Cleaning a dirty shower, with its accumulation of mildew, mold, soap scum, and other germs, can be a challenging task. To achieve a thorough clean, an effective shower cleaner is essential.
While there are numerous store-bought shower cleaning products available, some may prefer a less harsh, more cost-effective solution. If you’re interested in using a homemade cleaning spray made from common household ingredients, here are some effective DIY shower cleaner recipes you can try.
Ingredients Needed
To make your own shower cleaner, gather the following items from your pantry or local store:
– Distilled white vinegar
– Hydrogen peroxide
– Isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol
– Dish soap (such as the original blue version of Dawn)
– Dishwasher rinse aid
– Essential oils (optional, for fragrance)
– Spray bottle or wand scrubber (ensure it is empty and clean)
– Water
How to Make a Vinegar-Free DIY Shower Cleaner
If you are sensitive to vinegar or its aroma, there are alternative household ingredients you can use to create an effective DIY shower cleaner. This vinegar-free shower spray also serves as an excellent no-rinse cleaner. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol
– 1/2 cup hydrogen peroxide
– 1 teaspoon liquid dishwashing soap
– 1 tablespoon dishwasher rinse aid
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Pour all the ingredients into a clean spray bottle.
2. Shake the bottle gently to mix the ingredients.
Usage:
Spray the vinegar-free shower cleaner on tubs, doors, shower walls, and shower curtains just before you step out of the shower. This cleaner is free from bleach, ammonia, and harsh chemicals, so it will not damage surfaces or sealants.
Tip:
Unlike DIY shower cleaners that contain vinegar, this vinegar-free version is safe to use on stone, marble, and granite surfaces.
How to Make a DIY Shower Cleaner With Vinegar and Water
Vinegar is a versatile cleaning agent that can cut through dirt and kill bacteria. To create an all-purpose vinegar cleaning solution for your shower and other areas of your home, follow these steps:
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 4 cups warm water
– 2-3 drops essential oil (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine all ingredients in a clean spray bottle.
2. Shake well to mix.
Usage:
Use the vinegar solution to clean shower doors and walls. This DIY shower spray is ideal for everyday use and helps prevent hard water buildup.
Tip:
Use vinegar on ceramic and porcelain tiles only. Acidic cleaners like vinegar can damage cement and natural stone tiles, which are more delicate despite their beauty.
How to Make a DIY Shower Cleaner With Vinegar and Dish Soap
Creating an effective, budget-friendly DIY shower cleaner is simple and quick. This cleaner effortlessly cuts through soap scum on tubs, tiles, faucets, and showers without the need for scrubbing. The ingredients you need are equal parts of white vinegar and dish soap:
– 1 cup white vinegar
– 1 cup Dawn blue dish soap (or any other liquid dishwashing soap)
Instructions:
1. Heat the Vinegar: Place the vinegar in a microwave-safe container and heat it in the microwave until it is very hot. Heating helps the dish soap dissolve more easily.
2. Mix the Ingredients: Carefully remove the hot vinegar from the microwave and pour it into an empty spray bottle. Add the dish soap to the spray bottle and gently swirl the mixture to combine. Avoid shaking to prevent excessive bubbles.
3. Label the Bottle: Clearly label the spray bottle to indicate its contents.
Usage Tips:
– Application: Spray the mixture onto the surface you want to clean and let it sit for up to 30 minutes.
– Rinsing: Rinse with hot water and, if necessary, wipe down with a microfiber cloth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Dawn and vinegar clean showers?
Yes, the 50-50 combination of Dawn dish soap and vinegar is highly effective for cleaning showers. It breaks down soap scum and hard water buildup on tubs and showers, and can also be used to clean sinks and appliances. Simply spray the solution onto the surface, let it sit for 15-30 minutes, and then wipe clean.
How do you make a no-rinse shower cleaner?
A no-rinse shower cleaner can be made using household ingredients like white vinegar, rubbing alcohol, dishwashing soap, and hydrogen peroxide.
How do I clean my shower with vinegar and baking soda?
Sprinkle baking soda around your shower and then spray it with vinegar. Scrub using a brush and rinse clean.
Can you mix baking soda and Dawn dish soap?
Yes, you can mix baking soda and Dawn dish soap to create a cleaning paste. However, do not add vinegar to this mixture. The reaction between vinegar, baking soda, and dish soap can be toxic and ineffective for cleaning.
