Cleaning Shower Pan Stains: Easy And Effective Methods

Keeping your shower pan clean can be a challenge, especially when it comes to dealing with tough stains. There are various causes of shower pan stains, including hard water, soap scum, dirt, mould, and mildew. To effectively clean your shower pan and remove stains, it is important to use suitable cleaning products and methods that are tailored to the type of shower pan material you have, be it plastic, fiberglass, or ceramic. The right cleaning approach will help you achieve a spotless and sparkling shower pan while preserving the integrity of its surface.

Use a non-abrasive cleaner like dish soap and a sponge, brush or cloth

To clean shower pan stains, it is important to use non-abrasive cleaners, especially if you have a fiberglass shower, as abrasive cleaners can scratch the surface. A great non-abrasive cleaner is dish soap.

To begin, add 2-3 squirts of dish soap to a bucket of hot or warm water. You can also add a scoop of powdered oxygen bleach if your shower floor is white, but this is optional and should be avoided if your shower floor is colored. Next, dip a sponge, brush, or cloth into the soapy mixture and scrub your shower floor, focusing on stained areas, watermarks, mineral deposits, and soap scum. Rinse the floor with warm water and allow the area to dry completely. Repeat this process at least twice a week for general shower maintenance.

If you are dealing with tough stains, you can make a paste by mixing a small amount of water with baking soda. Spread the paste over the stained area and leave it on for several hours before rinsing with warm water. For more stubborn stains, you can use vinegar. Mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle, adding one tablespoon of dish soap. Spray the solution on the stained area and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before using a sponge or soft-bristled brush to scrub away the dirt.

Remember to always use non-abrasive tools such as sponges, brushes, or cloths made from polyethylene, polyester, or nylon when cleaning your shower pan to avoid scratching the surface.

Try a baking soda paste for stubborn stains

If your shower pan has stubborn stains, a baking soda paste is a powerful way to remove them. Baking soda acts as a gentle abrasive, lifting and scrubbing away stains. It also neutralises odours, as it is alkaline and can absorb odours, which are usually acidic.

To make a baking soda paste, you will need baking soda and a little water. You can also add a small amount of dish soap. Combine the ingredients to form a thick paste, which you can store in a small glass jar.

To use the 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 stain, working in a circular motion to prevent streaking. Leave the paste for around 15 minutes, or until it is dry, so that it can lift the stains. Then, use a brush to scrub away the loosened stains, and wipe away any dried baking soda powder with a clean cloth. Repeat the process if necessary.

This method is suitable for most shower pans, but avoid using it on acrylic tubs, as the baking soda may scratch the surface.

Use vinegar and dish soap to lift stains

Vinegar and dish soap is a great combination to lift stains from your shower pan. This method is especially useful for cleaning a fiberglass shower pan, which is a common feature in freestanding showers, typically in older homes. The protective layer of fiberglass can easily scratch, leaving nooks for mold to grow, and hard water mineral deposits, soap scum, and dirt can stain the surface.

Step 1: Gather the Ingredients and Tools

You will need equal parts water and vinegar, dish soap, a spray bottle, a sponge or soft-bristled brush, and a clean cloth.

Step 2: Prepare the Cleaning Solution

Mix together equal amounts of water and vinegar in the spray bottle. Add one tablespoon of dish soap and swirl or shake the bottle gently to incorporate the soap.

Step 3: Apply the Solution to the Shower

Spray the solution generously around the entire fiberglass area, including the shower walls, faucet, handles, and showerhead. Make sure to also spray any stained areas on the shower pan.

Step 4: Let the Solution Sit

Allow the cleaning solution to sit for 10-15 minutes. During this time, the vinegar and dish soap will work to lift away the stains and loosen any dirt and grime.

Step 5: Scrub and Rinse

After the solution has had time to work, use the sponge or soft-bristled brush to gently scrub away any remaining dirt and stains. Pay special attention to stained areas and use circular motions to prevent streaks on your shower pan. Finally, rinse the shower pan with warm water or wipe it dry with a clean cloth.

Optional Step: Soak the Showerhead

If your showerhead is also in need of cleaning, you can use the same solution to clean it. Place the showerhead in a plastic bag filled with the cleaning solution and let it soak overnight. In the morning, remove it from the bag and rinse it thoroughly with water.

Bleach can help remove mildew stains

Bleach is a powerful cleaning agent that can effectively remove mildew stains from your shower pan. Here are some detailed instructions on how to use bleach to tackle those stubborn mildew stains:

Prepare a Bleach Solution:

Start by mixing bleach with water. For a more concentrated approach, you can use undiluted bleach, but always exercise caution and ensure proper ventilation when working with pure bleach. If you prefer a milder solution, mix one part bleach with three parts water.

Apply the Bleach:

Using a spray bottle, generously apply the bleach solution to the affected areas of your shower pan. Ensure that the stained areas are thoroughly saturated. Alternatively, you can use a cloth or sponge to spread the bleach solution evenly over the stains.

Allow the Bleach to Penetrate:

Let the bleach sit on the stains for at least 10-15 minutes. During this time, the bleach will penetrate the stains and begin to break down the mildew. For tougher stains, you may need to let the bleach sit for a longer period, up to 30 minutes or more.

Scrub the Stains:

After the bleach has had sufficient time to work, it's time to scrub. Use a stiff brush or a scrubber sponge and put some elbow grease into it. Scrub the stained areas vigorously until the mildew stains start to fade. For particularly stubborn stains, you may need to repeat the process or use a stronger bleach concentration.

Rinse and Dry:

Once you're satisfied with the results, thoroughly rinse the shower pan with warm water to remove any remaining bleach and mildew residue. Finally, dry the area completely with a clean cloth or let it air dry.

By following these steps, you can effectively use bleach to remove mildew stains from your shower pan, leaving it clean and mildew-free. Remember to always use caution when working with bleach and to avoid mixing it with other cleaning chemicals.

Commercial cleaners are convenient and easy to use

Commercial cleaners are a convenient and powerful way to remove stains from your shower pan or floor. They are readily available and easy to use, and can work wonders on stubborn scum and stains. When choosing a commercial cleaner, opt for those that are specifically formulated for shower pans or floors, especially if yours is made of fibreglass or plastic. These materials can be easily scratched, so it's important to select a non-abrasive cleaner.

Look for oxalic-acid-based cleaners that can effectively remove rust spots and mould stains without damaging the surface of your shower pan. These types of cleaners are ideal for fibreglass shower pans as they are designed to be non-abrasive and will not scratch the gel coat. Marine cleaners that contain oxalic acid, such as FSR or Star Brite Ultimate Fiberglass Stain Remover, are also a good option. These products are typically in gel form, which helps them stick to the surface being cleaned, ensuring that they don't disappear down the drain too quickly.

When using commercial cleaners, always read and follow the safety instructions on the label. Most commercial cleaners can be harsh on the skin and release fumes that can irritate the lungs, so be sure to wear gloves and a mask. Test the product on a small area first to ensure it doesn't damage or discolour the surface. Apply the cleaner according to the manufacturer's directions, allowing it to sit for the intended time. Use a sponge or soft-bristled brush to work the solution into the stains, scrubbing in a circular motion to prevent streaks. Finally, rinse the area with water and wipe it dry with a clean cloth.

In addition to commercial cleaners, there are also magic erasers or melamine sponges that can be used as a chemical-free alternative. These sponges work as both a sponge and a cleaning solution, requiring only water to activate. Simply wet the eraser and scrub at the stained areas with light motions to avoid scratching the surface.

Frequently asked questions