Vinegar Solution: Mix equal parts warm water and white distilled vinegar in a bowl or spray bottle. Vinegar kills mold spores effectively without destroying the rubber.
Scrub the Folds: Spray the solution into the crevices. Gently scrub inside the rubber folds using an old toothbrush or a soft-bristled brush to break up grime and black mold.
Wipe Clean: Use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe away all dirty residue from the inner and outer grooves of the gasket.
Treat Mildew Spots (Optional): For stubborn black staining, mix a paste of baking soda and water. Apply it to the spots, let it sit for 5 minutes, scrub lightly with a toothbrush, and wipe away with a damp cloth.
Dry Thoroughly: Moisture trapped inside the gasket folds leads to rapid re-growth. Wipe the gasket completely dry with a paper towel or dry cloth.
Maintenance Tip
To keep the rubber pliable, prevent cracking, and maintain a tight seal, rub a paper towel lightly coated with mineral oil or petroleum jelly (Vaseline) along the rubber seal once every few months.