How to Get Rid of Bathroom Mould and Keep It from Coming Back

Scrubbing black mould from shower grout is an important step in learning how to get rid of mould in bathroom areas where moisture builds up daily.

Bathroom mould is one of those household problems that tends to creep in quietly, but if left alone, it can spread quickly and cause real damage.

Whether it’s black spots on your tiles, mould in the grout lines, or stains creeping across the ceiling, the cause is usually the same:

moisture that doesn’t dry out properly.

In this article, you’ll learn how to remove bathroom mould safely and effectively, how to know when it’s time to call in

Why Bathroom Mould Should Be Taken Seriously

Bathrooms are naturally humid spaces, which makes them the perfect breeding ground for mould.

Warm air from hot showers, poor airflow, and lingering dampness create ideal conditions for mould to grow on just about any surface.

While it might start as a small patch, bathroom mould can:

• Trigger allergies, asthma, or respiratory irritation

• Cause fatigue, sinus issues, or headaches with ongoing exposure

• Damage grout, silicone, ceiling paint, and even wall plaster

• Indicate a hidden leak or long-term moisture issue

If your bathroom regularly smells musty, or if symptoms worsen after time spent in the space, mould could be a contributing factor.

Read also: 17 Signs of Mould Illness You Shouldn’t Ignore

How to Assess the Mould Before You Clean

Before grabbing a scrub brush, take a few minutes to assess the mould and understand what you’re dealing with.

This will help you decide whether you can handle the job yourself or should call in an expert. Consider these questions:

1. How big is the mould patch? If it’s smaller than one square metre, it’s usually safe to clean yourself. Larger areas may need professional remediation.

2. Where is it growing?

   Mould on tiles or grout is likely surface-level. But if it’s on ceiling paint, in silicone seals, or behind tiles, that could mean moisture has penetrated the surface.

3. Has it come back before?

   Recurrent mould usually points to a deeper issue, such as poor ventilation, inadequate drying, or hidden water damage.
   

Mild vs Advanced Mould: Understanding the Difference

Not all mould infestations are created equal. The right approach depends on how far the mould has spread and where it's taken hold.

Light mould on tiles may seem harmless, but early cleaning is key.

Mild Mould

Mild cases are the most common and easiest to treat. You’re likely dealing with surface-level mould caused by condensation and steam from regular bathroom use.

Common signs include:

• Small patches or light black spots on tiles, grout, or glass

• No strong odour

• Appears after showers but doesn’t spread rapidly

  
  

These cases typically respond well to safe, at-home treatments.

Advanced Mould

When mould goes untreated for too long, or is caused by a structural issue, it becomes harder to manage.

Look for:

• Dark, widespread staining on ceilings, walls, or silicone

• A persistent musty smell

• Mould growing behind paint, plaster, or tile

In these cases, the mould has likely penetrated deeper layers of the material and will need more than surface scrubbing.

Safe and Effective DIY Mould Removal

If your mould is mild, here’s how to clean it properly using safe, non-toxic methods. What you’ll need:

• White vinegar (undiluted)

• Baking soda

• 3% hydrogen peroxide (optional, for stubborn stains)

• Protective gloves and face mask

• Spray bottle

• Scrub brush or old toothbrush

• Clean cloth or sponge

Step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare the area Open windows or turn on your exhaust fan for airflow. Always wear gloves and a mask to protect yourself from spores.
   

2. Spray the mould with vinegar Apply undiluted white vinegar to the mouldy surfaces and let it sit for 30 to 60 minutes. This helps kill mould at the root without using harsh chemicals.
   

3. Scrub with baking soda Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to create a paste. Use a toothbrush or scrub brush to work the paste into grout or tile joints.
   

4. Rinse and dry thoroughly Wipe away any residue using a damp cloth, and dry the surface completely. Mould thrives in moisture, so drying is crucial.
   

5. Treat stains with hydrogen peroxide Spray 3% hydrogen peroxide on any remaining stains, allow it to bubble for a few minutes, then wipe clean.
   

   Important: Never mix vinegar with bleach. Doing so produces toxic fumes that are harmful to breathe.

Read also: Not All Mould Is Equal: Identifying Common Household Moulds in Victoria

When to Call a Professional

If mould keeps returning, a professional inspection can reveal hidden moisture problems.

If mould has taken root in your bathroom and keeps returning no matter how often you clean, it's time to get professional help.

Mould remediation specialists have the tools and training to handle more serious infestations safely.

Professional help is recommended when:

• Mould covers more than one square metre

• It keeps returning after cleaning

• You see mould growing inside silicone or behind tiles

• There’s a strong, persistent musty smell

• You or your family are experiencing respiratory issues that improve when you leave the home
  

What professionals can do:

• Safely remove and replace affected materials such as silicone or plaster

• Use industrial-grade cleaning agents and mould inhibitors

• Identify the source of excess moisture, such as leaks or poor airflow

• Prevent cross-contamination or spore spread to other areas of the home

How to Prevent Mould from Coming Back

Removing mould is just the beginning. If you don’t address the underlying moisture issue, it’s likely to return.

Prevention is key to keeping your bathroom clean and mould-free in the long term.

Improve Ventilation

• Run an exhaust fan during and for 20 minutes after showers

• Open windows or leave the door ajar to let steam escape
  

Reduce Moisture

• Wipe down wet surfaces after every shower

• Use a squeegee on shower walls and glass screens

• Hang wet towels outside the bathroom to dry

Maintain and Repair

• Fix leaky taps, cracked tiles, or loose plumbing connections promptly

• Reseal joints and corners with mould-resistant silicone

• Use anti-mould paint on ceilings and high-moisture zones

Establish a regular cleaning routine

• Clean tiles and grout weekly with vinegar or a non-toxic anti-mould spray

• Keep surfaces dry and clutter-free to allow airflow

Read Also: The Hidden Health Risks of Mould: What You Need to Know

Final Thoughts

Bathroom mould can be frustrating, but it’s also preventable. Start by identifying the extent of the problem.

If it’s a small, surface-level issue, household remedies like vinegar and baking soda are often enough.

But if the mould is persistent, widespread, or returning quickly, it’s best to bring in a professional. With the right approach and consistent moisture control you can enjoy a mould-free bathroom that stays clean, safe, and healthy for the long term.