Keeping chrome bathroom fixtures sparkling clean can be a challenge. With constant exposure to water and soap scum, surfaces like faucets, showerheads and towel bars can quickly lose their luster. While specialty cleaners from the store promise to remove buildup and restore shine, sometimes just a few simple ingredients and techniques can do the trick.
Page Contents
Why Keep Chrome Fixtures Clean?
Beyond just looking dirty, soap scum and hard water stains on chrome can lead to corrosion and pitting over time. This damage is usually irreversible. That’s why it’s important to clean fixtures regularly. Here are some key reasons to stay on top of chrome maintenance:
- Prevents mineral deposit buildup – Hard water contains high levels of calcium and magnesium. These minerals leave behind white scale on fixtures.
- Removes soap scum – Everyday use leads to layers of soap film, especially in the shower.
- Restores shine – A buildup of grime makes chrome look dull and dingy.
- Avoids corrosion – Water spots and soap scum trap moisture against the chrome, causing pitting.
- Sanitizes – Wiping fixtures down kills bacteria that can thrive in moist, soapy environments.
- Extends life – Regular cleaning keeps fixtures looking like new for longer.
How Often Should Fixtures Be Cleaned?
For bathrooms that see daily use, chrome fixtures should be cleaned:
- Faucets – 1-2 times per week
- Showerheads – 1-2 times per month
- Shower walls and doors – 1-2 times per week
- Towel bars – 1-2 times per month
For lesser-used bathrooms, every other week is sufficient for most surfaces. Any buildup should be removed as soon as it’s noticed to prevent permanent damage.
Materials Needed for Cleaning Chrome
These basic supplies are useful for tackling most chrome cleaning tasks:
- Microfiber cloths – Won’t scratch delicate surfaces
- Old toothbrush – For scrubbing crevices and small areas
- Mild liquid dish soap – Cuts through grease and soap scum
- White vinegar – Removes hard water deposits
- Baking soda – Gentle abrasive to polish away tarnish
- Baby oil – Restores shine
- Spray bottle – For applying homemade cleaners
Best Cleaners for Chrome Surfaces
While special chrome cleaners and polishes are available, the ingredients to make effective DIY versions are already in most people’s pantries. Here are some top homemade mixtures:
| Cleaner | Ingredients | Method |
|---|---|---|
| Dish Soap | 1-2 drops mild dish soap in 1 cup warm water | Apply with soft cloth, rinse and dry. |
| Vinegar | Equal parts white vinegar and warm water | Spray on and wipe off with microfiber cloth. |
| Baking Soda | Make a paste with water. Can also sprinkle on damp cloth. | Gently rub paste over chrome. Rinse and dry. |
| Baby Oil | Couple drops on a soft cloth | Rub a thin layer over chrome. Wipe off excess. |
For best results, clean chrome with dish soap and water first. Rinse thoroughly. Follow up with baking soda paste or vinegar spray to remove stubborn deposits. Finish by buffing with a clean, dry cloth to shine. Baby oil can provide extra polish.
Techniques for Cleaning Specific Fixtures
Faucets
Faucets attract soap scum, water spots and finger prints. For thorough cleaning:
- Rinse with warm water to remove surface gunk.
- Scrub with dish soap and toothbrush. Get into grooves and around knobs.
- Rinse again and dry with a soft cloth.
- Remove water spots by rubbing with a cloth dampened with vinegar.
- Shine and polish with a dry microfiber cloth.
Showerheads
To clean showerheads clogged with mineral deposits:
- Fill a plastic bag with equal parts vinegar and warm water. Secure bag around showerhead with a rubber band.
- Let the showerhead soak for 1-2 hours. This allows vinegar to dissolve buildup.
- Remove bag and rinse showerhead thoroughly.
- Use a toothbrush to scrub lingering deposits.
- Rinse and dry with a soft cloth.
Glass Shower Doors
For simple cleaning of glass shower doors:
- Spray glass with vinegar-water mixture. Let set 5 minutes.
- Use a razor blade to gently scrape off any hardened water spots.
- Pour a quarter-sized dollop of dish soap on a damp microfiber cloth.
- Wipe down the inside and outside of the doors.
- Rinse doors with warm water and squeegee off.
For a deeper clean, make a baking soda paste. Apply to glass doors and let set 15 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.
Towel Bars
Follow these steps to clean gunky towel bars:
- Remove towels and wash in laundry.
- Spray towel bars liberally with vinegar and water solution.
- Let set 5-10 minutes to penetrate gunk.
- Scrub with an old toothbrush.
- Rinse with warm water and dry with a clean cloth.
- Buff with microfiber cloth to restore shine.
Preventative Maintenance
Regular cleaning keeps chrome bathroom fixtures sparkling, but there are also some simple habits that help prevent buildup:
- Wipe fixtures dry after bathing to avoid water spots.
- Use a squeegee on shower doors to prevent soap scum.
- Open windows during and after showering to allow ventilation.
- Clean glass shower doors 1-2 times per week.
- Remove splatters from faucet and sink right away.
- Use bathmats to keep moisture off floors and chrome fixtures.
When to Call a Professional
For chrome that’s severely neglected, professional help may be needed. Signs it’s time to call a specialist include:
- Thick layers of calcium or limescale.
- Corrosion and pitted surfaces.
- Permanent water staining.
- Visible damage to the chrome finish.
- Fixtures that are loose or no longer functioning.
- Inability to access all areas that need cleaning.
Professionals have commercial-strength cleaners and tools to remove stubborn buildup and repair damaged fixtures. For heavy limescale deposits, electrolysis cleaning may be an option. This process uses mild electrical current to dissolve mineral deposits.
Conclusion
While it takes some regular effort, keeping chrome bathroom fixtures clean doesn’t require harsh chemicals or expensive products. Using natural ingredients like vinegar and baking soda, along with good cleaning habits, helps maintain the shine and prevent damage. Focus on frequently used fixtures like faucets and shower doors. For cleaning jobs that seem beyond DIY methods, contact a professional for assistance.