Ask Mrs. Clean: House Cleaning, Stain Removal and Organizing Tips

[keepinclean]

I've started my spring cleaning, and today I noticed mold on the seams of my windows. It's the 'caulk' (for lack of a better word) that seals the window to the frame of the walls, etc. I used a Q tip and SCRUBBED endlessly and the mold wouldn't budge. I'm going to try vinegar next, but is it possible that the mold has just seeped into the caulk and isn't just present on the surface? It's very annoying and looks horrid. Any help would be much appreciated! Thanks!

[mrscleannw]

Hello keepinclean.

Try using bleach water, about 1 capful to one glass of water. You can use a toothbrush to apply the mixture letting it sit about 5 minutes then rinse with water. You may need to repeat the process a few times.

You’ll also want to make sure there is a good seal to prevent mold. Check to see if the caulk is solid and does not have holes, missing pieces, or if the caulk is pulling away from the surface. If the caulking is not solid it would be a good idea to think about re-caulking the effected are.

You can call a professional or if you are comfortable doing this yourself you can cut the caulk away; using the proper utility knife, by cutting under both corners then peeling the caulk off (make sure to get any leftover pieces of caulk up). Use caution so you don’t scratch your painted walls or tiled surfaces.

Once the caulk is off, clean the area with bleach water and let it dry completely.

Reapply the caulk, look for a caulk that is mold and mildew resistant.

To apply the caulk run a small amount over the entire length of the area you are replacing the caulk. You can spread the caulk using your finger (dip you finger in a little water first) to smooth the caulk to a consistent shape or you can purchase a caulking tool for this.

Mrs. Clean