Whether your home is new with stylish features, or in need of updating, the bathroom is one room that needs lots of attention. That’s because it’s one of the most frequently used rooms in the house. It can also be one of the most challenging to keep clean. These problems can take your shower from clean and sparkly to dull and dreary. Cleanliness aside, outdated fixtures and finishes can also keep your shower from looking modern and sleek.
If you want to make an old shower look new again, there are a number of steps you can take. Some are quick and easy that you can handle in an hour or two. There are others that will take a little more effort and time. And for those ready to take on an even bigger project, some may require a shower overhaul. Regardless of your budget or the amount of time you have, there are several ways to help make an old shower look new again.
Clean the Shower
If it sounds simple, it probably is. Approach your bathroom project by giving the shower a good cleaning.
Fiberglass Showers
Because soap scum frequently builds up if not properly maintained, fiberglass showers often get dirty easily. There are a number of options you can try, including many different commercial products that are readily available. You will, however, want to avoid abrasive scouring pads or products, as these can cause scratches and damage.
As an alternative to commercial cleaning products, you can also make your own with items you probably already have. Start by mixing water and baking soda until it’s paste-like and then apply to the areas you want to clean. Let it stand for a couple of hours and then rinse off with warm water.
You can also use vinegar to clean your shower. Begin by soaking a cleaning cloth with vinegar and then cover the stained area with it. Leave it on for an hour or so and then clean the area with warm soapy water.
Also, if your shower has dark stains, try hydrogen peroxide to help remove them. Start by placing several layers of clean white cloths over the stained area and then pour the peroxide on top. Let this soak overnight and then rinse clean in the morning.
Shower Tile
Cleaning shower tiles can also be done with products similar to what you’d use on fiberglass. Cleaning tile, though, may take a bit more work since grout can be difficult to clean. Begin by pre-treating the surfaces with a water-vinegar solution. Then use a baking soda paste and scrub with a stiff bristle brush.
Once you’ve loosened up the dirt on the tiles, you can use scouring pads to scrub the surface clean. Also, if there are areas with mold and mildew, reapply the cleaners and scrub more as needed.
As with fiberglass, baking soda-water mixtures are also great for cleaning tiles, and commercial cleaning products are also available.
Whatever type of cleaning product you use, be sure to rinse off any excess soap and solution. Do this using hot, clean water. Follow this step by drying the tiles. Doing this regularly will help prevent mold, mildew and soap scum.
You can also help keep your shower clean by rinsing and drying it after each use to help prevent water stains and other build-up.
Clean the Shower Glass
If your shower has a glass door, keeping it clean and sparkling can also help make an old shower look new again. There are several tips and tricks you can follow from vinegar and water cleaning solutions up to more power options such as commercial cleaners and dozens of other homemade solutions. Be sure to grab a shower squeegee too the next time you’re at the hardware store or shopping online. Once your shower is clean, using a squeegee after every shower will help extend the life of your cleaning job by cutting down on soap scum buildup.
Update the Shower Fixtures
Cleaning the shower and glass enclosure are the quickest and most inexpensive steps to make an old shower look new again. However, if you have a little more time and money you can also update the showerhead, faucet and other shower fixtures. You can shop for these online or your local home improvement store. Wherever you shop, you will find hundreds of styles and finishes to meet your specific tastes. Replacing a showerhead or faucet is something you can probably do yourself. Just make sure the shower faucets are turned off so you don’t drench yourself. It’s not necessary to turn the water off altogether.
Give the Shower Hardware an Upgrade
You can also make an old shower look new again by updating the frame (if your shower has one), hardware and other accessories. Many of these items are also available online and through your local home improvement store, if you want to tackle the project yourself. If it’s more than you want to do on your own, your local shower door company is also a great resource.
Hardware and accessories are also available in an assortment of styles and finishes that can match the faucet and showerhead.
Go for a Brand New Shower Door
If your budget allows, replacing your shower with a new glass enclosure is a great way to give the bathroom a new look. Remember, the type of shower that works for your bathroom will depend on the size and shape of the space available. However, if you’re up for a full remodel and renovation, the sky’s pretty much the limit. Just know that’s a job that adds significant time and expense.
If a new shower door is in your future, Glass.com can help. You can search for qualified installers right in your area who can certainly assist in helping you find just the right shower door for your unique tastes and budget.
2 Responses
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