Getting Rid Of Mold

How To Get Rid Of Mold On A Vinyl Bath Mat

A vinyl bath mat is literally a lifesaver in a slippery bathtub or shower, but the underside can end up moldy and covered in slippery soap scum in just a matter of days. When trying to keep the bathtub or shower clean and sanitary, this can become a real problem. Areas around the small suction cups that keep the vinyl mat in place end up turning black, and they inevitably become surrounded by slippery slime. Instead of throwing away a vinyl bath mat and buying stick-on shapes for traction, use the following easy way to get rid of mold while keeping it clean and sanitary. When proper care is taken after cleaning, it should never end up slimy or moldy again.

Precautionary Statement

To avoid potentially dangerous fumes, do not mix bleach with any other cleaning solution. Follow product label instructions for additional precautions, warnings, and instructions. Mold that penetrates the vinyl may cause permanent stains that cannot be removed.

Soak the Vinyl Mat in a Bleach and Water Solution

When trying to get rid of mold on a vinyl bath mat, soak it in a 50/50 solution of bleach and warm water. Allow the vinyl bath mat to soak for at least thirty minutes. In many cases, soaking it in a bleach solution is all that is necessary to dissolve away mold and any soap residue and grime.

After soaking the vinyl bath mat in a bleach and water solution, soak it in clear water for the same amount of time to fully remove any traces of bleach. Change the water at least once during the rinsing process.

Scrub Away the Slime

With more stubborn or imbedded mold and grunge, it might be necessary to scrub the vinyl bath mat to completely get rid of the stains and grime. In any case it is important to thoroughly clean around the vinyl suction cups. Use a soft bristle cleaning brush or a scrub sponge to thoroughly clean the back of the vinyl bath mat after it has been soaked in bleach water and thoroughly rinsed.

Use baking soda and water to clean the front and back of the bath mat after the bleach has been rinsed away. If the mold did not permanently stain the vinyl bath mat, it should be clean and ready to use.

Store the Bath Mat Properly After Use

Mold grows in damp places, and to prevent mold from forming on a vinyl bath mat, it is important to remove it from the floor of the bathtub or shower in between uses. Simply pull it up, and rinse it with hot water before laying it, suction side up, on the edge of the tub or over the shower rod. Mold and soap residue should never be a problem again!