A Sparkling Clean: The Ultimate Guide to Cleaning Your Shower

A refreshing shower can be the perfect start or end to your day, but over time, soap scum, mold, and grime can accumulate, making your shower less inviting. Regular cleaning not only ensures a hygienic environment but also prolongs the life of your shower. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to clean your shower thoroughly, leaving it gleaming and inviting.

And don’t forget, when Aunt Betty comes to visit she will be checking it out!

Gather Your Supplies

Before you start, gather the necessary cleaning supplies. You’ll need:

  • White vinegar
  • Baking soda
  • Dish soap
  • Water
  • Spray bottle
  • Old toothbrush or scrub brush
  • Microfiber cloth or sponge
  • Rubber gloves
  • Bucket or container for rinsing. If your shower has a hand held shower head addition, this really makes rinsing easy, or washing your dog.

You may want to use something stronger initially like Kaboom or Lime Away. Use a sponge with one side is a scrub pad to agitate the soap scum. Remember to ventilate and be aware that the bottom of shower may be slippery.

Lay a towel down in front of the tub/shower to catch splashes or drips.

Remove Items and Ventilate

Take out any shampoos, soaps, or shower accessories. Proper ventilation is essential to prevent inhaling fumes from cleaning agents, so turn on the exhaust fan or open a window.

Pre-Treat Grout and Tiles

Spray the grout and tiles with a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes to loosen dirt and mold. For stubborn grout stains, use a mixture of water and baking soda to create a paste. Apply it to the grout, let it sit, then scrub with an old toothbrush.

Clean Glass Shower Doors

For glass shower doors, mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray the solution on the doors and let it sit for a few minutes. Scrub gently with a non-abrasive sponge or microfiber cloth. Rinse thoroughly to remove any residue.

wet hands in shower

Clean Shower Tiles and Walls

Mix equal parts water and dish soap in a spray bottle. Spray the tiles and walls generously, focusing on areas with visible soap scum or mold. Let the solution sit for a few minutes. Use a scrub brush or sponge to clean the surfaces thoroughly. For stubborn stains, a baking soda paste (baking soda and water) can be applied and scrubbed gently.

Clean the Shower Head

If your showerhead is clogged with mineral deposits, remove it and soak it in a bowl of equal parts water and vinegar for a few hours. Scrub with an old toothbrush to remove any remaining deposits.

Rinse and Dry

Thoroughly rinse all surfaces with water to remove cleaning residue. Use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to wipe down the tiles, glass, and fixtures. Proper drying prevents the formation of new mold and soap scum.

Preventive Measures

To keep your shower clean longer, consider using a squeegee after each shower to remove excess water from the walls and glass. Additionally, use a daily shower spray to inhibit the growth of mold and mildew.

In Conclusion

A clean shower not only enhances your bathroom’s appearance but also promotes a healthier living environment. By following these steps and incorporating regular maintenance into your routine, you can enjoy a sparkling clean shower that invigorates your senses every time you step in. Happy cleaning!