How to Clean a Fiberglass Shower

Cleaning a fiberglass shower can seem like a daunting task. Fiberglass showers are strong and durable but they pick up soap scum and mineral deposits that make them appear dull and dirty. Harsh abrasive cleaners are not an option for fiberglass since they scratch the surface, permanently dulling and damaging the appearance. Use a squeegee after each shower to prevent much of the soap scum and minerals from forming deposits. When cleaning becomes necessary, use these techniques to restore your fiberglass shower to its original appearance.

Simple Cleaning

Keep a spray bottle filled with white vinegar in your bathroom. Spray the shower walls and floor with a generous amount of vinegar several times a week and let it air dry. This will eliminate much of the need for scrubbing.

You can clean your fiberglass shower with shampoo or dish soap to remove mild soap scum and water stains. Mix white vinegar with a little shampoo or dish soap in a spray bottle. The soap keeps the solution from evaporating too quickly while the vinegar eliminates water deposits. Spray the solution on all surfaces and use a non-abrasive scrubbing sponge to clean the area. Rinse and dry for a clean shower.

Extra Cleaning

When soap scum and water spots are visible, spray the shower with white vinegar. Dip a damp scrubby sponge in baking soda and scrub the shower floor and walls with it. Rinse thoroughly and use a squeegee or soft towel to dry. If you need a little extra power, use Borax instead of baking soda.

Stubborn Stains

Stubborn stains require a little extra time and effort. Sprinkle baking soda on stained areas. Saturate a paper towel with vinegar and lay it on top of the soda. Wait 1/2 hour to an hour, then use a nylon brush to scrub off any remaining stains.

Rust and Hard Water Stains

Rust and hard water mineral deposits often require the use of a commercial cleaner. Make sure you have proper ventilation and wear gloves. Apply a liquid rust and mineral deposit remover according to package directions. These products are acidic, so only use them if necessary. Don't let them sit on the fiberglass any longer than needed as they may etch the surface.

Impossible Grunge

The task of cleaning a badly neglected fiberglass shower may start you thinking about replacing it. Try this instead. Buy a can or two of "no fume" oven cleaner. Make sure it's "no fume," not the regular kind. Standard oven cleaners may contain lye, which will damage your fiberglass shower.

Spray a thick, even coat of oven cleaner starting at the floor and working your way up. It's foam, so it will cling to the shower walls. Let it stand for an hour or longer as needed. You'll need less effort than you thought to remove the caked on soap scum and mineral deposits. Repeat if necessary.

Protect

Use fiberglass boat wax to apply a protective coating on the walls of your shower to allow water to run off. Do not use it on the floor as it leaves a slippery surface.