Clean Soap Scum/Mildew from Natural Stone & Grout in Bathroom Shower
How do I clean soap scum and mildew from the natural stone and grout in my bathroom shower?
For tough bathroom soap scum and mildew DuPont™ StoneTech® Professional KlenzAll™ Cleaner is an excellent solution because it will lift difficult stains without etching or damaging the stone surface. Use a sponge or microfiber cloth to apply cleaner to the surface, rubbing soiled areas. For the toughest stains, try a soft bristle brush. Mildew in the grout is sometimes hard to get rid of and may require a 50/50 solution of water and bleach if any mildew remains after you’ve used the DuPont™ StoneTech® Professional KlenzAll™. Be sure to rinse the area thoroughly with water when you are finished with this process. After cleaning, it is important to seal the area to keep the tile and grout looking good long term. Wait one hour after rinsing the stone surfaces before applying sealer. Seal with a water-based sealer tough enough to withstand the amount of use your shower gets, such as DuPont™ StoneTech® Heavy Duty Sealer.
Once you’ve gone through the effort to remove the stubborn soap scum and mildew from your shower, routine maintenance will be the key to maintaining the integrity of the stone. Clean frequently using DuPont™ StoneTech® Professional Stone & Tile Cleaner which is a stone-safe cleaner for everyday use. Avoid bathroom cleaners that are not specifically recommended for use on stone because they will etch and damage the surface.
Every few months, take a moment to notice how the water beads when your shower is wet. If water beads easily on the surface, you’re in good shape. If not, it may be time to reseal your stone. For more information about sealing and knowing when to seal, see our blog entitled, “When to Apply Sealer to Stone Surfaces.”
Important Note: Always read product labels entirely before using. Use only as directed. Test in small inconspicuous area to determine required dilution and results.