Cleaning Old Shower Pans: Tips For A Sparkling Bathroom

Cleaning an old shower pan can be a challenging task, especially if it hasn't been cleaned in a long time. The type of shower pan you have will determine the best method for cleaning it. For example, if you have a fiberglass shower pan, you'll need to use non-abrasive cleaning tools and cleaners to avoid scratching the surface. On the other hand, if you have a plastic shower pan, you may need to use stronger chemicals or a drill brush to remove stubborn stains. In general, a good place to start is by using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar, which is effective at removing soap scum and water stains. For tougher stains, you may need to use hydrogen peroxide, bleach, or even oven cleaner.

Use a vinegar solution

Vinegar is a versatile, inexpensive, and natural cleaning agent. It can be used to clean everything from sinks to showerheads. When using vinegar, it is important to remember that it is an acid and should not be mixed with bleach or hydrogen peroxide. Mixing vinegar with bleach creates toxic fumes and peracetic acid, which can irritate the skin, eyes, and lungs. Vinegar should also not be used to clean upholstery, electrical items, or natural or porous stones like granite.

To clean an old shower pan with vinegar, follow these steps:

Step 1: Create a Vinegar Solution

• Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
• Optionally, add 5-20 drops of an essential oil like grapefruit or lemon to improve the smell of the solution.
• You can also add 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of dish soap for better dirt removal.
• Label the bottle clearly to avoid adding other substances that could create toxic fumes.

Step 2: Apply the Vinegar Solution

• Spray the vinegar solution onto the shower pan and other surfaces like the shower walls, faucet, handles, and showerhead.
• Allow the solution to sit for 10-15 minutes.

Step 3: Scrub and Rinse

• Use a sponge or soft-bristled brush to scrub away the dirt and grime loosened by the vinegar solution.
• Rinse the shower pan with water or wipe it dry with a clean cloth.

Step 4: Clean the Showerhead

• Place the vinegar solution in a plastic bag and secure it around the showerhead to soak for a few hours.
• Remove the bag and wipe away any remaining residue.

Opt for non-abrasive household cleaners

When cleaning an old shower pan, it is important to opt for non-abrasive household cleaners to prevent scratching or discolouration. Here are some detailed, direct, and instructive tips on choosing and using non-abrasive cleaners for your shower pan:

Identify Suitable Cleaners

Select gentle, non-abrasive cleaners for your shower pan. Dishwashing detergents and liquid laundry detergents are excellent choices as they are gentle on surfaces and generally cheaper than specialised bathroom cleaning products. You can also use all-purpose or bathroom cleaners, but these may be unnecessarily expensive.

Avoid Abrasive Cleaners

It is crucial to avoid using abrasive scouring powders, pads, or steel wool, as these can scratch and damage the surface of your shower pan. Stay away from bleach-based products as well, as they can discolour the pan.

Create Natural Solutions

You can also create your own cleaning solutions with common household items. For example, mix half a cup of vinegar with a gallon of water, or make a paste with baking soda and water. These natural solutions are effective at removing stubborn grime and soap scum without causing any harm to your shower pan.

Apply with Soft Tools

When applying the cleaning solution, use soft sponges made of nylon, polyester, or polyethylene. Avoid using rough or abrasive sponges, as these can damage the surface. Gently rub the pan with side-to-side motions to ensure effective cleaning without causing scratches.

Rinse and Dry

After scrubbing, thoroughly rinse the shower pan with clean water to remove any remaining residue. To maintain your shower pan and prevent water spots, dry the pan after each use with a squeegee or a cloth.

By following these tips and choosing non-abrasive household cleaners, you can effectively clean your old shower pan while protecting its surface from scratches and discolouration.

Make a baking soda mix

To make a baking soda mix, start by mixing half a cup of baking soda with a few tablespoons of water. Keep adding water and mixing until the mixture reaches a paste-like consistency. For a stronger solution, you can add vinegar and dishwashing liquid to the mix.

Once you have your paste, apply it to the stained areas of your shower pan. Use a soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush to work the paste into the stains, working in a circular motion to prevent streaks on your shower pan.

Let the paste sit for around 15 minutes, or until it is dry. Then, use the brush to scrub away the loosened stains and wipe off any dried baking soda powder with a clean cloth. Repeat the process if necessary.

Baking soda is a great natural alternative to store-bought chemical detergents. It has been used as a cleaning agent for nearly five millennia, thanks to its basic pH balance, which can neutralise the acidic nature of other substances. It is also a great odour eliminator and can even be used as a non-toxic form of pest control.

Apply an all-purpose or bathroom cleaner

When cleaning an old shower pan, you can use an all-purpose or bathroom cleaner. These are usually gentle enough for use on shower pans made from materials such as fiberglass, but they can be unnecessarily expensive.

To use a commercial cleaner, first, remove any loose debris and hair from the shower pan using a handheld broom or vacuum. Then, apply the cleaner to a non-abrasive sponge, brush, or cloth. You should opt for an applicator made from polyethylene, polyester, or nylon. Vigorously scrub the shower pan using circular motions, focusing on any stubborn stains. Finally, rinse the shower pan with clean water and dry it with a soft cloth.

If you are using a commercial cleaner, be sure to never mix it with other cleaning products, especially not with bleach or ammonia, as this can produce lethal fumes.

Use a Magic Eraser

A Magic Eraser is a soft sponge with a cleaning solution inside. It is made from melamine resin foam, which creates a powerful cleaning tool that hardens when wet to lift dirt and grime from surfaces with just water. To use a Magic Eraser to clean an old shower pan, follow these steps:

Step 1: Wet the Magic Eraser

Water activates the tough micro-scrubbers inside the Magic Eraser, so be sure to wet it thoroughly before use. You can also squeeze out any excess water before moving on to the next step.

Step 2: Apply the Magic Eraser to the Shower Pan

Gently rub the Magic Eraser on the shower pan using side-to-side or circular motions. Focus on areas with heavy stains or soap scum buildup. The Magic Eraser is gentle enough to use on most surfaces, including fiberglass, but use caution on high-gloss, stainless steel, or non-stick surfaces.

Step 3: Rinse and Wipe Down the Shower Pan

After scrubbing, thoroughly rinse the shower pan with clean water. Use a handheld showerhead or a bucket to wash away any remaining residue. Then, use a clean cloth or squeegee to wipe down the surface, leaving your shower pan clean and refreshed.

Step 4: Maintain and Prevent Future Buildup

To maintain your shower pan and prevent future soap scum buildup, consider using a daily shower spray. Regularly wiping down the pan after each use can also help keep it clean. Adequate ventilation and the use of a squeegee can minimize moisture, reducing the conditions that promote soap scum and grime buildup.

Frequently asked questions