Cleaning the shower is no one’s idea of fun, but it does not have to be that much of an ordeal if it is done regularly and methodically. Here are five simple steps to clean a shower:
1. Gather the Tools and Dress Appropriately
A shower is considered a wet area, and the tools to get it sparkling clean are more numerous than the tools needed for a dry space such as the bedroom. The toolkit should include paper towels, microfiber cloths, a spray cleanser, bathroom sponge with an abrasive side and a soft side, a vinegar solution of one part vinegar and one part water and rubber gloves. Some people also add scrapers and cleaning toothbrushes to get into crevices, corners, tile grout and the tricky areas around the fixtures or the glide for the shower door.
Make sure to dress appropriately for the job. To clean a shower in a nightgown or muumuu may be tempting, but there’s too much risk of the fabric snagging on a fixture or even tools. Shoes should be sturdy, and the worker should wear a cleaning apron with lots of pockets for tools and bits of trash to throw out later.
2. Wipe Down
Dampen the bathroom sponge, and wipe down the walls and floors the shower using its soft side. Make sure that all pools of water are blotted up. To get rid of mold and mildew in the grout, scrub it with a solution of one part bleach and three parts water. A paste made of baking soda and a few drops of white vinegar is also good to get rid of mold and mildew and keep them under control.
3. Clean the Shower Head
Spray the shower head and the metal fixtures with vinegar solution. Rinse them then polish them dry with a microfiber cloth.
4. Clean the Shower Stall Door
If there’s a shower door, it too needs attention. Spray with the vinegar and water solution, and wipe away any smears or finger prints. Then rinse using a damp sponge. Dry the door with a new dry microfiber cloth. Make sure to polish any metal as well.
5. Clean the Shower Curtain
If the shower has a curtain, it should be washed in hot water and a gentle detergent in the washing machine. If it is badly mildewed, soak it in one part bleach to four parts water for 10 minutes before putting it in the washing machine. The mildew can also be scrubbed with a paste of baking soda and water then thoroughly rinsed. Another way is to blast the mildew with a mildew remover according to the instructions on the label.
About Cleaning Services
When cleaning just seems too overwhelming do not hesitate to contact cleaning services if it’s practicable. Ask for references from friends, neighbors and coworkers, and look up the company on line. If it is a big cleaning job, pick three and put the job out for bid.
