The wrong products can make a simple cleaning task ten times harder than it needs to be, which is why it's important to choose wisely.
When it comes to cleaning shower tiles and grout in particular, it can be tricky to remove the build-up of soap scum, grime, and limescale that has a tendency to stick to the surface.
I've always been curious about how professional cleaners achieve such a perfect finish, so I decided to ask them exactly what they use. To find out what they said, keep reading – these products will help you clean smarter, not harder.
Article continues below1. White vinegar and water
If you’d rather take a natural approach to bathroom cleaning, Kelly Moore, founder of Cleaning with Meaning, recommends a mix of white vinegar and water. As a professional cleaner, she says it does a “brilliant” job at cutting through limescale and soap scum.
Vinegar contains acetic acid, which reacts with minerals such as limescale and helps dissolve them on contact. It’s a natural and eco-friendly method that is also very cost-effective, with large re-fill bottles costing as little as £10.
If you choose to buy it undiluted, mix one part vinegar with three parts water and transfer it into a spray bottle to apply to your tiles. Alternatively, you can buy a pre-diluted version that’s ready for cleaning (like the one below).
Kelly says, "I always recommend choosing plant-based, non-toxic and preferably refillable cleaners. These will get washed down the drain and into our waterways, so the gentler on the planet, the better."
If you live in an area with hard water, you may also want to invest in a water softener as a long-term solution.
Warning: avoid using vinegar on natural stone as it can cause damage.
This multi-purpose spray can be used for all types of cleaning, from descaling shower heads to removing stains on fabric.
Kelly Moore is the Founder of Cleaning With Meaning, a Kent-based eco-cleaning business committed to delivering exceptional cleaning services without toxic chemicals or single-use plastics.
2. Bicarbonate of soda
Kelly Moore recommends bicarbonate of soda for removing stubborn grime. Its alkalinity helps break down grease (like soap scum) making it easier to wipe away, while its slightly gritty texture can help lightly scrub your tiles.
Mix three parts powder with one part water to form a paste, then work it into your tiles and grout using a cleaning brush, and rinse it away.
Bicarbonate of soda can be used after the previously mentioned vinegar mix, but make sure the vinegar has been rinsed away; otherwise, these two ingredients will counteract each other.
This baking soda will leave your shower tiles feeling fresh and clean, without the need for harsh chemicals. It can also be used for cooking and gardening.
3. De-scaler
For those who prefer a ready-made solution for tackling limescale buildup, you can opt for a specialised descaler instead. John Zentveld, a cleaning expert from HG, explains that the acidic nature of these products dissolves the mineral deposits in limescale.
“Limescale forms when hard water evaporates or is heated, often found on taps, shower heads and shower tiles. To use [a de-scaler], simply spray the product on, leave it to work for up to five minutes, and then rinse off," he says.
Plant-based and phosphate-free, this eco-friendly descaler removes limescale from showers, kettles, dishwashers, and more.
John Zentveld works at HG International, a leading specialist in household cleaning and maintenance solutions. He is a cleaning and mould expert with clear advice for everyday households.
4. Mould remover
If you need to remove mould in your bathroom, John Zentveld recommends using a dedicated mould remover. These products contain biocides, such as bleach or hydrogen peroxide, that kill the spores at the source.
This approach will prevent mould from growing back – unlike regular cleaners, which only remove surface-level grime.
This mould remover spray removes stains in as little as 30 minutes and can be used on bathroom tiles, grout, walls and seals.
What's the best technique for cleaning shower tiles?
Ever wondered how professional cleaners achieve that perfectly polished finish? Kelly Moore explains her secret:
- Let your cleaner sit for a few minutes to loosen the grime
- Scrub the shower gently with a soft brush or toothbrush
- Work from the top down so the dirty water doesn’t drip onto clean areas
- Rinse and wipe using a damp microfibre cloth
- Use a squeegee (like this shower squeegee from Amazon) after every shower to prevent limescale building up
Whether you're looking for a home-made or ready-mixed solution, there are plenty of affordable ways to clean your shower tiles – and it's relatively simple to get a professional result yourself.
For more expert advice, read our feature that explains whether electric shower cleaners worth it or learn the best way to get rid of black mould in your bathroom.
