Whether on clothing, tiles, glass or hands, it’s possible to remove a silicone stain. It’s also important to replace your seals around the sink, basin, bath or shower when they start to blacken.

Removing a silicone seal around a sanitary element

Silicone gaskets ensure a watertight seal around sanitary fixtures such as washbasins, sinks, bathtubs and showers.  It’s important to clean them thoroughly when they start to blacken. They can also be replaced for a healthier home. Silicone gaskets are very easy to remove. Here’s how:

  • Put on gloves to protect your hands.
  • Take a cutter or razor blade.
  • Position the cutter blade flat against the wall without damaging it.
  • Move forward slowly to remove the old joint, pulling on it with your other hand.
  • If pieces don’t come off, lightly scrape with the cutter.
  • To remove deposits, soak a cloth in white spirit and rub. The white spirit will dissolve any remaining sealant. You can also replace the white spirit with white vinegar, but you’ll have to scrub a little harder!
  • Once the silicone sealant has been completely removed, clean the surfaces thoroughly with washing-up liquid and leave to dry.

Removing silicone from glass or tiles

To remove silicone from glass or tiles without scratching the surface, simply scrape off excess silicone with a razor blade or cutter. You can also use the same scraper you use to clean your ceramic hob. Then, to remove silicone residues, dab the surface with a cloth soaked in acetone, methylated spirits or white spirit. It’s advisable to put on gloves beforehand, as the products used here are aggressive to the skin.

Silicone stains on clothing

Silicone stains on fabrics are easy to remove. Here are three tips:

  • Soften the silicone with a hair dryer for 30 seconds and remove with a teaspoon. Then put the garment in the washing machine.
  • Apply paper towel to the silicone stain and iron for a few seconds. The silicone must not melt into the fibers.
  • If the garment cannot withstand the heat, rub the silicone with a nail file or abrasive paper. If residue remains, wet a cloth with acetone, dab onto the stain and rinse thoroughly. Acetone can be replaced by methylated spirits or F spirits.

How do I remove silicone sealant from my hands?

Fresh silicone is quite sticky. It needs to be removed within 24 hours.

  • Rub the silicone with a paper towel.
  • Repeat the operation, replacing the paper towel with a plastic bag or garbage can liner.
  • Wash hands and dry thoroughly.
  • If residues persist, heat the putty with a hairdryer set to minimum temperature. Acetone is just as effective, but more dangerous for the skin.