How to safely remove black mold from a bathtub?« Back to Previous Page

Our bathroom in the Jumeirah Park villa doesn't have a window and lately, especially after the kids' showers, the musty smell is really strong. I just pulled back the silicone sealant around the bathtub and found a bunch of black mold growing underneath it. My youngest has been having allergy-like sniffles for a couple of weeks now and I'm starting to worry it's connected. What's the most effective and kid-safe way to get rid of this for good?
Posted by Francesca Ferrari
Asked on March 16, 2026 7:37 pm
The situation you describe is a classic and serious case of concealed mold growth, exacerbated by the high humidity inherent to Dubai's climate. The musty odor and the discovery of black mold under the silicone sealant confirm a significant moisture issue, likely due to condensation from showers and the lack of ventilation. The persistent sniffles in a child are a major red flag and should be considered a potential health symptom related to mold exposure.

For a safe and permanent remediation, a simple surface clean is insufficient. The mold's root system (hyphae) penetrates porous surfaces like grout and even the substrate behind the tiles. The most effective and kid-safe protocol involves containment and removal.

First, isolate the area. The bathroom should be sealed off with plastic sheeting to prevent cross-contamination of spores into other living spaces. You and your family, especially the children, should avoid using this bathroom during the process. The existing silicone sealant and any compromised grout must be completely mechanically removed and discarded. All surfaces must then be treated with an EPA-approved, non-toxic fungicidal cleaner, specifically designed for mold remediation, to kill the remaining hyphae. After treatment, all surfaces must be thoroughly HEPA-vacuumed and wiped down. The final, critical step is a professional reapplication of a high-quality, mold-resistant silicone sealant.

Given the extent of hidden growth and the health symptoms present, this is not a DIY project. Improper handling can aerosolize a high concentration of spores, worsening the indoor air quality and health risks. We strongly recommend a professional inspection and remediation. Our certified technicians at Saniservice use industrial-grade HEPA filtration units (air scrubbers) for containment, professional-grade antimicrobials, and follow strict protocols to ensure the mold is removed permanently and safely. For a consultation, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 19, 2026 12:09 pm