Black spots on the silicone around the bathtub or in the shower are not just an aesthetic problem. They are persistent, annoying and – let's be honest – a bit disgusting, the result of too much moisture, not enough ventilation and organic chaos (residues of shampoo, gel, soap and everything else that shouldn't be there). Most often it is mold, which likes to take root in the very places where we have the least time and will for detective cleaning. And once it settles in – well, then it doesn't think of moving out just like that.
But don't worry – there is a solution for dark spots. mold, which is cheaper than chewing gum, more effective than many advertised cleaners, and so simple that you'll wonder why you didn't know about it sooner.
Forget about expensive cleaning equipment – with a simple trick and two ingredients that you probably already have at home, you can say goodbye to stubborn mold without scrubbing or nervous breakdowns.
Why does mold even occur?
Mold is like that annoying aunt at a holiday dinner party – it shows up when you least expect it and stays for far too long. It thrives where there is moisture, heat and a lack of air circulation. Silicone grout, due to its porosity and constant exposure to moisture, is an ideal breeding ground for these black invaders.
Shower cabin, especially in the corners, is a perfect candidate: we pour hot water on it while showering, leave the door closed, forget to wipe the edges – and voilà, mold signs its lease.
A solution that costs almost nothing
No, it's not about baking soda, lemon, or some exotic miracle cure from the other side of the world. The solution is – a combination of vinegar and simple cotton wool or paper towels. Yes, you read that right. No scrubbing, no chemicals, no protective masks or gloves (although… vinegar does have its own smell, but be warned).
The procedure is as follows:
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- Prepare the vinegar – regular white vinegar, which you can find in any store. It doesn't have to be organic or eco-friendly – just regular vinegar will do the job more than perfectly.
- Soak a cotton ball or towel in vinegar. You can also use strips of paper towels or cotton balls.
- Place the soaked cotton wool on the moldy parts of the silicone. Don't skimp on material – better too much than too little.
- Leave it on overnight. During this time, let the vinegar and mold exchange opinions about life.
- In the morning, remove the cotton wool and wipe the surface. If everything was done correctly (and believe me, it's almost impossible to go wrong), black spots will be a thing of the past.
Prevention: because we don't want history to repeat itself
Although the method is almost miraculous, mold won't think long before returning – if you provide a pleasant environment for it again. Therefore:
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- After every shower wipe the walls and joints (yes, we know – who has the time, but still).
- Ventilate the bathroom. If you don't have a window, leave the door open, use a fan, or use the "open-everything-you-can" ventilation system.
- Once a week spray the joints with vinegarto scare away potential guests right from the doorstep.
Clean, no drama – and for a pittance
In a time when it seems like we have to resort to chemicals with warning signs and instructions in three languages for every little problem, it's refreshing to discover that there are solutions that are simple, natural and - almost free. And if your bathroom smells without a musty smell, then that's a win on all fronts.
So, the next time you see those black spots in the corner of your shower – don’t scream. Just open the kitchen cabinet, grab some vinegar, and get ready for some quiet but effective revenge.
