Once the visibly damaged caulking and grout are removed, it’s time to clean the surrounding tiles and seams aggressively to eliminate any remaining surface growth. This step is crucial for setting up a durable, mold-resistant repair.

How to deep clean the area:

• Spray affected areas generously with a mold control product like Concrobium Mold Control or an equivalent non-bleach cleaner designed for porous and non-porous surfaces.
• Scrub thoroughly using abrasive cleaning pads. Focus on seams, grout lines, and any exposed surfaces where old materials were removed.
• Apply steady pressure to work the cleaner into the pores of the tile or grout area.
• Wipe down thoroughly with clean cloths or disposable towels.

Allow the area to air dry completely after cleaning. A fan can be used to speed up drying, but avoid blowing spores into other parts of the home if you haven’t finished cleaning.

Important: Never use bleach on porous surfaces like grout or caulk lines. While bleach can lighten staining, it often fails to fully kill mold roots and may leave the surface more vulnerable to regrowth.

After a deep clean, the shower or tub area should look visibly cleaner, smell neutral (not musty or chemical-laden), and feel ready for drying and repair steps.