How to Clean a Shower Like a Pro
Is there anything more satisfying than a sparkling clean shower? Perhaps not, but reaching that level of cleanliness can sometimes feel like a daunting task.
Don’t worry, though; this comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of how to clean your shower, helping you transform it into a pristine and inviting space.
How to Clean a Shower: A Comprehensive Guide
Shower Floor, Shower Head, and Glass Shower Doors
Step 1: Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
Before you start, ensure you have all the necessary cleaning supplies on hand. Here’s a list of what you might need:
- Non-abrasive, all-purpose bathroom cleaner
- Baking soda
- Vinegar
- Scrubbing brush or a non-scratch scrub sponge
- Spray bottle
- Rubber gloves
- Microfiber cloth or towel
Step 2: Clear Out Your Shower
Begin by removing all products, such as shampoo, conditioner, soap, and shower gels, from the shower. Take a moment to clean these items too, wiping off any residue before placing them aside.
Step 3: Pre-treat the Shower
A pre-treatment can help dissolve soap scum and hard water stains. An effective and natural way to do this is by using a solution of vinegar and water. Fill a spray bottle with equal parts vinegar and warm water, then spray this solution liberally over the shower walls and floor.
Step 4: Apply Your Bathroom Cleaner
After letting the vinegar solution sit for a few minutes, apply your all-purpose bathroom cleaner. Be sure to read the instructions on the cleaner bottle. Some products need to sit for a few minutes to work effectively.
Step 5: Scrub Away!
It’s time to put some elbow grease into action. Use a scrubbing brush or non-scratch scrub sponge to scrub your shower surfaces thoroughly. Pay particular attention to corners, grout lines, and any areas with visible staining or soap scum build-up.
Step 6: Rinse and Dry
Once you’ve scrubbed every inch, it’s time to rinse. Use your showerhead or a bucket of water to rinse the shower walls and floor, ensuring all cleaning product residue is gone. To prevent water spots and mildew growth, dry the surfaces with a microfiber cloth or towel.
Step 7: Deep Clean Your Showerhead
Your showerhead can harbor mineral deposits and bacteria over time. To clean it, fill a plastic bag with vinegar, immerse the showerhead in it, and secure the bag around the shower arm with a rubber band or twist tie. Let it soak for a few hours, then remove and gently scrub with an old toothbrush.
Step 8: Maintain Regular Cleaning
Regular cleaning reduces the need for deep-cleaning sessions. Quick daily actions, like squeegeeing the walls after each use and leaving the shower door open for ventilation, can prevent soap scum and mildew build-up.
Step 9: Cleaning the Shower Door or Curtain
If you have a glass shower door, over time it might develop hard water stains and soap scum. These can be tackled using a paste of baking soda and vinegar. Apply the paste onto the stains and gently scrub using a non-scratch scrub sponge. Once finished, rinse with warm water and dry with a microfiber cloth.
Shower curtains and liners can collect soap scum and mildew too. Most shower curtains are machine washable, but always check the care label. If you’re dealing with a plastic liner, it can be soaked in a bathtub filled with warm water and two cups of vinegar. After soaking, scrub off any remaining residue, rinse, and hang to dry.
Step 10: Tackle the Grout
Grout can be one of the most challenging parts of the shower to clean due to its porous nature. A baking soda and water paste is a natural solution for this. Apply the paste onto the grout, let it sit for a few minutes, and then scrub with an old toothbrush. Once the grout is clean, rinse with warm water. If the grout remains discolored, you might consider a grout-renewal product or a professional cleaning service.
Step 11: Keep Your Tools Clean
Finally, don’t forget about your cleaning tools. Rinse your brushes and sponges thoroughly and allow them to dry completely between uses to prevent mildew growth. Clean spray bottles with warm soapy water, and wash microfiber cloths and towels regularly.
Conclusion
Natural Stone, Bathroom Fan, and Hot Water
A clean shower can transform your bathroom into a true sanctuary, offering a refreshing escape at the end of a long day or a reviving wake-up call in the morning. By following this comprehensive guide on how to clean your shower, you’ve not only learned about tackling grime and soap scum but also the importance of maintaining your shower’s cleanliness regularly.
Understanding the material of your shower helps in its effective cleaning. If you have a fiberglass shower, it’s best to use a soft bristle brush to avoid scratching the surface. A mild detergent such as dish soap can work wonders without causing damage. A detachable or handheld shower head comes in handy to rinse off the soap after scrubbing the shower wall.
Detachable Shower Head
Glass doors require a bit more finesse to clean. Using a squeegee after every shower helps reduce water spots. For a deep clean, wipe the doors with a soft cloth and a mixture of vinegar and water. If your shower wall has tiles, occasional use of a bleach solution can help maintain its shine, but remember to rinse thoroughly after. Always remember to wear rubber gloves when using chlorine bleach for your safety. With these added tips, your shower maintenance routine can be tailored to your shower’s unique needs, ensuring a perfectly clean and inviting space.
Remember, consistent upkeep is not only about preserving a sparkling bathroom environment; it’s also about creating a healthier space for you and your family. By using the right tools and techniques, you can say goodbye to stubborn dirt and say hello to a clean, fresh, and invigorating shower experience.
So, roll up your sleeves and get started. You’ll reap the rewards of your efforts every time you step into your gleaming, freshly cleaned shower!
