A shower is the place that you turn to for hygiene and cleanliness, so who wants an unclean shower? We are providing tips for the most effective ways to clean each aspect of your shower, specific to the material that it is composed of.

 

Before You Start

Before you dive into scrubbing walls, you want to prepare your shower. Start by taking everything out. You will need a completely clear space to clean so you do not miss any spots. This is also a great opportunity to throw away any empty bottles that may be cluttering the shower.

 

Ceramic Shower

Ceramic showers are very common and welcome a myriad of different cleaning products. However, for the more stubborn stains, soap scum, and grime, there is a simple and effective solution: mix one cup of warm water, two cups of white vinegar, and one teaspoon of a vegetable-based dishwashing soap in a spray bottle. Spray the solution on the shower walls and let it sit for 15 minutes. After enough time has passed, use a sponge to scrub off any stains, soap scum, or grime. Once you feel that the job is done, just rinse the solution off thoroughly with water.

Solid Surface Shower

With solid surface showers, cleaning and upkeep is very simple. Solid surface materials are nonporous, which enhances their stain-resistance and ability to stay clean. Without crevices for dirt and grime to wedge into, this material is able to maintain incredible hygiene. In addition, solid surface wall panels are typically installed without the use of grout that is required when placing regular tile. Without grout, soap scum, calcium buildup, grime, and mildew cannot form between edges. Solid surface materials can be cleaned with water and regular shower-approved household cleaners. We do, however, recommend that you stick with nonabrasive cleaners for smooth surface finishes. When cleaning showers that have a matte finish, it is safe to use a mild abrasive cleaner. If you have any questions about your cleaner, you can test it in a small, inconspicuous spot to ensure that the chemicals will not damage the shower surface. The setting time for the cleaner varies by product, so be sure to read the label. Once you have scrubbed the surface with a sponge, use water to rinse the cleaner off.

 

Natural Stone Shower

Natural stone showers, although stunning, require a bit more upkeep than some competing shower materials do. If you have a natural stone shower, be sure to only clean with a non-acidic product, designed for natural stone. Do not be quick to trust common household cleaning products because they typically contain ammonia or acids that can cause permanent damage to stone. Follow the directions listed on the stone cleaner of your choice, as setting time may vary. Once the walls are cleaned, thoroughly rinse off the cleaner with water. In order to prevent water spots, mildew, and dulling of the stone, be sure to remove excess water on the walls with a squeegee or towel after each use. Natural stone that is constantly wet creates an inviting environment for mold and mildew to grow.

 

Quartz Shower

like natural stone, highly acidic or alkaline cleaning products should be avoided with quartz. For quartz showers, we recommend using water mixed with a mild detergent or soap. Let the solution sit for 10-20 minutes while you continue with the remainder of your bathroom cleaning. Use a sponge with small, circular motions to scrub down the shower walls. When the job is complete, thoroughly rinse the walls off with water.

 

Shower Head

Cleaning the shower head can be taxing, so we are giving tips for the best ways to tackle this task. Remove the shower head and place it into a plastic bag or bowl to soak in distilled vinegar. Tightly tie off the bag or cover the bowl while it soaks. If the shower head is extremely encrusted, add a spoonful of bicarbonate of soda to the distilled vinegar. Leave it set in the solution for an hour. When you take the shower head out, reattach it and turn the shower on. The flow should be restored and you will have a shining shower head.

 

Grout

Grout can easily be overlooked; however, it is very important in maintaining a hygienic shower. To clean grout, it is recommended that you use a toothbrush or soft nylon brush to effectively clean between each tile. Be sure to apply a non-abrasive, stone-safe grout cleaner to avoid causing damage to the shower. You can also use a mixture of half water and half white vinegar as a cleaner. Another option is to use a bleach pen that is approved for stone. Following these instructions will thoroughly eliminate grime and mildew, helping you not to miss any spots. When you have finished scrubbing, rinse the cleaner off with water. After rinsing, dry the grout with a fresh towel to prevent mold and mildew growth.

 

Glass Shower Doors

Soap scum and grime tends to build up on glass shower doors. It can easily be removed by mixing half white vinegar with half grease-fighting dish soap in a spray bottle. Generously spray the glass door and close it for 20-30 minutes to allow the solution to set. After it has set, use a cloth or sponge to scrub the glass and tend to any stubborn spots. Rinse the solution off and then dry the doors off with a soft, fresh towel. Your glass shower doors should sparkle when you are finished.

Shower Curtain

Although taking the time to dry off your shower walls after each use is extremely helpful, it does not entirely prevent condensation from forming in the bathroom. This creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew to form, and the shower curtain is at heightened risk. Fortunately, there are ways to restore your shower curtain without having to purchase a new one. Once a week, throw your shower curtain in the washing machine. Add half a cup of bicarbonate of soda to your washing powder and put it on a 30ºC wash. Just before the rinse cycle, add half a cup of white vinegar as well. It is important that you allow the curtain to dry thoroughly before returning it to the bathroom. Doing this every week will keep your shower curtain looking beautiful for a long time; therefore, saving you money on purchasing a new one.

 

Using these tips will create a shower to shine! Nobody wants to step into a shower full of soap scum, mildew, and grime. Keep your shower hygeinic and avoid causing any damage to the surface by following the above tips.