How to Remove Mould from Shower

Black mould can be a common occurrence in rooms that are prone to damp, such as poorly ventilated bathrooms, and is often found on silicone seals, grout and shower cubicles.

Not only does mould look unsightly and cause a musty odour, it has been proven to be very bad for your health, especially for those with respiratory disorders such as asthma.

Ensuring your shower is kept clean and mould-free is about more than aesthetics, it’s imperative for health and well-being.

Understanding the Causes of Black Mould in Bathrooms and Showers

Black mould is a pervasive issue, and understanding the core causes black mould in bathrooms is the first step toward effective treatment and long-term prevention. Fundamentally, mould is a fungus that requires three elements to thrive: moisture, a food source, and suitable temperatures. Bathrooms and showers provide the perfect mix of these conditions, making them high-risk environments for persistent growth.

Excessive Moisture and High Humidity: The Primary Cause

The most significant factor for why mould grows in the shower and bathroom is the production of high humidity through bathing. Every time you run a hot shower or a bath, you introduce large amounts of warm water vapour into a relatively small, often enclosed space.

When this warm, moisture-laden air hits a colder surface, such as tiling, grout lines, walls, or windows, it rapidly cools and turns into liquid water, known as condensation.

This condensation provides the constant supply of standing moisture necessary for dormant mould spores, which are always present in the air, to germinate and begin forming visible colonies, typically within 24 to 48 hours.

Poor Ventilation and Lack of Airflow

The second major contributor to causes black mould in bathrooms is inadequate ventilation. If the moist air produced by showering isn't quickly exchanged with drier air, the high humidity lingers.

Many older bathrooms lack effective extractor fans, or existing fans may be undersized or not run long enough. Without proper airflow, condensation doesn't dissipate; instead, it settles on porous materials like grout, silicone seals, and drywall.

This creates a perpetually damp environment in corners, behind fixtures, and along window sills, the exact spots where mould colonies become established and flourish.

Food Source: Organic Residue and Soap Scum

Finally, mould needs fuel to grow. In the bathroom, the food source is abundant and unique: it consists of organic residue. This includes traces of soap scum, shampoo residue, discarded skin cells, dust particles, and fibres trapped within the porous and rough surface of grout and caulk.

These materials are rich in carbon, providing the essential nutrients the mould needs to spread rapidly. Therefore, the combination of constant moisture, trapped humidity, and the ready supply of organic fuel makes the shower area and bathroom walls the perfect habitat for black mould unless a dedicated, fungicidal cleaning regime is maintained.

Introducing GK Mould and Mildew Cleaner

GK Mould and Mildew Cleaner is a professional strength cleaner which easily cleans stubborn mould, mildew, grime and household contamination. Not only does using GK Mould and Mildew Cleaner clean your bathroom, regular use has been proven to prevent the reappearance of mould.

GK Mould and Mildew Cleaner penetrates mould spore roots which causes them to quickly decompose. Its deep cleaning is long-lasting for continuous protection after use.

GK Mould and Mildew Cleaner removes mould and mildew quickly and efficiently, simply spray onto the affected area, and once dry, agitate with a soft brush or pad. Wipe off the residue using a damp cloth and rinse the area thoroughly with clean water. For stubborn stains, repeat the process as required.

Suitable for all hard colour fast surfaces, it leaves a bright, residue free finish, and is suitable for use in bathrooms, kitchens and other areas prone to dampness. Remove black mould immediately and hygienically with GK Mould and Mildew Cleaner for a clean, green and healthy household environment.

How to Apply GK Mould and Mildew Remover

Surface Preparation: Remove any loose dirt from the surface before application to ensure optimal results.

Testing: Always conduct a small test on a hidden portion of the substrate before full application. This step ensures the desired result and helps calculate consumption accurately.

Spraying: Spray a generous coat of the GK Mould and Mildew Cleaner on the affected area from a distance of 15-20cm. Allow the product to dry completely.

Agitation: Once dry, agitate the affected area using a soft brush or pad. This step ensures effective penetration and removal of mould/mildew.

Wiping Off: Wipe off the mould/mildew residue using a damp cloth or kitchen towel. Ensure thorough removal of contaminants.

Rinsing: Rinse the treated area thoroughly with clean water to complete the cleaning process.

Stubborn Stains: For stubborn stains, consider reapplying the GK Mould and Mildew Cleaner and repeating the process for optimal results.

Key Features of GK Mould and Mildew Cleaner

Fast Acting: Achieves quick and efficient results for time-saving cleaning.

Biodegradable: Environmentally friendly, ensuring minimal impact on ecosystems and plant life.

Low Odour: Features a barely perceptible odour for a pleasant user experience.

Contains No Bleach or Acids: Formulated without harsh chemicals, enhancing safety and surface compatibility - possesses a pH Level of 8 (Virtually Neutral).

100% Soluble in Water: The product is in liquid form and fully dissolves in water, facilitating effective cleaning and rinsing.

Household Cleaning Alternatives

Can I Use Vinegar to Remove Mould in the Shower?

For very mild mould staining a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water can be used to clean stains. Apply the mixture to the affected area, let it work for a few minutes, then scrub and rinse away any residue.

Can I Use Baking Soda to Remove Mould in the Shower?

For mild mould staining you can make a paste of baking soda and a little water to apply to affected areas. Leave this to work for a few minutes before scrubbing and then rinsing thoroughly.

Can I Use Bleach to Remove Mould in the Shower?

For stubborn mould you can use a mixture of 1 part bleach to 2 parts water. Spray the solution onto the affected area and allow this to work for 10-15 minutes. Scrub and rinse thoroughly. Remember to use hand, face and eye protection when using bleach, and check surface compatibility prior to use to avoid further damage.

We would always recommend using a commercial mould cleaner as these have been specially designed and formulated to effectively clean mould while preserving the surface’s colour and integrity.

Summary

To effectively remove and prevent mould in showers and bathrooms, use a professional cleaning product such as GK Mould and Mildew Cleaner. Easy to use and safe for hard colour fast surfaces, GK Mould and Mildew Cleaner leaves showers clean for a healthy home environment.