The Ultimate Guide To Cleaning Fiberglass Shower Pans

Keeping a fiberglass shower pan clean can be a challenge due to its susceptibility to soap scum, mildew, limescale, rust, and stains from various products. However, with the right techniques and products, it is possible to restore it to its original shine. Here are some tips and tricks to effectively clean your fiberglass shower pan.

Use a vinegar solution

To clean a fiberglass shower pan using a vinegar solution, start by mixing half a cup of vinegar with a gallon of water. Stir the solution to ensure that it is evenly mixed.

Next, apply the vinegar solution to a damp, non-abrasive sponge. You can either spray the solution onto the sponge or dunk the sponge in it.

Gently rub the surface of the shower pan using side-to-side motions to lift dirt and residue. Be sure to use a gentle touch to avoid scratching the fiberglass. Periodically clean your sponge by squeezing it out into a sink, then rewetting it and applying more cleaning solution.

After scrubbing the entire pan, turn on the water to wash out the cleaning solution. If necessary, use a new sponge to wipe up any remaining solution.

For a heavier clean, apply the vinegar solution to the pan and let it sit for about an hour before rinsing. This will give the solution more time to break down dirt and stains.

If you're dealing with tough stains, you can also create a paste using baking soda and vinegar. Spread the paste on the warm surface of the shower pan and let it sit for about 10 minutes before rinsing.

By using a vinegar solution and following these steps, you can effectively clean and maintain your fiberglass shower pan.

Non-abrasive sponges only

To clean a fiberglass shower pan, it is important to use non-abrasive sponges only. This is because fiberglass is easily scratched or discolored by abrasive cleaning supplies.

Firstly, you will need to pick a cleaning solution. You can use a vinegar solution, a baking soda mix, an all-purpose or bathroom cleaner, or a Magic Eraser.

If you opt for a vinegar solution, mix half a cup of vinegar with a gallon of water. For a baking soda mix, combine half a cup of baking soda with a few tablespoons of water until it forms a paste. You can also add vinegar and dishwashing liquid to this mix for a stronger solution.

Once you have your chosen cleaning solution, wet a non-abrasive sponge with warm water. Apply the cleaning solution to the sponge, either by spraying it on or dunking the sponge in the solution. If you are using a Magic Eraser, simply wet it and skip this step.

Next, gently rub the fiberglass shower pan from side to side, ensuring you don't miss any spots. Clean the sponge periodically by squeezing it out into a sink, then rewetting it and applying more cleaning solution.

Finally, wash out the pan with water to remove any remaining cleaning solution.

It is important to note that you should avoid using bleach-based products, scouring powders, or abrasive scouring tools when cleaning a fiberglass shower pan, as these can damage the surface.

Baking soda paste

Baking soda is a great natural cleaner that can be used to clean your fiberglass shower pan. It is gentle, safe to flush down the drain, and does not emit any harmful fumes. It is also a powerful mould killer and can be used to scrub away stains.

How to Make the Baking Soda Paste

You will need:

• 1/4 cup of baking soda
• Water

Mix the baking soda with enough water to form a paste. The paste should be thick, like cake batter. If it becomes too watery, simply add more baking soda.

How to Apply the Baking Soda Paste

Use a soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush to apply the paste to stained areas of the shower pan. Work the paste into the stains using a circular motion to prevent streaks. Leave the paste on the stains for around 15 minutes, or until it is dry.

Once the paste is dry, use the brush to scrub away the loosened stains. If necessary, repeat the process.

Alternative Method

Alternatively, you can sprinkle baking soda liberally over the shower floor and then pour vinegar on top. The vinegar will react with the baking soda, creating a foaming chemical reaction. Use a scrub brush to scrub the floor in small circles while the reaction is taking place. Rinse the shower floor when you are finished.

Avoid bleach

Bleach is a cheap and tempting shortcut to cleaning your fiberglass shower pan, but it is best avoided. Bleach contains harsh chemicals that can damage the gel coat on your fiberglass shower pan, and over time, it can also corrode metal fixtures.

While bleach can shift stubborn stains, it will also attack the threads that keep your shower pan together. It can also discolour and fade the surface of the fiberglass, leaving blotches.

There are many alternative cleaning products that are mild enough to use on fiberglass. For example, white vinegar is acidic enough to dissolve mold, mildew, grease, and buildup, but it won't hurt the fiberglass. You can also use non-abrasive household cleaners, such as dishwashing detergents and liquid laundry detergents, which are also cheaper than specialized bathroom cleaning products.

If you are looking for a product that will remove tough stains, you can try Magic Eraser, which is a soft sponge with cleaning solutions inside. It is gentle enough for fiberglass and very good at picking up heavy stains.

So, while bleach may seem like an easy option, it is always best to avoid it when cleaning your fiberglass shower pan to prevent any long-term damage.

Automotive wax to finish

To maintain the shiny finish of a fiberglass shower pan, it is recommended to apply automotive wax to the pan. This will protect the finish and keep dirt from sticking to it.

Firstly, ensure the shower pan is thoroughly cleaned and dried. You can use a handled sponge with dishwashing liquid and vinegar to scrub the entire surface and remove any soap scum or mildew. Then, dry the surface using a cotton towel or chamois.

Once the surface is clean and dry, apply the automotive wax by hand with a soft cloth. Buff the surface when it is dry, following the application directions. If you are using a spray wax, simply spray and let it dry, then lightly buff if desired.

It is important to note that you should not wax the floor of the shower pan, as it will become a slip hazard. Only wax the walls and exterior of the pan.

Some manufacturers recommend applying automotive wax to a fiberglass shower pan twice a year to maintain its shine and make cleaning easier.

Frequently asked questions