Silicone molds are a favorite among resin artists and bakers alike—but once they start picking up dust, glitter, or stubborn resin stains, keeping them clean becomes a real challenge. Whether you’re casting epoxy or baking brownies, this guide walks you through the best methods to clean silicone molds and extend their lifespan.
Why Cleaning Matters for Silicone Molds
Dirty molds can lead to surface defects, sticky residues, or even failed casts.
Dust, pet hair, leftover resin, or even fingerprints can affect your next pour.
For food-grade molds, leftover oils or scents can attract bacteria or ruin flavor.
How to Clean Silicone Molds — Step by Step
1. Pre-clean With Tape or Tack
Before touching water or soap, try this:
Packing tape: Lightly press onto the mold to lift up hairs, glitter, or resin dust.
Blu-Tack or adhesive putty: Perfect for reaching fine crevices and textured areas.
2. Soak and Wash With Warm Soapy Water
This is the safest method for both resin and food molds:
Fill a bowl or sink with warm water and a few drops of dish soap.
Let the mold soak for 20–30 minutes.
Use a soft sponge or your fingers to gently clean all surfaces. Avoid anything abrasive.
Rinse thoroughly and air dry completely.
3. Freeze to Remove Hardened Residue
If you have leftover cured resin or pigment:
Pop the mold into the freezer for about 1 hour.
Gently bend or twist the mold to crack the residue loose.
Use a plastic scraper or soft tool to nudge it out.
4. Use Alcohol or Acetone—With Caution
For dye stains or uncured resin:
Dab a lint-free cloth with isopropyl alcohol (IPA) or acetone.
Gently wipe the affected area.
Rinse thoroughly afterward to avoid long-term mold damage.
Extra Tips for Food-Grade Silicone Molds
Safe to put in the top rack of the dishwasher.
To remove smells or oils, make a baking soda paste (baking soda + water), scrub gently, rinse well.
Dry completely before storing.
How to Store Silicone Molds Properly
Make sure molds are 100% dry before storing.
Keep them in sealed bags or containers to avoid dust.
Store flat or upright—don’t stack or fold.
Avoid direct sunlight or high heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I clean silicone molds in the dishwasher?
Q2: What if there’s uncured resin stuck inside?
Scrape out as much as possible, then wipe with IPA or acetone, followed by a rinse.
Q3: My mold smells or looks moldy—what should I do?
Try baking soda paste or oven-bake the mold (if heat-safe) at 200°C for 10 minutes to kill bacteria.
Q4: Why do my molds keep getting dusty?
Store them covered. Tape and tack can remove dust without washing every time.
Final Thoughts
Keeping silicone molds clean isn’t about scrubbing harder—it’s about knowing what works. A combination of low-abrasion cleaning, preventative storage, and quick fixes (like tape or freezing) can make your molds last longer and your results look better.
