How to Get Rid of Bathroom Mould (and Stop It Coming Back)

2 min read · 6 steps · Updated 2 October 2026

Black spots on the silicone, the ceiling or the tile grout? That's mould, and it loves warm, damp bathrooms. Here's how to clean it safely and, more importantly, how to stop it coming back.

First, why does mould grow? It needs moisture. Every shower puts a lot of water into the air, and when it settles on cold walls and stays there, mould starts to grow.

Step by step

1. 

   Protect yourself

   Open a window, wear rubber gloves, and ideally a mask. Mould spores can irritate your lungs, especially if you have asthma or allergies.

   Done

2. 

   Clean small areas

   For small spots on tiles and grout, use a mould cleaner from the shop and follow the instructions, or try white vinegar. Spray it on, leave it for an hour, then scrub and wipe it off.

   Never mix cleaning products, especially bleach with vinegar or ammonia. This can create toxic gas.

   Done

3. 

   Replace bad silicone

   If mould has grown deep into the silicone seals, cleaning won't remove it completely. Cut out the old silicone, clean and dry the area, and apply new mould resistant silicone.

   Done

4. 

   Ventilate after every shower

   This is the most important step. Open the window wide for a few minutes after showering, or run the extractor fan for at least fifteen to twenty minutes.

   Done

5. 

   Dry the surfaces

   Use a squeegee or towel to remove water from the tiles and shower screen. It only takes a minute and removes a lot of moisture.

   Done

6. 

   Keep it warm

   Cold walls attract condensation. Keep the bathroom heated in winter, and leave the door open after airing so the air can circulate.

   Done

Good to know

If the mould covers a large area, keeps coming back, or you rent and it's caused by damp walls, talk to your landlord or a professional. That may be a building problem, not a cleaning problem.

In short: Protect yourself, clean small spots, replace bad silicone, ventilate after every shower, dry the surfaces, and keep the room warm.