The Ultimate Guide to Removing and Replacing Old Silicone Sealant in Your Bathroom

The Ultimate Guide to Removing and Replacing Old Silicone Sealant in Your Bathroom

8th Jul 2025

Silicone sealant plays a vital role in protecting your bathroom from leaks. Over time, though, it can become cracked, discoloured, or mouldy – and when that happens, knowing how to remove silicone sealant properly is essential.

Whether you're planning a complete bathroom renovation or need to replace worn-out sealant that's seen better days, we'll walk you through the steps to remove bathroom sealant and apply a new layer without the hassle. Plus, tips and tricks from Brian Toward, CEO here at Wholesale Domestic.

Contents

When might you need to remove bathroom sealant?

Over time, bathroom sealant can start to show its age. Discoloured, cracked, shrinking, or even mouldy sealant are all signs that it's time for a refresh, but you may also need to remove your bathroom sealant if you're replacing your bath or shower, or if the old sealant wasn't applied properly in the first place.

Brian explains: "Sealant isn't something you usually think about until it's a problem. But once you notice cracks or mould creeping in, it's important to act quickly to prevent water damage."

"Generally, sealant should last around five years if it's well maintained, but that can vary depending on the moisture levels in your bathroom and how much use it gets.” 

"If you spot any signs of wear, it's best not to wait – removing old silicone sealant and replacing it can save you a lot of trouble down the line. If you put off replacing your silicone, you might notice water damage on the wall or floor around the bath or shower enclosure, as water can easily seep through over time."

What you’ll need

Removing silicone sealant might seem intimidating, but with the right tools, it's much easier than you'd expect. Here's what you'll need to get the job done:

  • Sealant softener – Softens old silicone for easier removal.
  • Sharp knife or utility blade – To carefully cut along the sealant edges.
  • Plastic scraper or sealant removal tool – Helps lift and remove sealant without damaging surfaces.
  • Bathroom cleaning products – Mould remover and general cleaner for pre- and post-cleaning.
  • Cloth and scouring pad – For wiping and scrubbing away residue.
  • White spirit – Useful for removing stubborn sealant residue.
  • Washing up liquid – Used to smooth the fresh sealant after application.
  • New silicone sealant – To replace the old sealant and keep your bathroom watertight.
  • Mastic gun – For neat and even sealant application.

How to remove old bath and shower sealant in 5 steps

Removing old silicone sealant might seem like a big task, but with a bit of patience and the right approach, it's easy for anyone to do.

Whether you're wondering how to remove bath or shower sealant, or specifically how to remove silicone sealant from your shower tray, this step-by-step guide will help you get it done right the first time.

1. Cut the edges

The first step when removing silicone sealant is to carefully cut around the edges where the sealant meets the wall, bath, or shower tray. Make an incision along the sealant's edge using a sharp knife or utility blade.

Brian adds: "When cutting away old sealant, patience is key. Work slowly and carefully, making small cuts along the edges rather than trying to slice through it in one go. Keep a close eye on where you're cutting and how much pressure you're using to avoid accidentally scratching your surfaces."

2. Add a softening gel (optional)

After cutting the edges, an optional step is softening the old sealant to make removing it easier. This is especially helpful if the sealant has been in place for a long time or has hardened over the years.

Brian explains: "Using a softening gel takes the hard work out of removing older silicone. The gel seeps into the sealant and loosens its grip, so when you come to scrape it off, it should peel away much more easily. Just make sure to follow the product's instructions and give it enough time to work its magic before you start scraping."

3. Scrape away old sealant

Once the sealant has softened, it's time to gently scrape it off. Use a plastic scraper or a sealant removal tool to lift the sealant from the surface carefully.

"Take your time with this part, as rushing can lead to scratches or damage. Use gentle pressure and let the tool do the work, especially around tricky corners and edges. Be especially cautious when using metal tools, as they have a pointed tip that can easily scratch baths or tiles," Brian advises.

"Plastic scrapers are usually safer and just as effective if you work slowly. As you remove the sealant, keep wiping it away so you can see where you've been and what's left. Having patience here and working slowly really pays off in the long run."

4. Remove residue

After scraping away the bulk of the old sealant, you might notice a sticky residue left behind. Don't worry; this is normal and can be easily cleaned away.

Brian explains: "That silicone residue can be stubborn, but a slightly damp scouring pad usually does the trick to lift it off without damaging your surfaces. If some stickiness remains, dab a cloth with a little white spirit and gently rub the area to remove the last bits.”

“Just make sure you ventilate the room well when using white spirit and avoid using it on delicate surfaces like painted or varnished countertops, or natural stone like marble and limestone."

5. Clean the surface

Once you've removed the old silicone and cleared away any residue, it's important to thoroughly clean the area before applying any new sealant. While giving your bathroom a full, deep clean isn't necessary, it's worth removing any dust or lint that could stick to your new sealant.

