Shower base maintenance
Cleaning Acrylic Shower Base
Cleaning your acrylic base weekly can prevent common stains such as water spots, mildew, and calcium stains from developing. Try to get into the habit of cleaning the base with an all-natural solution or a safe commercial solution every five to seven days. This will also prevent the base from turning yellow.
Preparation
When cleaning acrylic surfaces, try to avoid harsh cleaners containing ammonia, acetone, or other acidic ingredients. Cleaners will usually have a list of surfaces meant to clean, so always check the label beforehand.
Prepare Your Cleaning Solution
There are several commercial cleaners that you can use on your acrylic shower base. You can also create your own homemade solution if you prefer. One great solution that works on acrylic surfaces is a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. To create this solution, mix one cup of vinegar with one cup of water and two tablespoons of baking soda. Next, pour the solution into a spray bottle. If the solution is too thick, add more water to it.
Apply The Cleaning Solution To The Base
It’s always a good idea to do a quick spot test before applying new cleaners to your acrylic base, just to make sure that they are safe to use. If you are pleased with the test result, spray the cleaning solution onto the entire base.
Be sure to apply additional coverage to the areas around the shower drain and the base’s edges. These are places where water may
accumulate, and as a result, they may harbor mold and other grime. Allow the solution to sit on the base for about two to three minutes to penetrate the surface.
If there are stains on the shower base, allow the solution to sit for about five to seven minutes. If there are tough stains on the shower base, take a tablespoon of baking soda and pour it directly on top of the stains. Next, take your soft-bristled brush or a disposable toothbrush and scrub it away.
Gently Scrub The Shower Base
Next, take your soft bristle brush, and starting at the base, gently scrub the shower base. Work your way around the base’s perimeter and use circular motions to lift any grime or debris that may have developed. Once you have cleaned the edges, work your way into the middle of the shower base, and be sure to scrub around the drain. If there are small nooks and crannies within the design of your shower base, take a disposable toothbrush to gently scrub in between these areas.
You’ll want to stay away from harsh scrubbing pads, abrasive cloths, and rough sponges as they may scratch the base. Never use steel wool on your acrylic base, as it will definitely scratch the surface. If you don’t have a soft bristle brush, you can also use terry cloth or microfiber to clean the base.
Rinse The Cleaning Solution Off
Once the base is clean and free of stains, turn on the shower and rinse it off. It’s also helpful to use a cup to help rinse off the base in areas where the shower water may not hit directly. Continue rinsing until the base and drain are free of the cleaning solution. If you notice any additional stains at this time, reapply the cleaning solution and allow it to sit for another five to seven minutes.
Let The Shower Base Air-Dry
After rinsing the shower base, allow it to air-dry for the next four to eight hours before you use it again. It’s also helpful to open up a
window or a door and allow a little ventilation. This will help the base dry out faster.