How to Remove Caulk from Your Bathroom

Caulk is used extensively in the bathroom to prevent moisture from working its way underneath bathroom surfaces. Over time, however, you may notice that the caulk becomes discolored, damaged, or no longer adheres to the area where it was installed. If you notice any of these problems, plan on removing the caulk and recaulking the area.

Step 1: Remove as much caulk as you can with your hands. If you are removing caulk that is partially attached to the drywall, create a score line between the caulk and the drywall to avoid damaging the area.

Step 2: For stubborn areas, cut away the caulk from both sides using the utility blade to remove the bulk of the caulk.

Step 3: Scrape away any remaining caulk using a loose razor blade at a 30 degree angle. A higher angle may scratch the surface of the bathroom.

Step 4: Remove any remaining residue from the caulk with fine steel wool and mineral spirits.

Step 5: Clean the areas where you removed the caulk with the appropriate bathroom cleanser to remove any mineral spirit residue. Mineral spirits will prevent the caulk from adhering, so be sure the area is cleaned and dried thoroughly before you attempt to apply more caulk.

With the old caulk removed, recaulk the entire bathroom using a silicone caulk made for bathroom and kitchen use. It usually comes in both clear and white varieties, but avoid using white unless the items in your bathroom will match. Otherwise it will just draw needless attention to the caulk.

When applying new caulk, cut the tube of caulk at a 45 degree angle so a hole about 3/8 inch in diameter is created. Then begin caulking every surface where two materials meet, taking the time to smooth out any imperfections in the bead of caulk as you go. Some common places to miss that you should check are around bathtub faucets and shower heads, where the toilet meets the floor, and where the bathtub meets the floor.