How to Clean Yellowed Cultured Marble Shower Walls
Cultured marble is a popular choice for shower walls due to its durability, water resistance, and beautiful appearance. However, over time, cultured marble can become yellowed and discolored, diminishing its aesthetic appeal. Fortunately, cleaning yellowed cultured marble is a relatively straightforward process that can restore its shine. Here's a step-by-step guide to get you started:
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Before you begin, ensure you have the following materials:
- Baking soda: A natural abrasive that helps to remove stains and grime.
- White vinegar: A natural disinfectant and cleaning agent.
- Hydrogen peroxide: A bleaching agent that helps to remove yellowing.
- Soft cloth or sponge: To apply cleaning agents and scrub the surface.
- Bucket: To mix cleaning solutions.
- Rubber gloves: To protect your hands.
- Protective eyewear: To shield your eyes from splashes.
Step 2: Prepare the Shower Walls
- Clear the shower: Remove any shower accessories like soap dishes, shampoo bottles, and showerheads.
- Pre-clean the shower: If the walls are heavily soiled, use a mild soap and water solution to pre-clean the surface.
- Dry the walls: Wipe down the walls thoroughly with a clean cloth to remove any excess water.
Step 3: Apply the Cleaning Solution
- Mix the cleaning solution: In a bucket, combine equal parts baking soda, white vinegar, and hydrogen peroxide.
- Apply the solution: Using a soft cloth or sponge, apply the cleaning solution to the yellowed areas of the shower walls.
- Scrub gently: Use a gentle back-and-forth motion to scrub the surface. Avoid using harsh scrubbing tools that could scratch the cultured marble.
Step 4: Let the Solution Sit
- Allow the solution to sit: Let the cleaning solution sit on the walls for 15-20 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly: After the allotted time, rinse the walls thoroughly with water to remove any residue.
Step 5: Dry and Inspect
- Dry the walls: Wipe the shower walls dry with a clean cloth.
- Inspect the results: Inspect the walls closely to check if the yellowing has been removed. If not, repeat steps 3-4.
Additional Tips
- Test the solution: Before applying the cleaning solution to the entire shower, test it on a small inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn't damage the cultured marble.
- Use a sealant: Once you've cleaned the shower walls, apply a sealant to help protect the surface and prevent future yellowing.
- Regular cleaning: To prevent yellowing, clean your shower walls regularly with a mild soap and water solution.
Note: Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the surface of the cultured marble.
By following these steps, you can effectively clean yellowed cultured marble shower walls and restore their original beauty. Remember to always wear protective gear and test the cleaning solution before applying it to the entire surface.
