Cleaning Stained Fiberglass Shower Pan: Easy Tips For Sparkling Showers

Keeping your fiberglass shower clean can be a challenge due to the build-up of soap scum, shampoo residue, dirt, and mineral deposits. To restore its original hygienic state, you need to know which products to use and how to clean a fiberglass shower pan effectively. Here are some methods to help you get rid of those unsightly stains and keep your shower looking and smelling fresh.

How to Clean Stained Fiberglass Shower Pan

Use warm soapy water

Warm, soapy water is a great way to clean your fiberglass shower pan as part of your regular cleaning routine. The warm water and dish soap work together to loosen and lift away dirt and stains. Here is a step-by-step guide to cleaning your shower pan with warm soapy water:

Step 1: Prepare the Cleaning Solution

Add 2-3 squirts of dish soap to a bucket of hot or warm water. Dish soap is great for lifting away stains. You can also add a scoop of powdered oxygen bleach if your shower pan is white, as this will further enhance the cleaning power of the solution. However, avoid using bleach if your shower pan is not white, as it will sap the colour from the surface.

Step 2: Apply the Solution

Dip a sponge into the warm soapy water and apply it to the shower pan. Focus on stained areas, water marks, mineral deposits, and soap scum. You can also use a soft-bristled brush to work the solution into hard-to-reach areas or tough stains.

Step 3: Rinse and Dry

Once you have scrubbed the entire shower pan, rinse it with warm water to remove the cleaning solution and any loosened dirt. Allow the area to dry completely.

Maintenance

To maintain your fiberglass shower pan, it is recommended to repeat this cleaning process at least twice a week. This will help prevent a buildup of dirt, soap scum, and hard water stains, and will keep your shower pan looking its best.

Vinegar and dish soap

Vinegar is a great household cleaner that can lift away nearly any stain. Its acidic properties make it a powerful cleaner that can clean dirt and grime from most surfaces, including your fiberglass shower pan.

Preparing the Cleaning Solution

Mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle. Add one tablespoon of dish soap and swirl the bottle until the ingredients are fully combined. You can adjust the quantities of the ingredients as long as you maintain a 3:1 ratio of vinegar to dish soap.

Applying the Solution

Spray the solution onto the fiberglass shower pan, including the walls, faucet, handles, and showerhead. Let the solution sit for 10-15 minutes.

Scrubbing

Use a sponge or soft-bristled brush to scrub away the loosened dirt. Wipe the pan dry with a clean cloth or rinse the solution away with water.

You can also use the same solution to clean the showerhead by placing the showerhead in a plastic bag filled with the solution and leaving it to soak overnight.

Baking soda paste

Baking soda is a great natural cleaner that can be used to clean a fiberglass shower pan. It is gentle on the surface and will not cause any scratches or damage. It is also effective at removing stains and killing mould. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use baking soda paste to clean your fiberglass shower pan:

Step 1: Make the Baking Soda Paste

Mix baking soda and water to form a paste. The ratio of baking soda to water may vary depending on the consistency you prefer. A good starting point is ¼ cup of baking soda and enough water to form a paste. You can always adjust the amounts as needed. The texture of the paste should be thick, similar to cake batter. If it becomes too watery, simply add more baking soda until you achieve the desired consistency.

Step 2: Apply the Paste

Using a soft, damp cloth or sponge, carefully apply the baking soda paste to the stained areas of your fiberglass shower pan. Ensure that you cover all the discoloured or stained areas generously with the paste. Avoid using abrasive scrubbers or sponges as they can scratch the surface of the fiberglass.

Step 3: Let the Paste Sit

Allow the baking soda paste to sit on the surface for some time. This will give the paste time to work its magic and lift the stains. The duration may vary depending on the severity of the stains. For mild to moderate stains, 10-15 minutes should be sufficient. For more stubborn stains, you can let it sit for up to an hour.

Step 4: Scrub and Rinse

After the paste has had enough time to work, use a soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush to gently scrub the stained areas. Work the brush in a circular motion to prevent streaks on the shower pan. Once you're done scrubbing, thoroughly rinse the shower pan with warm water to remove any residue.

Step 5: Repeat if Necessary

If there are still some stubborn stains or discolouration, you may need to repeat the process. Reapply the baking soda paste and let it sit for a longer duration, such as 30 minutes to an hour. Then, scrub the area again and rinse with warm water. You can also try using a stronger solution by mixing baking soda, vinegar, and dishwashing liquid for more effective results.

By following these steps, you can effectively clean and remove stains from your fiberglass shower pan using baking soda paste. Remember to be gentle during the process and avoid using abrasive tools or harsh chemicals to prevent damage to the fiberglass surface.

Bleach gel

To make a bleach gel, start by mixing 6 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 cups of water in a pot. Heat this mixture on the stove, stirring continuously, until it thickens into a gel-like slurry. Once it has reached this consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Then, add in 10-12 tablespoons of bleach – the more bleach you add, the stronger your gel will be. Stir the mixture well, and then transfer it to a bottle with a spout tip, such as an old ketchup bottle.

Now that your bleach gel is ready, it's time to apply it to the stained areas of your shower pan. Make sure the gel completely covers the stain, and then let it sit for 10-15 minutes. After that, use a soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush to gently scrub away the stain. Finally, rinse off the area and wipe it dry. If necessary, repeat the process until the stain is completely gone.

It is important to note that bleach can be harsh on the skin and should be handled with care. Always wear protective gloves when working with bleach and ensure that the area is well-ventilated. Do not mix bleach with other cleaning chemicals, especially ammonia, as this can create a deadly gas.

Commercial cleaner

Before using a commercial cleaner, it is important to take safety precautions. Put on gloves and a mask, as these products can be harsh on the skin and release fumes that may irritate the lungs. Always read the manufacturer's instructions before use and follow any safety guidelines provided.

To clean your fiberglass shower pan, start by spraying or applying the commercial cleaner to the surface. Allow it to sit for the recommended amount of time, giving it a chance to work on the stains. Then, use a sponge or a soft-bristled brush to work the solution into the stains, scrubbing in a circular motion to prevent streaks. Be sure to use gentle motions to avoid scratching the surface.

If the product instructions require rinsing, rinse the shower pan with water and wipe it dry with a clean cloth. Otherwise, you can allow the solution to dry completely, or use a cloth to wipe down the surface.

For a chemical-free option, you can use a Magic Eraser, such as the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. Simply wet the eraser and scrub at the stained areas with light motions. Rinse out any loose pieces and wipe the surface dry with a clean cloth.

Frequently asked questions