mould-Free

Mould in wet areas is common but preventable. By improving ventilation, wiping down wet surfaces, and treating mould early, you can keep your bathroom clean, fresh, and healthy.

At Custom Bathroom Creations, we design bathrooms with moisture control in mind—helping you enjoy a space that’s easy to maintain and mould-free.

Need advice on managing moisture or leaks? Contact us today!