How To Remove Mold From Rubber
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Things Needed
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Rubber gloves
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Goggles
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N95 face mask (optional)
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Half-gallon empty spray bottle
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White distilled vinegar
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Stiff-bristled scrub brush
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Household bleach
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Measuring cups
Tip
If possible, allow the rubber item to dry in bright sunlight. Rub distilled white vinegar regularly onto the surface of the rubber item to prevent the mold from coming back.
Warning
Always use gloves and eye protection when working with vinegar or bleach. Depending on the extent of the mold, you may also need to wear an N95 face mask to avoid inhaling mold spores. These masks are available at home supply and hardware stores. Do not mix vinegar and bleach under any circumstances, as this will produce toxic chlorine gas. Always use bleach in a well-ventilated area. Use of bleach may discolor or damage the rubber material. When in doubt, use vinegar instead.
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When mold forms on rubber, it's important to kill and remove it quickly to prevent long-term damage. Because rubber is porous, the mold may penetrate the surface of the rubber. Eventually, this can cause the rubber to fall apart. Both vinegar and bleach are effective at killing mold. Bleach kills mold faster, but may discolor or weaken the rubber. Vinegar takes several hours to kill the mold, but will not damage the rubber.
Vinegar
Step 1
Protect your skin and eyes with rubber gloves and goggles.
Step 2
Fill a clean, half-gallon spray bottle with white distilled vinegar. Screw on the lid.
Step 3
Spray the mold with the vinegar, and let the vinegar saturate the mold for two to four hours.
Step 4
Rinse the rubber with water, and dry it thoroughly.
Bleach
Step 1
Protect your skin and eyes with rubber gloves and goggles.
Step 2
Mix one part bleach with four parts water in a clean, half-gallon spray bottle. Screw on the lid.
Step 3
Spray the mold with the bleach. It should begin to kill the mold instantly. Leave the bleach on the rubber for at least 15 minutes.
Step 4
Scrub the mold away with the brush.
Step 5
Rinse the rubber clean with water, and dry it thoroughly.