How to clean mould buildup around bathroom sink tap drain cover?

[MaxB]

Hi,

Had new bathroom installed about 8 months ago and have been regularly cleaning but have buildup of mold around chrome plate cover that I'm unable to remove. Have tried CLR with toothbrush and cloth, Bar Keepers Friend with toothbrush and cloth and have tried Kracher Steam Cleaner but still unable to remove this black mold as in photos.

How can I remove this black mold? 

Thanks

[Noyade]

Afternoon @MaxB 

Old eyes - but is the mould embedded in silicone?

[MaxB]

I suspect so, is it normal for there to be silicone there?

As I haven't had this problem before with other taps.

[MitchellMc]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @MaxB. It's terrific to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about removing mould.

I suspect @Noyade is onto something there. This is probably silicone that has squeezed out onto the bath's surface. If it were mould on the bath surface, I see no reason why your methods wouldn't have worked. It wouldn't be unusual for the installer to run silicone under the bath waste before installing.

I'd recommend trying to remove the silicone on the bath surface. It's typically fairly soft, and you should be able to scrape it away, but you'll need to use tools that won't scratch or damage the bath's surface. I'd recommend trying a plastic scraper. While using it, ensure you don't press too hard, or it could impart red masks on the white surface.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell
 

[MaxB]

Thanks Mitchell. Will give it a go on weekend.

Also have noticed I may have scratched the plate up a bit while scrubbing with brush, what would you recommend to remove or improve appearance of these scratches?

Thanks

[MitchellMc]

You could try some Autosol 75ml Chrome And Metal Polish @MaxB.

Mitchell

[MaxB]

Thanks Mitchell