How to Clean Tile Shower Walls and Floor
Keeping your tile shower walls and floor clean and sparkling can be a challenge, especially with the constant exposure to water and soap scum. But don't worry, with the right cleaning supplies and a little elbow grease, you can have a gleaming shower in no time. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Gather Your Supplies:
- Cleaning solution: You can use a commercial tile cleaner, a DIY solution of white vinegar and water (1:1 ratio), or baking soda paste.
- Microfiber cloth: This type of cloth is gentle on tile and effectively picks up dirt and grime.
- Scrub brush: For stubborn stains and grout lines.
- Squeegee: To remove excess water and prevent water spots.
- Bucket: For holding your cleaning solution.
- Gloves: Protect your hands from harsh chemicals.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide:
- Pre-clean: Use a handheld showerhead or a bucket of water to rinse the walls and floor, removing loose dirt and debris.
- Apply cleaning solution: Depending on your chosen cleaning solution, follow the instructions for application. For vinegar and water, spray it directly on the tile and grout. For baking soda paste, mix baking soda with a small amount of water to form a paste and apply it to the grout lines using an old toothbrush.
- Scrub: Use a scrub brush to work the cleaning solution into the tile and grout, paying extra attention to areas with heavy soap scum or mildew. For stubborn stains, you can let the cleaning solution sit for a few minutes before scrubbing.
- Rinse: Thoroughly rinse the tile and grout with clean water to remove any cleaning solution residue.
- Dry: Use a squeegee to wipe down the walls and floor, removing excess water. This helps prevent water spots from forming. Alternatively, you can use a microfiber cloth to dry the surfaces.
- Clean the grout: For a truly clean shower, give the grout lines a final scrub with a toothbrush and your chosen cleaning solution.
- Enjoy your sparkling shower: Step back and admire your clean and gleaming shower!
Tips for Keeping Your Shower Clean:
- Clean regularly: A quick wipe down after each shower can help prevent grime buildup and make deep cleaning easier.
- Use a shower squeegee: Squeegeeing the walls after each shower removes excess water and prevents hard water stains.
- Ventilate your shower: Opening a window or using a fan after showering helps prevent mold and mildew growth.
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Strong cleaners can damage the tile and grout over time. Opt for gentler cleaning solutions.
By following these tips and cleaning your tile shower walls and floor regularly, you can keep your shower looking its best and enjoy a clean and refreshing shower experience.
