How to Clean a Fiberglass Shower: 2 Easy Ways

A fiberglass shower is a popular choice for many homeowners due to its affordability, durability, and ease of installation. However, maintaining its shine can be a challenge, especially when soap scum, body oils, and hard water deposits begin to accumulate. Over time, these buildups can make your shower look dull and grimy. Fortunately, you can restore your fiberglass shower's original luster with just a few simple cleaning techniques. In this article, we'll explore two easy and effective ways to clean your fiberglass shower using common household products.

How Often Should You Clean a Fiberglass Shower?

To keep your fiberglass shower looking its best, it's essential to clean it regularly. A weekly cleaning routine will help prevent the buildup of soap scum and grime, making it easier to maintain. After each shower, take a minute to wipe down the walls with a squeegee or a towel to remove water and soil. This simple step can prevent the formation of stubborn stains and reduce the frequency of deep cleaning.

What to Avoid When Cleaning Fiberglass Showers

Fiberglass is a durable material, but it can be easily scratched or damaged if not cleaned properly. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, such as scrubbing powders, steel wool, or pumice stones, as these can leave scratches on the surface. Harsh chemicals like chlorine bleach and ammonia should also be avoided, as they can damage the resin used in fiberglass. Instead, opt for gentle, non-abrasive cleaning solutions that are safe for fiberglass.

Method 1: Cleaning with Baking Soda and Vinegar

Supplies Needed:

• Baking soda

• Distilled white vinegar

• Non-abrasive sponge

• Microfiber cloth

Steps:

1. Prepare the Shower: Begin by removing all bottles, soap dishes, and other accessories from the shower. Turn on the hot water and let it run for a few minutes to create steam. The steam will help loosen any grime and make cleaning easier.

2. Make the Cleaning Paste: In a small bowl, mix one cup of baking soda with one-fourth cup of distilled white vinegar. The mixture will foam up initially, but this reaction will subside after a few moments. You can double the recipe if you have a large shower stall.

3. Apply the Paste: Once the foaming has stopped, use a non-abrasive sponge to spread the paste onto the warm walls and floor of the shower. Be sure to cover all areas where soap scum and grime have accumulated.

4. Let It Sit: Allow the paste to sit on the surfaces for about 10 minutes. This gives the baking soda and vinegar time to break down the soap scum and dirt.

5. Rinse and Dry: After the paste has done its job, rinse the shower thoroughly with warm water. Use a microfiber cloth to dry the surfaces completely, leaving your shower clean and streak-free.

Method 2: Cleaning with Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda

Supplies Needed:

• Hydrogen peroxide

• Baking soda

• Non-abrasive sponge

• Microfiber cloth

Steps:

1. Steam the Shower: As with the first method, start by steaming the shower to loosen any grime. This will make the cleaning process more effective.

2. Mix the Cleaning Paste: In a small bowl, combine one cup of baking soda with one-fourth cup of hydrogen peroxide. Stir the mixture until it forms a thick paste.

3. Apply the Paste: Use a non-abrasive sponge to spread the paste onto the shower walls and floor. Focus on areas with heavy buildup or stains.

4. Let It Work: Allow the paste to sit for 15 to 30 minutes. The hydrogen peroxide will help to disinfect and brighten the surfaces, while the baking soda works to scrub away dirt and grime.

5. Rinse and Dry: Rinse the shower thoroughly with warm water, ensuring all the paste is removed. Use a microfiber cloth to dry the surfaces and reveal a sparkling clean shower.

Removing Tough Stains from a Fiberglass Shower

While regular cleaning will keep your shower looking great, you may encounter tough stains that require extra attention. Rust stains, for example, can form from metal containers left on the shower floor. To remove these stubborn stains, you can use a mixture of laundry borax and lemon juice.

Steps:

1. Make the Stain-Removing Paste: Mix borax and a small amount of lemon juice to create a paste.

2. Apply the Paste: Spread the paste over the stained area and let it sit for 15 minutes.

3. Wipe and Rinse: After the paste has worked its magic, wipe it away with a microfiber cloth and rinse the area thoroughly.

If you have sticky residue left by non-slip stickers or accessories, olive oil can be an effective solution. Soak a paper towel in olive oil and place it over the sticky area for at least 15 minutes. Use a plastic scraper or the edge of a credit card to gently remove the residue.

Additional Tips for Maintaining Your Fiberglass Shower

To prevent mold and mildew, it’s essential to keep your shower clean and dry. Always towel down the shower walls and floor after each use to remove moisture. Improving ventilation by using an exhaust fan or opening a window can also help prevent mold growth. If your bathroom lacks proper ventilation, consider using a dehumidifier to reduce moisture levels.

Bath mats with suction cups are useful for preventing slips, but they can also trap moisture and harbor bacteria. Wash them regularly and replace them every couple of years to avoid mold problems. Additionally, remember to clean shower caddies and nooks where mold and mildew tend to accumulate.

Once your fiberglass shower is clean, you can apply a coat of fiberglass boat wax to the walls for added protection. The wax will help repel water and prevent soap scum from sticking to the surfaces. However, never apply wax to the shower floor, as it can create a slippery and unsafe surface.

Conclusion

Cleaning a fiberglass shower doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these two simple methods, you can keep your shower sparkling clean and free from grime. Regular maintenance, combined with the right cleaning techniques, will help preserve the finish of your fiberglass shower, ensuring it stays looking new for years to come.

Remember to avoid harsh cleaners and abrasive tools to prevent damage, and always dry the shower after each use to prevent mold and mildew. With a little effort and the right products, your fiberglass shower will remain a shining centerpiece of your bathroom.

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