Do you find yourself battling back the buildup of soap scum and mildew growing in the shower door track? Deep down, do you dread opening your shower doors to a nasty surprise? Well, fear not; with just a bit of time and effort, you can learn how to clean shower door tracks.
Here we’ll cover easy-to-follow strategies on how to clean shower door tracks that won’t damage or corrode any surfaces. With these tips up your sleeve, getting squeaky clean shower doors will be a breeze!
You’d be surprised how quickly shower door tracks can collect an invisible layer of grime and soap scum. As part of your weekly cleaning routine, it’s important to take some time to give your shower door track a deep clean – without this ‘cleaning 101’ task, the build up of bacteria and unpleasant odors will start to accumulate.
Here we’ll explain the best step-by-step method for tackling this tricky but essential job.
Why is It Important to Clean Shower Door Tracks?
1. To Avoid the Buildup of Soap Scum, Bacteria, and Mold
Soap scum, bacteria, and mold can accumulate on the tracks of your shower door over time. This buildup can become difficult to remove if not taken care of regularly. Cleaning the tracks prevents this accumulation from happening in the first place.
2. To Enhance the Lifespan of Your Shower Door
If left unclean, the buildup of soap scum, bacteria, and mold can corrode the metal tracks of your shower door. This corrosion will eventually cause the door frame to weaken and break down. Regular cleaning will help keep your shower door in good condition for years to come.
3. To Improve Your Showering Experience
When you step into the shower, the last thing you want is to feel slimy residue on your feet or legs. Taking the time to regularly clean your shower door tracks will keep them free of any potentially harmful bacteria and soap scum, giving you a comfortable and safe showering experience.
4. To Keep Your Bathroom Clean and Sanitary
Cleaning your shower door tracks will help keep your bathroom clean and sanitary. By removing the buildup of soap scum, bacteria, and mold you can help prevent these contaminants from spreading throughout the rest of your home.
Keeping your shower door tracks clean is a simple but effective way to ensure that everyone in your household stays healthy. Also, it will make your bathroom look much nicer and more inviting. By investing a bit of time in regularly cleaning your shower door tracks, you can ensure that they stay germ-free for years to come.
How to Clean Shower Door Tracks in 6 Easy Steps
Step 1: Gather All The Materials
The very first step is to gather all the materials you need for this job. You’ll need a bucket, an old toothbrush, dish soap, baking soda, white vinegar, a scrub brush, and an old rag. Also, you have to make sure you have protective gloves and eyewear to protect yourself while cleaning.
Step 2: Remove Debris From The Track
Using an old toothbrush, carefully remove any debris or grime from the track of your shower door. Make sure to pay attention to all the corners and grooves as they tend to accumulate more dirt. You should also take out any hair that may have gotten stuck in the track.
Step 3: Make A Cleaning Solution
In a bucket, combine warm water, baking soda, dish soap, and a few drops of white vinegar. Mix everything together until it forms an effective cleaning solution. Also make sure you wear gloves and protective eyewear while dealing with the chemical solution.
Step 4: Scrub The Track
Using your scrub brush, start to scrub the track of your shower door using the cleaning solution. Make sure to pay attention to any crevices or corners that may have been missed during Step 2. Keep scrubbing until all dirt and grime is gone.
Step 5: Rinse The Track
Once you’re done scrubbing, get an old rag and dip it in a bucket of clean water. Use the rag to rinse the track of your shower door so that all the dirt and cleaning solution are washed away. You can use a wet/dry vacuum if you need to.
Step 6: Dry The Track
Take an old cloth and dry the track of your shower door completely. Make sure to use a clean cloth as any dirt or debris that may be in the rag could cause damage to the track. Allow it to air-dry before putting the doors back in place.
And there you have it – a clean and well-maintained shower door track! By following these steps you can ensure that your shower door will stay spotless for a long time. However, if the dirt is too stubborn and not coming off with regular cleaning, then you may need to call a professional cleaner to get the job done.
Some Additional Tips to Clean Shower Door Tracks
1. Do Not Use a Rough Scrubbing Brush
While shower door tracks require some scrubbing to get them looking clean, avoid using a stiff brush as this can damage the track and cause rusting. Also make sure to avoid using any metal scrubbing pads as these can cause scratches and damage the finish of the track.
2. Use Baking Soda for a Natural Cleaner
If you’re looking for a natural cleaner to use on your shower door tracks, baking soda is an excellent choice! It will help to lift away dirt, grime and soap scum and leave your shower door tracks looking sparkling clean.
3. Rinse the Tracks and Dry Thoroughly
Once you’ve finished cleaning your shower door track, make sure to rinse off all of the cleaner residues with warm water. Then use a soft cloth or paper towel to dry the tracks thoroughly before you replace the shower door on the track. This will help to prevent any buildup of soap scum or dirt and keep your tracks looking clean for longer.
4. Consider Replacing Old Tracks
If you notice that your shower door tracks are looking worn out or rusty, then it’s time to consider replacing them with new ones. Investing in a new set of shower door tracks can make a big difference to the look and feel of your bathroom, as well as making cleaning them much easier.
Follow these tips and you’ll soon have sparkling clean shower door tracks!
With just a little bit of effort, you can enjoy having streak-free shower doors that open and close without any issues. Cleaning your shower door tracks doesn’t have to be a difficult task, so make sure to put aside some time each month to give them the attention they need. Doing this will keep them looking as good as new for years to come! Good luck with cleaning your shower door tracks!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Precautions Should I Take When Cleaning Shower Door Tracks?
When cleaning shower door tracks, it is important to use the proper protective gear. Make sure to wear gloves and safety goggles so you do not get any debris or cleaners in your eyes. Also, be sure to open nearby windows for ventilation and avoid breathing in any fumes from the cleaners used.
What Are Some Common Cleaning Solutions for Shower Door Tracks?
A common cleaning solution for shower door tracks is a mixture of baking soda and water. Baking soda is an effective natural cleaner that can break down built-up dirt and grime. Other cleaners such as vinegar, bleach, dish soap, or commercial cleaners may also be effective.
How Often Should I Clean My Shower Door Tracks?
It is recommended that shower door tracks be cleaned at least once per month to prevent build-up and keep them looking clean. However, if you have hard water or use your shower frequently, you may need to clean the tracks more often.
How Do I Clean Difficult Stains on My Shower Door Tracks?
For difficult stains, a stronger cleaning solution may be needed. A combination of baking soda and white vinegar can be used to create a paste that can be applied directly to the stain. For tough buildup or rust, a wire brush or fine-grit sandpaper can help scrub away the residue. Be sure to rinse the tracks with warm water after scrubbing and apply a protectant afterward to prevent further buildup.
Conclusion
Now you know how to clean shower door tracks! With diligence and regular maintenance, however, it is easy to keep your shower door clean and in top condition. As we have seen, there are several methods that can be used with the appropriate products to quickly remove the build-up of dirt from shower tracks.
However, it is important to note that above all else, it is best practice to clean regularly in order to prevent major buildup.
Doing this will extend the life of your shower door and keep it looking like new for longer. It may not seem like a big job at first but having a clean and hygienic shower space will give you peace of mind in times where this aspect of sanitation may be viewed more seriously.
So why not take some time this weekend to spruce up your door frames? After all – a bit of elbow grease now could save you money and time down the road!
