Cleaning a tile shower can seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and techniques, it’s easier than you think. Whether you’re wondering about the best way to clean a tile shower, how to get rid of stubborn soap scum, or what products work best for ceramic tile, this guide is for you.
If you live in San Luis Obispo County, you may be dealing with hard water or humidity, which makes regular maintenance even more important. In this guide on how to keep your tile shower clean, we’ll explore the best way to clean a ceramic tile shower, along with effective methods for porcelain and other tile types. With the right techniques and tools, you can keep your shower sparkling and mold-free.
How to Keep Your Tile Shower Clean: Basic Cleaning and Care Instructions
Wipe your shower down after each use, and then do a more thorough cleaning every week or two, or as often as needed, depending on how much use the shower gets. Here are some basic shower cleaning instructions.
- Remove all items in the shower so that you have easy access to the entire shower.
- Either clean your shower immediately following shower use, which is the most ideal scenario, or rinse the shower surfaces with warm water.
- Apply the appropriate cleaning solution for your type of tile. Read cleaning product labels (see below). Follow the instructions on the product label to clean your surfaces and fixtures.
- Rinse all surfaces.
- Control moisture (see below).
Have Copher Tile & Stone seal your tile and grout, if necessary, as often as needed.
Read Cleaning Product Labels
Using the right cleaner is crucial. Make sure to follow the product label instructions carefully. Over-diluting cleaners can reduce their effectiveness, so use them at the recommended concentration.
Choose a pH-balanced cleaner for routine use. For specific issues, check the label to ensure the cleaner is safe for your tile and grout. Avoid acidic or alkaline cleaners, which can damage certain surfaces, especially calcium-based stone. Vinegar should never be used on stone tiles. After using strong cleaners, rinse with a neutral solution to prevent damage.
Allow the recommended dwell time for cleaners to work effectively. If trying a new product, always test it on a small, inconspicuous area first.
Control Moisture
To prevent mold and mildew, control the moisture left after showering. Keep your bathroom as dry as possible. Here’s how:
- Keep a squeegee in the shower and use it after each use to redirect water to the drain.
- Dry remaining moisture with a microfiber cloth to prevent water spots and soap scum.
- Ensure proper ventilation to avoid post-shower humidity. Use a fan sized for your bathroom.
- Remove wet towels, washcloths, and mats from the bathroom.
- Radiant underfloor heating can help dry moisture—it’s safe for shower floors.
- If the shower sees heavy use, consider running a dehumidifier.
- Clean the drain regularly to avoid slow drainage or puddling.
Grout Sealing
High-performance grout provides moisture resistance. Hopefully, your shower was installed by Copher Tile & Stone.
As a standard practice, we use a high-performance cementitious grout that does not require sealing. These grouts perform as well as a standard cementitious grout does with a coat of sealer. They will accept a coat of sealer if you desire a higher performance, though. To maintain the higher performance, you will need to have your grout regularly resealed.
— Adam Copher, Owner of Copher Tile & Stone
We provide tile and stone sealing services, as well as grout sealing with penetrating sealers. These services can be scheduled as needed or on a recurring basis.
Hard Water Stain Removal and Prevention
The type of water you have in your home might affect your tile shower. Hard water can present cleaning and maintenance challenges. To learn more, read our article: Hard Water, Water Softeners, and Your New Tile.
To clean a mineral-clogged shower head, remove it (if possible), and soak it in a 50/50 mixture of vinegar and water overnight. You can use a plastic bag partially filled with vinegar if you are unable to remove the shower head. Use rubber bands to secure it in place over the shower head. Just be careful about the acidic vinegar coming into contact with any acid-sensitive surface.
Best Tile Shower Cleaners and Products
When it comes to cleaning your tile shower, the right products can make all the difference. Here are some of the best cleaners and tools for each part of the cleaning process:
Ceramic Tile Shower Cleaner:
- Best Product: Lysol Bathroom Cleaner with Hydrogen Peroxide – Ideal for ceramic tiles, it fights soap scum and hard water stains without leaving residue.
- Alternative: Scrub Free Bathroom Cleaner – This cleaner is great for everyday use on ceramic tiles and helps prevent soap scum buildup.
