How To Clean Build-Up And Stains From Fiber Glass Shower Pans
If you have a fiberglass shower pan, it needs to be maintained regularly fiberglass is a type of reinforced plastic constructed from glass fibers embedded in resin coated in a shiny gel. Homeowners choose fiberglass shower pans because they are easier to install than tiles, but the pans can get dirty after much use. Here are tips to clean buildup and stains from fiberglass shower pans.
Prepare to Work
For this project, you need:
- disposable gloves
- microfiber cloth or other soft rag
- soft-bristled toothbrush or non-abrasive sponge
- nylon scrubber
- baking soda
- nail polish remover (optional)
- grease-cutting soap
- acid based cleaner (optional)
- bleach
- white automotive polish
- white automotive cream wax
Determine the kind of buildup on the shower pan. Yellow buildup is commonly mineral buildup from calcium or magnesium from water evaporation. Bluish green or orange build up indicates copper or iron deposits. Dark and oily buildup is likely from soap scum.
Remove Stains
Make a paste from one-quarter cup of baking soda and water. Scrub the stain with the sponge or toothbrush.
Let the baking soda stay on the area for about half an hour, then rinse with warm water. Dry the shower pan with a cloth.
Remove dark stains with a nail polish remover. Dampen a cloth in the remover, and rub it on the stain until it disappears.
Clean Soap Scum
Clean soap scum with a grease-cutting soap and a nylon scrubber. Rub the soap on the soap scum, and let it stand for several minutes.
Use a cloth to wipe the soap .If the soap scum won't come off this way, use a soap scrubber with a sponge attachment.
Clean Scale Build up
Open a window to ventilate. Spray an acid-based cleaner on calcium and magnesium buildup. An example of an acid-based cleaner is CLR Bath and Kitchen Cleaner.This is a gentle cleaner that won't scratch the surface.
Apply a bleach product, such as Bar Keeper's Friend, using a sponge to iron or copper deposits. Leave it on the buildup several minutes, then rinse.
Disinfect the area with bleach and water in a spray bottle.Leave the bleach on the shower pan for about thirty seconds, then rinse.
Fix Scratches
After the shower pan dries, apply white automotive polish with a cloth to scratches. Leave the polish on for the suggested manufacturer's time.
Remove the polish using the automotive wax. A coat of wax will also help prevent future stains.
You don't have to replace the shower pan because it's dirty. If you still can't get the pan clean after following these tips, or you don't trust your skill, contact a cleaning service like Deep Cleaning.