Cleaning hard water stains off a fiberglass tub/shower surround can be accomplished with a few simple steps. Here's a guide to help you through the process:
Note: Before you start cleaning, ensure proper ventilation and use appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and eye protection.
Materials you'll need:
- White vinegar or lemon juice
- Baking soda
- Non-abrasive sponge or soft cloth
- Plastic spray bottle
- Water
- Microfiber cloth or towel
Step-by-step process:
Prepare the Cleaning Solution: Fill a plastic spray bottle with equal parts white vinegar or lemon juice and water. Both white vinegar and lemon juice contain mild acids that help break down hard water stains without damaging fiberglass.
Spray the Solution: Liberally spray the cleaning solution onto the hard water stains covering the fiberglass tub/shower surround. Ensure all the stained areas are thoroughly saturated.
Let it Sit: Allow the cleaning solution to sit on the stains for about 10-15 minutes. This gives the mild acid time to dissolve the mineral deposits from the hard water.
Scrub Gently: Use a non-abrasive sponge or a soft cloth to gently scrub the stains. If necessary, you can also sprinkle a little baking soda on the sponge to enhance its cleaning power. Avoid using abrasive pads or brushes, as they can scratch the fiberglass surface.
Rinse Thoroughly: Once you've scrubbed the stains, rinse the entire tub/shower surround with clean water. Use a handheld showerhead or a bucket of water to rinse off the cleaning solution.
Dry and Buff: After rinsing, use a clean microfiber cloth or towel to dry the fiberglass surface. This will help prevent water spots and streaks, leaving your tub/shower surround looking clean and shiny.
Inspect and Repeat (if necessary): Check if all the hard water stains have been removed. If you notice any remaining stains, you can repeat the cleaning process as needed until the fiberglass is entirely clean.
Maintenance and Prevention: To keep hard water stains at bay, consider using a squeegee or a microfiber cloth to wipe down the tub/shower surround after each use. This will help prevent mineral deposits from accumulating and make future cleaning easier.
Remember to always spot-test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area of the fiberglass surface before using it on the entire tub/shower surround. This will ensure that the cleaning solution doesn't cause any discoloration or damage to the fiberglass.