"Cleaning the surface properly makes sure the new sealant sticks well and creates a fully watertight seal. Use a good bathroom cleaner and potentially an anti-mould spray to wipe down the area. Ensure you remove any lingering bits of old sealant, dust, or mould," Brian explains.

"And don't forget to let the surface dry completely before you start reapplying the sealant – even the slightest bit of moisture is a real no-go here. It can prevent the new silicone from curing properly."

How to replace bathroom sealant

Once you've removed the old sealant and cleaned the surface, it's time to apply a fresh layer to make your bathroom watertight again. Thankfully, this part is usually easier than removing the old stuff, and we've broken it down into three easy steps.

1. Clean the area thoroughly

Before you start applying silicone sealant, you'll need to make sure the surface is fully clean and dry. Dust, dirt, or leftover mould can prevent the sealant from sticking properly and might even shorten its lifespan.

Brian says: "The key is to take your time and give the area a good wipe-down with a suitable bathroom cleaner to remove any grime or mould. If you've had issues with mould on your old sealant, it's a good idea to use an anti-mould treatment spray to prevent it from coming back under the fresh sealant."

"You'll also need to make sure everything is fully dry before you apply the sealant. Silicone doesn't stick well to damp surfaces, and this can cause leaks or the sealant to peel away sooner than you'd like," he adds.

2. Reapply your sealant

Now that your surface is clean and dry, it's time to apply the new silicone sealant. Start by loading your sealant tube into a mastic gun, following the manufacturer's instructions carefully.

Brian advises: "Steady hands are your best friend when applying sealant. Work from one end of the bath or shower enclosure to the other, squeezing the trigger evenly to create a smooth, continuous line. Try to keep your hand movement consistent – that way, the sealant will look more professional."

"Once you've laid down the bead of sealant, mix up a solution of 50% washing-up liquid and 50% water. Dip a clean finger into this mixture, then run it gently along the sealant line to smooth it out and create a neat finish with a slight indentation. It might sound simple, but this step not only makes the sealant look neater but also helps it seal correctly, preventing leaks and mould from sneaking in," he adds.

3. Let it dry

Allowing your new sealant to dry properly is crucial to forming a strong, watertight barrier. While silicone sealant typically becomes touch dry within 30 minutes to an hour, it takes around 24 hours to cure fully.

Brian explains: "Avoid using your bath or shower during the curing period, which can be up to 24 hours – any moisture too soon can cause the sealant to fail or peel away, meaning you'll have to repeat the whole process.”

“Keep the bathroom well-ventilated to help speed up the drying process, and remember, a properly cured sealant keeps your bathroom leak-free and looking fresh for longer. To check if your sealant has fully dried, you can lightly touch the surface with a clean finger. If it feels solid and slightly tacky, it’s good to go."

Frequently asked questions

How do I dissolve silicone sealant?

If you're struggling with stubborn old silicone sealant, a specialist dissolving agent can help make the job easier. While it doesn't fully 'dissolve' the sealant, it softens it enough so you can scrape it away with less effort.

"Using a silicone dissolver is a great alternative to traditional removal methods,” says Brian. “You apply the product, let it sit according to the instructions, and it breaks down the sealant's structure, making it much easier to peel or scrape off. Just remember, you'll still need to do some manual work to clear all the softened sealant.”

Are sealant and caulk the same thing?

“No, sealant and caulk aren’t the same thing. Sealants tend to be more flexible and durable, which makes them ideal for wet areas like bathrooms. Caulk, on the other hand, is easier to apply but usually doesn't last as long in damp environments.”

“A lot of people get the two mixed up, but sealant is generally the better choice for bathrooms because it stands up to moisture without cracking or shrinking. Caulk works better in dry areas, like around skirting boards or trim."

How long does silicone sealant take to dry?

The time it takes for bathroom sealant to dry depends on the type of sealant you're using.

Silicone usually feels dry to the touch within 30 minutes to an hour. However, it actually takes around 24 hours to fully cure and form a watertight seal. During this timeframe, it's absolutely essential to avoid getting the sealant wet, as any moisture can weaken the bond and cause leaks.

Other types of sealants have different drying times. For example, acrylic sealants tend to dry faster but aren't as flexible or long-lasting in damp bathroom environments. Hybrid sealants combine the qualities of silicone and acrylic, often offering quicker drying times while maintaining durability.

Shop bathroom sealant at Wholesale Domestic

When it's time to refresh your bathroom, we've got everything you need to get the job done right at Wholesale Domestic. From high-quality sealants to the tools required for a smooth application, we've got you covered.

Or, if you're planning a full renovation, why not explore our wide range of bathtubs, shower enclosures, and basins? Whether you're tackling a simple repair or breathing new life into your bathroom, we have the products to make your vision a reality.

Need advice on waterproofing your bathroom? Our expert team is always on hand to offer guidance. Contact us today, or take a look at our blog for more how-to guides and inspiration.