How to Remove Mold from Your Bathroom

Remove bathroom mold by cleaning with a bleach solution or white vinegar, improving ventilation, and addressing moisture sources to prevent regrowth.

1. Gear Up and Ventilate. Open windows and turn on the exhaust fan for ventilation. Wear rubber gloves, safety goggles, and an N95 mask to protect against mold spores. Remove any items from the affected area and cover nearby surfaces with plastic sheeting if needed.
2. Mix Your Mold-Killer. Mix one part bleach with ten parts water in a spray bottle for hard surfaces like tile and grout. For porous surfaces or if you prefer a natural approach, use undiluted white vinegar in a spray bottle. Never mix bleach with other cleaners.
3. Spray and Wait. Spray the moldy areas thoroughly with your chosen solution. Let bleach solution sit for 10-15 minutes, or vinegar for 30 minutes. The solution needs time to penetrate and kill the mold at its roots.
4. Scrub Every Crevice. Use an old toothbrush or scrub brush to work the solution into grout lines and textured surfaces. For smooth surfaces, a sponge or cloth works fine. Scrub until all visible mold is removed, paying special attention to corners and caulk lines.
5. Dry It Completely. Rinse all surfaces with clean water to remove cleaning residue. Dry the area completely with clean towels or let air dry with good ventilation running. Moisture left behind will encourage new mold growth.
6. Replace What's Beyond Repair. Remove and replace any caulk that remains moldy after cleaning. For painted walls with extensive mold, scrape off the paint, treat the surface, and repaint with mold-resistant primer and paint.
7. Kill the Moisture Source. Install or upgrade your exhaust fan if needed. Run the fan during and for 30 minutes after showers. Fix any leaks in plumbing or around tub and shower enclosures. Consider adding a dehumidifier if moisture problems persist.