Cleaning your shower can be challenging with soap scum and hard water stains. We tested various popular shower cleaners, evaluating their effectiveness on different surfaces like tile, grout, plastic, metal, and glass. We also considered factors such as spray pattern, antimicrobial properties, and cost per ounce.
After rigorous testing, two standout cleaners emerged. The Clorox Clean-Up Cleaner Spray demonstrated exceptional stain-fighting power, particularly on tough stains, while the Kaboom Foam-Tastic Bathroom Cleaner with OxiClean offered a more affordable alternative with great performance. Both excelled in removing stubborn stains from grout and leaving glass shower doors streak-free.
Clorox Clean-Up Cleaner + Bleach (Best Overall)
This cleaner effectively removes shower grime with minimal effort. It tackles difficult stains and leaves surfaces shining.
The spray bottle covers a large area with a thin mist, preventing the cleaner from running down the wall. However, the noticeable bleach smell may be a drawback for some users.
Kaboom Foam-Tastic Bathroom Cleaner (Best Foam Cleaner)
This cleaner earned the best value badge for its affordability and solid performance. The foam spray effectively clings to surfaces without dripping, making it ideal for spot-cleaning.
While it may require a bit more effort than the top pick, its low cost per ounce makes it a budget-friendly option.
Method Bathroom Cleaner (Best Nontoxic)
For those seeking a nontoxic option, Method Bathroom Cleaner offers surprising cleaning power. It cuts through grime and soap scum nearly as effectively as the top contenders.
The spray bottle’s wide, thin pattern is suitable for cleaning large areas. However, its higher price may be a consideration for budget-conscious consumers.
Wet & Forget Shower (Best Scentless)
This scentless cleaner, Wet & Forget Shower, impressed us with its innovative design. The detachable spray nozzle with an extension hose provides full range of movement.
It performed well on our tests, cleaning glass without streaking and removing grime from grout with ease. Additionally, it’s completely scentless, making it suitable for those sensitive to smells.
Mr Clean
Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Extra Durable scrubber – a cleaning powerhouse that’s 4 times stronger with DURAFOAM cleaning performance compared to the leading all-purpose bleach spray. This tough scrubber is your go-to solution for various cleaning tasks around the house.
Use it as a surface cleaner, wall cleaner, bathtub cleaner, bathroom cleaner, or oven door cleaner. It effortlessly erases marks on light switches, doors, and more. Plus, it’s excellent for giving your sneakers a fresh look by tackling tough marks, stuck-on dirt, and scuffs.
What’s remarkable is that the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser achieves a powerful clean with just water – no need for harsh chemicals. You can store it in a cool place for future use. Available in different forms like Kitchen, Original, and Bathroom, these Magic Erasers are versatile cleaning tools.
When it comes to storage and disposal, remember not to reuse or refill the container unless it’s with this specific product. If not refilling, simply rinse the bottle and dispose of it in the trash or recycling.
Best for Tile: Soft Scrub with Bleach Cleaner Gel
Soft Scrub Gel Cleanser with Bleach is a powerful cleaner specifically designed for tile surfaces. It effortlessly eliminates the majority of stains with just one swipe, although it may not perform as well on glass. The main drawback is its squeeze bottle, making it less precise for spot cleaning compared to spray bottles. Despite using bleach, the smell is relatively mild.
Other Shower Cleaners We Tested
- Scrubbing Bubbles Bathroom Grime Fighter: This cleaner, with its iconic mascot, offers decent cleaning power but falls in the mid-range. While the foaming action spray is not as impressive as others, it effectively cleans grout with fewer swipes. However, it is pricier per ounce than some competitors.
- Better Life Tub and Tile Cleaner: Although not the strongest nontoxic option, Better Life Natural Tub and Tile Cleaner outperforms some chemical-based cleaners. It may leave streaks initially, but subsequent scrubs can clean them up. The spray bottle design is standard, and it offers good coverage with a thin spray pattern. It is a budget-friendly choice for those looking for a nontoxic cleaner with moderate cleaning power.
- Ecos Shower Cleaner: Ecos shower cleaner is an inexpensive and nontoxic option but doesn’t provide the same cleaning power as traditional cleaners. It may take more swipes to remove stains, and glass surfaces may need additional polishing. However, it stands out for its low cost per ounce.
- Microban 24 Hour Multi-Purpose Cleaner: While Microban 24-hour Bathroom Cleaner offers 24-hour bacterial protection, its raw cleaning power is not as impressive. It requires more scrubbing to remove stains, and glass surfaces may need additional polishing. The spray is standard but too runny for accurate spot-cleaning.
- CLR Routine Clean Brilliant Bath Foaming Action Cleaner: Contrary to expectations, CLR Bathroom Routine Clean falls behind in cleaning power and does not live up to the CLR reputation. It takes more swipes to clear grime off tile, and the foaming spray, while thick, tends to be runny. With below-average performance and a slightly above-average price, it is not a compelling purchase.
How to Choose the Best Shower Cleaner for You
- Best for Mold and Mildew: Mold and mildew thrive in damp environments, so ensure proper ventilation. Antibacterial cleaners may not be the best; instead, focus on keeping the area dry.
- Best for Glass: All tested shower cleaners proved effective for streak-free glass. Some may require more effort, but all can provide a spotless shine.
- Best for Hard-Water Stains: Combat hard-water stains with a mixture of vinegar and water. Ensure the room is well-ventilated to prevent a damp environment.
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