Grout Cleaner:
- Best Product: Zep Grout Cleaner and Restorer – Zep’s grout cleaner effectively removes dirt, stains, and mold, making it a top choice for grout cleaning.
- Alternative: Clorox Tilex Mold and Mildew Remover – Ideal for tougher grout stains and mildew removal.
Natural or DIY Tile Cleaning Solutions:
- Vinegar and Baking Soda Solution – A mix of vinegar and baking soda can work wonders on grout lines, removing buildup and restoring shine to tiles (avoid using this on stone tiles as vinegar can damage them).
- DIY All-Purpose Cleaner: Mix 1 cup of water, 1 cup of vinegar, and a few drops of dish soap in a spray bottle for a budget-friendly, effective cleaner.
Sealers and Protectants
- Best Product: Aqua Mix Sealer’s Choice Gold – This sealer is highly recommended for ceramic and porcelain tiles, offering long-lasting protection against stains and moisture.
- Alternative: StoneTech BulletProof Sealer – This sealer is perfect for high-moisture areas, creating a protective barrier for both tile and grout.
Cleaning Tips for Different Types of Shower Tiles
Every tile is unique, and the cleaning approach can vary depending on the material. Here’s a breakdown of cleaning methods for the most popular tile types found in showers:
Ceramic Tiles:
Ceramic tiles are durable and easy to clean, but they can be prone to soap scum buildup. Use a pH-neutral cleaner or a mild vinegar solution for routine cleaning. Be sure to avoid harsh chemicals, as they can erode the tile’s glaze over time.
Porcelain Tiles:
Porcelain tiles are similar to ceramic tiles but denser and less porous. To clean, use a gentle all-purpose cleaner or a specialized porcelain tile cleaner. For deep cleaning, a mixture of water and baking soda can help lift stains from the tile surface.
Natural Stone Tiles (Granite, Marble, Slate, etc.):
Stone tiles require a bit more care. Avoid acidic cleaners like vinegar, as they can damage the stone. Use a stone-safe cleaner, and consider using a stone sealer to maintain the surface. If you notice stains, a professional may need to treat the stone for restoration.
Glass Tiles:
Glass tiles are easy to clean with a mixture of water and dish soap. To maintain their shine, avoid abrasive scrubbers. Use a squeegee after each shower to reduce water spots.
Preventing Buildup and Maintaining a Clean Shower
Preventative maintenance is essential to keep your tile shower looking its best. Regular care will not only help your shower stay clean but also extend the life of your tiles and grout. Here are some easy ways to prevent common issues:
- Seal Your Grout:
Grout is porous and can absorb moisture, leading to mold and mildew growth. Having your grout sealed can significantly reduce these problems. You can apply a penetrating sealer yourself, or hire a professional for regular sealing. - Install a Squeegee in Your Shower:
Use a squeegee after every shower to remove excess water from the tiles and glass. This simple step helps reduce soap scum and hard water stains. - Use a Bathroom Vent Fan:
Adequate ventilation is crucial for keeping moisture levels down in your bathroom. Make sure your bathroom fan is the right size for your space, and run it during and after showers to remove excess humidity. - Replace Worn Caulk and Grout:
If your shower has cracked caulk or grout, water can seep into the walls, leading to mold and mildew. Replace damaged caulk and grout promptly to avoid long-term issues. - Consider a Water Softener:
Hard water can leave mineral deposits on your tiles, creating stubborn stains. Installing a water softener can help reduce mineral buildup and make your shower easier to clean.
Conclusion
Keeping your tile shower clean doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right tools, techniques, and a little consistency, you can maintain a beautiful, mold-free space that stays fresh every day. Whether you live on the coast or inland, San Luis Obispo County’s varying water conditions mean it’s especially important to take preventive steps, like sealing grout and managing hard water buildup.
by Alice Dean
Copher Tile & Stone proudly stays up to date on tile installation with ongoing education with Mapei Technical Institute, Ardex Academy, the National Tile Contractors Association, Laticrete, and Schluter. Copher is a Certified Tile Installer (#1644).
